Have you ever wanted to host a few people for dinner and were not sure where to start? I can help.
I throw a few parties a year, but I’m far from the host with the most. That’s why I polled a few friends for what’s on their list of party ideas and ways to avoid fouls that a good host would never commit.
GUEST LIST: Send Invitations – 4 Weeks Prior
Start by selecting guests who will naturally complement one another in conversation and energy. A successful dinner party isn’t just about filling seats; it’s about creating a dynamic where guests feel comfortable, included and engaged.
- Ask friends for diet restrictions, allergies and preferences if you’re unsure
- Follow up and check with anyone who hasn’t confirmed after the first week.
ORGANIZE: Theme and menu – 4 Weeks Prior
Start by choosing a theme that naturally narrows your decisions. Consider a fun activity like a movie, an incoming seasonal night or prepare your entree in the cuisine theme you know best. For example: (1) Italian Night or (2) Wizard of Oz movie night
From there, build a menu that feels familiar and you can rely on. Make dishes that you’ve made before and are comfortable with. If you want to try a new dish, limit it to one dish like a side or dessert. It is always helpful to be able to make it a day ahead.. you know, in case, wink, wink.
Menu examples:
- (1)Tossed Salad, Hearty Italian Lasagna, Baked Pineapple, Italian bread and Tiramisu
- (2) Auntie Em’s Garden Salad, Yellow Brick Road Roasted Chicken and an Emerald Elixir (Grasshopper Cocktail)
Plan for an appetizer while you welcome your guests, enjoy a batch cocktail or punch while dinner finishes, so you don’t have to make many individual drinks and guests can help themselves. Remember to have on hand water bottles, mixers and different options for your crowd.
YOUR SPACE: Table set up – 2 Weeks Prior
Time to shift from ideas to execution! You want to be able to enjoy this time and not get stressed out.
Finalize your layout of how the dining table will be arranged. Maybe you’ll need to shift an extra chair to another area or maybe you need to borrow a chair… no worries. Do a trial run.
Decide where guests will sit. Keep it mixed up. Chatty Cathy together with Shy Sally at one end and divide familiar friends so everyone can get acquainted with new friends.
This is an ideal time to gather your theme-based linens, extra lighting like candles or Edison bulbs, centerpieces and choose music.
Use this time for a light reset of your home. You certainly don’t need to deep clean, but tackle clutter, organize surfaces and complete any small fixes.
THE WEEK OF: Grocery shopping and preparation
Timing your shopping is just as important as what you buy. Organize your list by category: produce, dairy, pantry. Check your kitchen for ingredients you already have to avoid overbuying.
7 Days Out: You can shop early for shelf-stable items, beverages and shop later in the week for fresh produce and proteins.
2 Days Out: Set the dinner table, prep any early food. Create a beverage station to eliminate traffic jams. Make extra “special” ice (I always forget to do this!) and pull out serving dishes and utensils.
1 Day Out: Prep dishes that can be done a day before, like a charcuterie board. Make a list of cooking times and put things in order so you know when to begin items to have them all finished at the same time. Shop for last minute items. Make the dessert if you can. Stock your bathroom products and freshen area.
Today’s the Day!: Execute your menu items in order from your starting time, serving 1 hour after guests begin arriving.
30 Minutes Out: Fill beverage table, turn on lighting and music, put out appetizers and napkins.
If people do not know each other, make sure you introduce them when they arrive. Relax and enjoy!
