Whether it’s a last-minute decision or a well-planned affair, having friends over for a dinner party should mean good food and great conversation. It doesn’t have to be fussy to be fun. If you’re cooking, make recipes you’re comfortable with—or let someone else take care of the food altogether. Set out a few flowers, seat people for easy chatter and cheers to a night of friendship!
do not:
☛ Attempt to try that new recipe you’ve been eyeing. Even if it looks simple or sounds like it’s a guaranteed success, stick with what you know. You’ll feel much more comfortable in the kitchen this way and be able to enjoy your guests. And you’ll know how every dish will turn out … a huge bonus! If you really want to try a new dish, test it out with your family at least once before party night.
☛ Create a menu with off-the-wall items. Unless you know you have a completely adventurous foodie crowd, choose dishes that will appeal to a wide range of palates. Note any food allergies or special diets, but don’t feel like you have to be a short order cook. Just make sure everyone can eat something.
☛ Rely on guests for anything other than showing up. It’s common courtesy to bring a bottle of wine or champagne, or something small to munch on when showing up for a dinner party, but don’t assume your guests will. No one will be happy if they are limited to one glass of wine because you’re a few bottles short. It’s always better to overbuy.
☛ Let guests help you clean up. And don’t worry about doing it yourself! Guests should just be able to relax and not worry about using elbow grease on your casserole dish. Put the dishes in the sink, leave them for later and enjoy your friends.
do:
☛ Make the table setting special. If you use the same place mats, napkins and dishes from weeknight dinners with the kids, it will feel like any other night. Break out the breakables! Unpack the never-used china, use glasses you reserve for ‘company’ and set out festive napkins. Special doesn’t have to be fancy; a casual vibe still can be maintained by adding more laid-back touches to ‘tone down’ the niceties. Put fresh flowers in multiple small arrangements down the center of the table, and make sure the blooms aren’t so high they block conversation.
☛ Create a mood. Make a playlist of soft background music that fits the theme or vibe of the night. A little candlelight is always a nice touch, but make sure candles are out of the way of guests to prevent mishaps. Dim the lights a little lower than normal.
☛ Mix up couples and friends. Most people understand they might get separated from their best friend or spouse at these types of gatherings to diversify the conversation. If you know everyone well enough, seat people next to others with common interests. Spouses can be seated across from each other instead of next to. It’s a good idea to serve appetizers and dessert somewhere other than at the dining table, so everyone gets a chance to mingle.
☛ Prepare ahead. Choose recipes that can be partially prepared ahead of time. It will mean a world of difference when you’re cooking the night of. And it’s not a disappointment to guests if the appetizer or dessert is not homemade. Order items from a popular local restaurant, and guests will enjoy getting to sample the menu.