Hosting a dinner party can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be stressful if you’re not adequately prepared. Here are some tips to help you throw a successful dinner party.

 

Create invitations 

First, you need to pick a date for your dinner party. Once you decide on a date and time, you should consider who you want to invite. Make sure you determine your guest list far enough in advance so so that you can send out your invitations and give your guests ample time to R.S.V.P. We recommend planning and sending out invitations at least three weeks before your party.

Here are a few suggestions for you to consider when making your guest list:

  • If it’s your first dinner party, start small: about 4-6 people.
  • Dinner parties are intimate–so try to invite close friends.
  • Determine the purpose of your dinner party.

Plan your menu 

Once you have heard back from all of your guests–and have a total count of people coming–then you can plan your menu. 

When guests R.S.V.P., make sure to ask about allergies they may have. After you have identified, if any, dietary restrictions, you can start putting together a menu. If you are not confident in your culinary skills, do not stress. To make you more comfortable, stick to meals you have made before–so you can have fantastic meal while still keeping it simple.

Prep everything

There are three main elements that should be part of your party preparation: food, your home, and your mental health. (This last one may have surprised you!)

You can prep your food as soon as you have decided on a menu. Make a list of all the ingredients you need and plan a time to go to the grocery store–or arrange for your groceries to be delivered. When you are ready to start cooking, lay out all the ingredients and utensils ahead of time, so you are not stressed trying to find something while cooking. 

Next, you will need to give yourself time for home preparation. If you are short on time, focus on the rooms where your guests will be. So take an evening–or a weekend–to ensure your living room, kitchen, bathroom, and dining area are clean. 

Last (but certainly not least), you need to prepare yourself mentally. Getting ready for a dinner party can be stressful, so take time to yourself if you are feeling overwhelmed. 

 

Now that you have learned a few tips about hosting a dinner party, you can start making plans for your own party. Your Long Ridge Construction semi-custom home is perfect for having friends over. So contact us to learn more about Orchard View and build your new dream home.