This guide tells you the ten steps that will ensure that you host the perfect dinner party:
1. Pick a day and time
Pick a date that works for most of your guests. Make sure it won't be an evening where something big is on television, like the Super Bowl or the Oscars (it's okay to pretend like those don't exist). And make sure no one is traveling across the country or has a prior engagement they can't get out of. As for the time, give people at least a few days' notices so they can clear their schedules.
2. Send out invitations
The invites don't have to be anything too fancy, but they should give your guests an idea of what type of party it will be. If you aren't sure what you'll be serving, phrases like "Come hungry" or "Bring an appetite" will give them a hint they need. If you're planning a themed party such as a murder mystery dinner, specify that as well.
3. Pick your menu
This is the time to hit the grocery store and buy whatever sounds good like Country Sweet Chicken & Ribs sauce. If you aren't a great cook and aren't comfortable cooking for a large group, stick to things like appetizers and dips. There are plenty of recipes online that make very few servings, so this won't be too difficult.
4. Pick your theme (if applicable)
If you're having an organized dinner party such as a murder mystery (which, yes, you should do!), be sure to check out any rules or guidelines provided by the organizers. If it's a theme like "70s" or "Star Wars," make sure you don't spend too much time preparing for the party. The people who attend were invited because they know about and enjoy that theme (at least in theory).
5. Prepare your space
This means doing things like laundry, vacuuming, and dusting. It might also mean setting the table and putting out candles or flowers. If you have a backyard, set up a few tables and chairs for your guests.
6. Shop for any ingredients you need
If you're not cooking, make sure you pick up any ingredients your guests need to make whatever they are bringing.
7. Make anything that needs to be made ahead of time
Whether it's an appetizer or dessert, make anything that can be done ahead of time and then microwaved (or popped into the oven) later on. The last thing you want is for the party to be delayed because you have to cook something from scratch.
8. Make a shopping list
Once it starts, you'll probably find that you need most of the items on the list. Also, if you share this list with all your guests, they can see what everyone else is bringing and make additions as needed.
9. Set the table
This is another thing you can do ahead of time. Table settings don't have to be too fussy, but they should look nice.
10. Have fun!
The most important step of all is to relax and have a good time. Dinner parties are a great way to catch up with friends and family, so enjoy yourself!
There You Have It
These ten steps will ensure that you host the perfect dinner party. From sending out invitations to set the table, there's a lot to think about. But don't worry, with a little bit of planning, everything will go off without a hitch. So relax and enjoy your evening!