Tips for Hosting Your First Dinner Party
Hosting a dinner party can be a lot of work, but it's also highly rewarding. Many people have engaging dinner parties throughout the year that build great memories with friends and family. Getting started may seem daunting, but there are many ways you can create a great evening without making any of the most common mistakes that hosts can make.
Consider Everything You Might Need
One of the best things you can do for your dinner party is to make sure you're well prepared for it. A common mistake is to come up short on supplies. Ahead of time, stock up on everything you might need and extras just in case. Run through the dinner party in your mind and take note of everything you will use, from napkins to a cork opener. If you already have certain supplies, make sure you visually check that you know where they are before the day of your dinner party.
Another way to prep is to make sure all your dishes are clean and that your dishwasher is empty. You never know when you'll need extra dishes at the request of your guests, and you will need that dishwasher space once the party is over.
Greet Guests with a Drink
Show hospitality right from the beginning by having drinks ready to greet your guests as they arrive. This welcomes them into the evening and helps them to relax early on. You can choose a range of drink types, stick to champagne, or even create a signature drink that's unique to your dinner party. Put your twist on a common recipe or experiment beforehand to create just the right drink.
Be Thoughtful with the Menu
Talk to your guests beforehand about what they like to eat and what they would want to exclude. These days, food allergies and intolerances are so common that it's a good idea to find those out beforehand. You may want to create several dishes that people can choose from to cater to their preferences. If you want to make everything as simple as possible, you can always have the event catered by a restaurant that you know your guests like.
Put Some Personality on the Table
Some thoughtful touches to the table can say a lot about how much you care about your guests. It doesn't have to be full of art, but some candles in nice holders and fresh flowers can work wonders. Any small decorative items can also be a good way to add something personal and unique. Likewise, put on some music that brings some of you to the table while pleasing everyone there.
Have an Activity Ready
Once dinner has been eaten, the group will still want to spend time together. Have an activity or two ready, so that you can all play a game or something similar. Be ready to get everyone engaged and to talk to everyone during the activity. If you have any shy guests, talk to them so that they will continue to feel welcome and a part of the festivities. You can be present in the moment and at the same time stay conscious about how everyone is doing at the party. Also, be ready to fill glasses during the activity.
If you want to have an upscale experience, whether you're at home or on the road, contact the Client team today. From the first call to the final service, we approach every client and their vehicle with prestigious care.