Top Mistakes People Make When Hosting A Dinner Party

{Guest Post by Christina of Obsessed Events}

Every year my husband & I host something we call the “Black Friday Chowder Feed”. Yes, it is on Black Friday right after Thanksgiving, yes I prep ahead during this busy holiday, & yes we are crazy! But, the good news is I have learned a lot of tips & tricks when hosting this party & the several other dinner parties I coordinate with my party planning business, Obsessed Events. I will share a few with you below.

Breaking the bank: Keep things simple, pleasant & reasonably priced. Spending more doesn’t mean you are guaranteeing yourself a perfect evening. A simple menu & timeline is always best & usually costs less. Start by setting yourself a firm & reasonable budget.

Wait! Let me go grab her Epi Pen! – The last thing you need is the ambulance at your dinner party. Red flashing lights aren’t the mood lighting you’re looking for. Be sure to discuss with your guests what their dietary needs are & if they are allergic to anything.

KISS the cook: KISS stands for ‘Keep it simple, stupid’ This is not the time to try that new recipe you’ve been drooling over on Pinterest. Keep your menu interesting but simple.

Rest: NO NOT YOU! GET BUSY, YOU HAVE 20 GUESTS COMING FOR DINNER! I was talking about the food. Choosing an entrée that can rest overnight is a great way to keep things simple & easy. Prep your braised meats or stew overnight, & then during cocktails pop it in the over to cook! Voila! 

I’m not 100% sure but you might not be Tom Cruise in Cocktail – So I am going to suggest you stay away from complicated drinks. Choosing something you can prep ahead of time into large crystal beverage dispensers, is a great option for self-serve cocktails.

Stop Wine-ing - Wine is also another wonderful option. If you are not a wine guru, NO WORRIES, head to your local wine store. There will be people who you can share your menu with, who can help you select the perfect wines & the right amount for your guest count and budget.

Musical Chairs – This is not a game you want played at your dinner party. Assigned seating may seem a little formal, but it can really help keep the mood light for those who are indecisive & create a great space for conversation flow. Put the funny guys & talkers towards the center of the table & the shy ones near the hosts. P.S. The hosts should never sit next to each other.

And finally.....

Make your last course first – Choose a dessert you can make the day before like a tart, pudding or trifle. As the evening is winding down & you have had your share of those easy as pie pre-prepped key lime pie martinis, the last thing you want to be doing is fussing in the kitchen.

I hope these little insights are helpful. Happy Planning!