There’s something special about sharing laughter and conversation around your own dining room table with the friends you enjoy making memories with. In this article we’ll look at how to throw great dinner parties at home so you can start a new Saturday night tradition.
Cook Ahead of Time
The most helpful hint when throwing great dinner parties at home is to cook the food before your guests arrive.
We’ve all been there. The house is clean, music is softly playing, guests are ringing the doorbell—and you’re stressed, stirring the pasta into boiling water at the last minute.
Avoid the stress by planning a meal that can be cooked ahead of time. Crockpot meals work wonderfully for this. You can throw something together in the morning and it’ll be ready to eat when guests arrive.
A Dish To Pass
One way to alleviate stress is to have each guest contribute toward the meal. Most people offer to bring something because they truly want to help, so go ahead and let them. Guests can bring appetizers, side dishes, and dessert.
They’re happy to help. It feels great to sit together and know everyone had a role in dinner.
Keep the Drinks Flowing
Food is the main attraction at a dinner party, but drinks are the co-star. Offer cocktails to guests as they arrive so they can immediately start relaxing and having fun. Then keep the drinks flowing so guests aren’t left asking for refills.
If you don’t already have a well-stocked liquor supply, consider stocking yours so you’re always prepared for dinner guests. A dinner party at your home is the perfect time to break out special, rare bottles to share with friends. Buy unique spirits when you can; before you know it you’ll have an excellent collection.
Light Snacks
Since you won’t eat as soon as guests walk in the door, have light snacks sitting around so everyone can nibble as they enjoy a before dinner drink. Nuts, crackers, cheese, and pretzels are simple but enough to tide everyone over.
Set the Mood With Music
It’s a bit uncomfortable to walk into a quiet home, especially when you’re the first guest. Set people at ease with a background music. As soon as they arrive, guests know the evening is about fun and relaxing when they hear the tunes playing.
The Table Setting
Every dinner party is different. What mood are you going for? If it’s a casual vibe with a dinner of burgers and chips then let the table reflect that with disposable dinnerware and a red and white checked tablecloth.
On the other hand, if you are hoping to create a fine dining experience at home, have fun and go all out with candles and the beautiful china that rarely gets used.
The table setting plays a big role in setting the tone of the evening.
Are you ready to throw a great dinner party? We hope our ideas are helpful when it’s time to do so. Get the guest list going and the menu planned, and you’ll be on your way to a fun night of food, fun, and fellowship.
