Hosting a fun and memorable dinner party can seem like a daunting task.  But with the right preplanning and these simple steps it’s actually quite easy.  You can turn a simple dinner into a night to remember.  The most important thing is to think of your dining table as your blank palette.  With the right touches you can create any kind of environment you want.  Here are some classic tips to help you pull off your party without a hitch!

Signature cocktail:  A signature cocktail will add excitement to your party!  More importantly it can be matched to any dinner party theme.  Have ingredients ready to go ahead of time, so you can easily mix drinks as guest request them.  This also provides entertainment, as you can show off your bartending skills.  For example if you were doing a 1960’s Mad Men theme an Old Fashioned would be perfect!

Ambiance:  Keep the lights low to create a relaxing atmosphere.  Candles produce a soft glow and will also double as decoration for the room.  You can line votives down your dinning table or across your mantel.  Go for a non scented candle, so you don’t upset any sensitive noses.

Music:  Keeping background music playing creates a subtle ambiance that encourages people to mingle freely without feeling like the whole room is listening to them.  Music can help set the tone of the event.  Soft soothing music with help your guest relax whereas upbeat tones can energize the party if you want everyone to dance after dinner.

Meal Plan:  Choose to cook something that you are familiar with.  When hosting a group of people it’s better if you don’t try something fancy for the first time.  You will be more confident and you don’t have to worry about any surprises.

Natural Decor:  Let the time of year guide your table decor.  Pulling fresh elements from each season is a simple way to embellish your dining experience.  For example:  shells and sand for summer, small pumpkins and leaves in the fall, pomegranates and evergreens in the winter, and blossoming branches in the spring.  Add votive candles and name place cards to the table settings and the table is set!

Focus on your guests:  Don’t get distracted with the mess.  Clear the table and leave the dishes in the kitchen until after your guests leave. Bring out coffee and a light dessert to help wind down the evening and to take in the great meal you’ve just finished.

Remember that dinner parties can be as simple or as extravagant as you want. Whether it is a movie and pizza night or a formal 3 course meal the goal is the same: to provide a fun evening where you enjoy your food, atmosphere, and most importantly the time you spend with your guests!