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A dinner party can be a fun and rewarding experience that creates and strengthens friendships. However, any experienced host will be all too familiar with the stress involved in playing host. A successful dinner party requires careful planning and impeccable execution, so adequate preparation can mean the difference between an enjoyable evening and a stressful debacle. Here are five tips to ensure that your next dinner party goes off without a hitch.
Choose a style
Whether it's a large soire or a more intimate affair, choosing a style will help streamline your party and provide your menu with greater focus. The possibilities are endless, so try to be creative. Will it be a cozy and relaxed gathering, a sophisticated celebration, or high-tempo booze-fueled cocktail party? You might even consider giving your party a theme based on a specific region, country or bygone era to endow it with an extra novelty factor. When appropriate, choose a dress code to compliment the style of your party.
Menu
When deciding on a menu, it's important not to overexert yourself. If you feel that you are too inexperienced or may be stretched for time and resources, try keeping the menu as simple as possible. It's always beneficial to do a trial-run a few days before on any dishes that you are not comfortable cooking. You should also be sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time whenever possible, by chopping vegetables and placing precise measurements in containers before you cook.
When writing the menu, try selecting dishes that suit your party's theme. If you’re having trouble deciding, seasonal food is always a safe bet, so consider choosing dishes to match the time of year, like a warm winter broth or a cool summer salad.
Seating arrangements
The right seating arrangement can create a pleasant atmosphere and help keep conversation flowing. When deciding where each guest should sit, try choosing a seating arrangement that will make for interesting and diverse conversation. Seat strangers close to each other; those who don't get along should be kept far apart. In the cocktail area, place clusters of chairs close to each other to promote lively conversation.
Music
Music is a key aspect of a successful dinner party, which can help set the tone for the evening. Great dinner music can enhance the ambiance and compliment certain dishes, so select your songs strategically. Of course, you'll need to make sure the volume level is kept to a reasonable level, so as not to overwhelm the conversation. It's always useful to create a playlist ahead of time.
Enjoy yourself
Remember above all else that — at the end of the day — a dinner party is all about having fun. While you may face some challenges along the way, try not to let the stress of hosting get to you. If you relax, your guests will be able to relax, too --nothing creates tension at a party quite like a stressed host. A dinner party is about having fun, not perfection, so expect a few minor problems and don't let them ruin your night.
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