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5 Secrets to Hosting a Successful Dinner Party

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The ideal dinner party isn’t the one you have when everything goes smoothly. It’s the one where you get to know your friends and family on a deeper level than at any other time. You learn about their hopes, dreams, fears, and ambitions. If you want to create a memorable experience for your guests, you should also prepare yourself mentally and emotionally to host a gruelling evening of small talk and obligatory pleasantries. 

The tricky thing about throwing a dinner party is that everyone expects it to be easy. They want it to be relaxing and care-free. Instead, invite your closest friends over on one of the most stressful evenings of the week and ask them to contribute something meaningful in exchange for food and wine—and they won’t even complain about the cost or length of their stay. Here are five tips for hosting a successful dinner party:

1. Plan ahead and make a list of everything you'll need

Planning ahead can make things a lot easier. For example, if you have your menu planned in advance, you won't have to worry about cooking during the party. In addition to that, you might even be able to get some of your dishes done before guests arrive. If that sounds like too much work for you, invite friends over a few days before the party and cook together! Make a list of everything you'll need for the party.

If there's anything specific that needs to be on the list that isn't already covered elsewhere in this article, put it down here. You should include items like plates, utensils, napkins (preferably cloth), drinks, food and drink options for each course, water for all guests (with ice), condiments (ketchup and mustard), toothpicks and toothpaste should at least be part of the set-up.

2. Choose a theme for your party

When it comes to dinner parties, a theme is a great way to add some fun and creativity. Themed events work for everything from birthdays to baby showers to anniversaries. The possibilities are endless! From bold and bright colours to elegant pastels, there is a theme for every personality. 

Themed parties are all the rage these days, and there's no better way to have a good time with your friends than by throwing one. There is something for everyone whether you're looking forward to it or trying out new ideas!  

You could go full blown procedural sci-fi like in Star Wars (or even Holstice), stay at home on Mars where it feels like nothing can hurt us anymore; but if we want some suggestions from this side of things then how about Nike’s “Just Do It” theme which will undoubtedly make every guest feel inspired?

Themed parties are a great way to bring together different interests. If you're looking for something fun, then why not choose the theme of your choice! The impactful and memorable experience will be sure not disappoint even if it's just an ordinary night with friends or family members.

3. Set the table with coordinating colours and decorations

The table is the most important part of any dinner party. It’s where all the action happens, so make sure you don’t leave it to chance.  To set the tone for a fun and festive occasion, you should use coordinating colours or decorations. For example if your table is red with white polka-dots it will look especially cute! 

You can also try adding some matching accessories such as napkins that have dots on them too (or add instant visual appeal by using oval shaped plates). The important thing here though isn’t just matchy matches but instead making sure everything has its own individual style so there isn't one dominant feature at all times – which would probably make any party Central Jerseyites sick after seeing how much stuff is. 

If you want your guests to remember your dinner party, you need to make a memorable first impression with a stylish and coordinated table setting.

4. Make sure you have enough seating for your guests

You can't host a party without enough seating! Make sure you have an extra place for everyone who'll be coming over, especially if they're bringing food. As daunting as it seems, this might not be the most difficult thing to do. When you invite guests to your home, they might want to bring their significant other or a friend to help them feel less awkward.

Many people might think it's polite or acceptable to sit in another room while someone else is talking but this isn’t true – no matter how busy things get at home (or even worse: before!) don’t forget that there should always remain space set aside where visitors may stay during any given gathering.

You don't want your guests to be uncomfortable, so make sure they have enough seating. The more people that are sitting in a room. Add chairs and hay bales for those who might need them!

5. Serve delicious food and drinks that everyone will enjoy

Food and drinks are the most important part of any dinner party, but you’re not expected to serve anything that takes a lot of time to make. Choose the menu for your party and stick to it throughout the evening. This will keep your dinner party from turning into a culinary disaster. 

If you want to serve an alcoholic beverage, pick something that complements your menu and feels appropriate for the occasion. Think about what kind of foods people might like to have with their drink—wine goes really well with soup or salad—and pick a wine that will match up nicely. 

Also make sure your guests have plenty of options at their disposal when it comes to food and beverages before they arrive. Some people may prefer coffee while others might want tea, so be prepared!

Planning a party can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If you focus on creating a delicious and varied menu, you’ll be well on your way to throwing a fantastic bash that your guests will love. And if you need help with anything from menu planning to hiring a private chef, we recommend Forty Feathers. With over ten years of experience in the catering business, they know how to make sure your party is a success. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next shindig today!

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