PLAN A DINNER PARTY SERIES: Part 1

 

 

When I think of the Holidays I think of time spent with friends and family. A time to gather around, share a few laughs and create beautiful memories.

 

The perfect way to create an ambiance for just that is to host a dinner party. You don't need to have a sit down 5 course meal, I prefer appetizers and signature cocktails which allows for mingling and ease for both the host and the guests. Here are some tips to ensure you have a successful dinner party.

 

THE PERFECT GROUP

 

A memorable dinner party is one that allows your guests to be relaxed and involved in engaging conversation. Bring up a surprise topic or an event to get the conversation flowing.  I recommend 6 to 10 guests.  By remaining within this range, you keep the party intimate. Plus your guests get to know each other a bit more! Mix the crowd up. Invite singles you may want to introduce to one another, or a friend of yours that is musically talented for an impromptu jam session. Your group should be eclectic to make for some interesting topics and moments.

 

 

 

BAR PREPARATION

 

Be sure to have your bar prepared whether you are sticking to one specialty drink or are giving your guests an array of choices.  I also like to make a small note card for the "drink of the night" that includes the ingredients. TIP: Make sure that the moment they walk in the door you supply them with a drink.  This will help your guests  to relax a bit if they need to.

 

 

 

 

SET THE MOOD

No matter what song list you play make sure they set the tone you had envisioned for your party. Sometimes the background music should be just that – in the background, but sometimes it serves as a conversation starter. Be sure to keep the volume in check, and eliminate your stress by making sure you don’t have to keep checking your player whichever you may be using.

 

Lighting! The lighting of a room can easily make or break the party. Think about the coziest restaurant you know... how is the lighting set in the restaurant?  To achieve a soft glow, avoid harsh overhead lighting and use candles both on all your spaces tables and throughout your home. 

 

Introductions.... This is a very small detail to remember but one that is impactful. When introducing your friends or family to one another, you always want to introduce their name first before their relation to you. Its not just proper but allows the other to remember their name vs. just their relation to you. TIP: If there are new introductions being made, help to initiate conversation. The best way to help out is to mention something that is common ground between them.

 

VISUALIZE YOUR SPACE

 

Your home should always be clean however when you have guests over its all about the details. Tidy up your coat closets, pull out your nice table linens and iron them. Even out your draperies and fluff your pillows. Light candles and place them in special nooks. Use beautiful paper napkins in the bathrooms and pull out your special soaps. TIP: Avoid scented candles that overpower the smell of your cooking. Fresh flowers in each room also set the mood. Walk through your home and inspect the details. Imagine being in a beautiful hotel, what makes that place feel fresh and clean? Use those very thoughts and add or take away to create that space. Do a walk through 30 minutes before your guests arrive.

 

 

 

 

 

TIP: If you have limited space for coats, I suggest purchasing a collapsible coat wrack for when you have company over. Keep it tucked in a corner with beautiful wooden hangers, matching of course. It keeps your home tidy and their belongings organized. One of my pet peeves, is seeing coats and bags thrown on a beautifully made bed. Its a small detail but really makes a difference. 

 

 

THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM

 

A few days before, or possibly a week,  sit down and plan out exactly what you would like to serve, how much prep time you will need to ensure that you aren’t rushed and frazzled, but instead be able to relax and enjoy the evening. I also enjoy writing down the food options on either note cards, chalk board or displayed on butcher paper (add the ingredients in small writing under each of the more complex dishes).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TIP: Plan your look ahead. Treat yourself to a blowout before the party - you need to look fabulous.  After all, you are the host.

 

 

 

SIT BACK AND SIP

Ok, so now the house is ready, the music is playing, the food is prepared or almost ready to be served, and you look fabulous . . . one more thing must be done to help you relax – sit down and enjoy a half a glass of wine thirty minutes before your guests are expected to arrive. Not only will this help you relax, but it will serve as a quick reward and moment for reflection on a job well done.  Do yourself a favor and give it a try.

 

While now you should be well on your way to coming up with the type of party you want to create. What works for you when putting together a dinner party? Id love to hear!

XO

Meems