Hosting a party and not really sure where to start with preparations? No worries, we’ve got you covered! Read on for six super tips for throwing a memorable dinner party – sans stress!
Consider the ‘click’ factor when creating the guest list
The highlight of many parties include funny stories and retelling the anecdotes that everyone seems to enjoy. For that to happen, everyone at your party needs to feel relaxed and comfortable, and the best way to achieve that is to select the guests that have similar interests. Dinner parties tend to have a more intimate note, so it makes sense that you’d invite a smaller group of people (four to six) that you’re almost certain they’d click. For example, you could invite a couple of close friends and maybe add one or two individuals who share their interests. Or, you could throw a dinner party for couples only. That way, there shouldn’t be any awkward moments during the night, and if there are, they’ll be able to laugh it off and have a great time regardless.
Go with tried-and-trusted recipes for the night
As much as that new recipe you saw sounds exciting, it’s best to stick with recipes you’ve tried before and know they will turn out great. If you’re experienced and confident in your culinary skills, then, by all means, go for it. However, if you don’t really have that much experience with cooking but want to make something that is easy yet delicious, go with tried-and-tested meals such as pasta and salad. Although the food is the main focus of the party, you don’t want to spend the whole party prepping the food. Cut yourself some slack and go with easy-to-make appetisers and serve some make-ahead desserts that look really fancy but whipping them up is a piece of cake.
Go with drinks that are a safe bet
As with the food, the same thing goes for your selection of beverages for the night. You may feel like you need to splurge on drinks for your dinner party, but it doesn’t have to be so. If you have no clue what to serve, wine is always a good choice, while signature cocktails are sure to wow your guests. Beer is a safe bet for a party that leans towards a casual get-together, and liquor is always good to have at hand. In case you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by choices and your guests happen to ask whether they could bring something, tell them to bring their favorite alcoholic drink and spare yourself the hassle.
Spruce up your table with pops of color
By setting the table, you’re pretty much setting the mood for the party, which is why you want to take some time to decide on your table color scheme. Lay a foundation using neutral colors with dishware, table cloths, and utensils and then add pops of color with napkins, candles, and of course, flowers. To save some time for other items on your to-do list, simply order same day flower delivery online for a perfectly effortless centerpiece. That way you’ll be getting floral arrangements that are as fresh as they can be, which in turn will help set the ambiance and fill the air with a fragrant, enchanting aroma your guests will enjoy.
Strive to create a space that is warm and inviting
When preparing your home for the upcoming event, it’s best to put yourself in the position of your guests. Think about how you’d like to be welcomed when attending a dinner party and let that be your guide for choosing the decor and rearranging your furniture. Make sure there’s a good flow in the room and consider eliminating some furnishings if your space feels crowded. Put the drinks on the drink station to free up some space on the dinner table, and make sure the room is well-lit yet cosy and intimate.
Shift mentally to the role of a party host
With all the planning and organising, it’s easy to forget that you’re the one hosting the party and not just the one preparing it. Before the guests start arriving, make sure you make that mental shift to the role of a party host. After all the hard work you’ve put into planning, you need to sit back and relax and let the party take its course throughout the evening. Slip into something that boosts your confidence – nothing too fancy, yet stylish enough to ensure you’re in good spirits for the upcoming event.
Hosting a dinner party is a great way to gather with your friends and take a break after a long week. These six tips will ensure it goes smoothly and your guests leave the party happy and content.
Chloe is a graduated journalist from Adelaide and a regular contributor to Smooth Decorator. She loves everything related to decor, aesthetic and lifestyle topics. She is also passionate about photography. Her biggest dream is to travel the whole world and take some stunning photographs of beautiful places. Beside all this, she enjoys drinking coffee and reading a beautiful book from time to time.
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