Stylish dinner party tablescape.
The key to a successful dinner party is a relaxed host and a beautiful table like this one from Celebrations at Home. With these tips, you’ll be the stress free hostess with the mostest.
The most important thing to do, besides stock up on your home bar accessories, is to relax. Your mood sets the tone for the party. If you’re stressed, your guests will feel it. Here are some more tips:
Music
Make sure the music is pumping before your guests arrive and plays during the entire party. Turn the volume just loud enough so people don’t have to shout.
Bar carts are perfect for a cocktail station.
Cocktails
Get your guests involved in the fun by setting up a do-it-yourself cocktail bar, like this one from A Life Worth Living. Print out recipes on index cards so guests can mix up their own masterpiece and make sure to have the right home bar accessories to make your party complete.
Connaught Antique Brass Bar Cart
Table
Set the table the day before and lay out all of the bowls and platters you plan on using (label each one with whatever dish it will hold). Get creative and go with a seasonal theme like a rustic wine and cheese dinner.
Ambiance
Whichever stylish pendant lighting you have hanging above, dim the lights and provide lots of non-scented candles to create a party atmosphere. Everyone looks better by candlelight after all.
Food
Cook tried and true recipes and prep what you can ahead of time – now is not the time to whip up something you’ve never made before. Try some comfort food like a simple roasted chicken and little red potatoes.
Pretty Party Favors Win Over Guests
Favors
Guests love leaving with a little memory of the night so send them home with something as simple as a potted herb with a favorite recipe attached, like these pretty ones from After Orange County.
Most importantly, remember that if you’re enjoying yourself, so will your guests. Cheers!
Image credits: Celebrations at Home, A Life Worth Living, After Orange County