SEARCH

Dinner Party Hosting Guide

Whether you're a seasoned entertainer or a first-time host, this comprehensive guide is here to assist you in planning and executing the perfect dinner party. With a wealth of resources, from the finest cooking and baking recipes to stunning table decorations, and even tips for creating custom invitations, menus and name tags, you'll find everything you need right here.

Impress your guests with exquisite culinary delights, set a captivating ambiance, and add those personal touches that will make your home soirée truly exceptional.

The Ultimate

Curate your guest list

STEP 1

The first step in hosting a memorable dinner party is to carefully curate your guest list. I always strive to strike the perfect balance between personalities, interests, and a diverse mix of individuals.

I believe that bringing together a group of people who complement each other's company is the key to fostering lively conversations and creating an engaging atmosphere. Whether it's reuniting old friends, introducing new friends, or blending different social circles, I take great pleasure in curating a guest list that promises an evening filled with laughter, interesting discussions, and meaningful connections. 

STEP 1

NEXT STEP

A well-chosen theme can bring a sense of cohesion and excitement to your dinner party. Whether it's a formal black-tie affair, a casual backyard barbecue, or a cultural exploration of a specific cuisine, the theme sets the tone for the entire event.
Be sure to incorporate the theme into your invitations, menu, decorations, and even dress code, if desired.

Discover more exciting themes below:

Afternoon Tea
Murder Mystery
Sunday Brunch
Sleepover Party

Wine & Cheese
Pasta Making Dinner
Christmas Soirée
Oscars Screening

Pizza Movie Night
Arabian Nights
Birthday Dinner
Easter Brunch

Baby Shower
Dog Anniversary
Casino Night
Spa Day

Pool Party
Oktoberfest
Hanukkah 
Bridal Shower

Everything begins with the theme

STEP 2

Wine & Cheese
Italian Dinner
Christmas Soirée
Oscars Screening
Baby Shower
Dog Anniversary
Casino Night
Spa Day
Pool Party
Oktoberfest

Pizza Movie Night
Arabian Nights
Birthday Dinner
Easter Brunch
Afternoon Tea
Murder Mystery
Sunday Brunch
Sleepover Party
Hanukkah
Bridal Shower

Everything begins with the theme

STEP 2

NEXT STEP

To add a personal touch to my invitations, I love using pre-designed templates from platforms like Etsy. With the help of design tools like Canva, I customize them to match my dinner party's theme and style. After editing, I either print them at a local shop or use online printing services for a professional finish. It's a simple way to make each invitation unique and set the tone for a memorable evening.

Templates

Print online here: CANVA, PRINTED and VISTA PRINT

Invitations are the first glimpse of what your guests can expect from your dinner party. Consider sending out personalized, beautifully designed invitations that reflect the theme and ambiance you're aiming for. Whether you choose traditional paper invitations or opt for digital alternatives, make sure to include all relevant details such as date, time, location, dress code, and any special requests.


Send out the invitations

STEP 3

Send out the invitations

STEP 3

NEXT STEP

To add a touch of elegance, print custom menu cards that highlight each course, creating an anticipation for the culinary journey ahead. Explore the extensive array of pre-designed menus on platforms like Etsy and Canva, or consider collaborating with a graphic designer to create a bespoke design tailored to your unique occasion (see list below).

Menu Templates

Menu templates for available purchase from ELSAWORKS

A well-planned menu is the heart of any successful dinner party. Select dishes that cater to your guests' preferences and dietary restrictions while keeping the theme in mind. Offering a variety of appetizers, main courses, sides, and of course desserts will ensure there's something for everyone. An important rule I live by is to avoid experimenting with new recipes for important dinners. Instead, I stick to recipes that I have perfected through my experience in home cooking.

Discover a wealth of cooking and baking recipe inspiration from a selection of my favorite food blogs and websites listed below.


Menu

STEP 4

Menu

STEP 4

NEXT STEP

Table Setting

The way you set your table can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic of your dinner party. Consider using a tablecloth or runner that complements your color scheme, ensuring it is clean and well-pressed. Invest in quality dinnerware, glassware, and cutlery. Use cloth napkins, and consider adding personalized place cards to make your guests feel extra special. Don't forget to incorporate decorative elements like napkin rings, or small embellishments that tie into your theme.

Flowers

Flowers have the magical ability to instantly uplift any space. Add elegance and beauty with fresh blooms as centerpieces or scattered arrangements. Choose flowers that match your theme and consider their fragrance to enhance the ambiance.

Candles

Create a warm and intimate atmosphere with strategically placed unscented candles. The soft glow adds a cozy and romantic touch to your dinner party.

Music

Choose a playlist or live music that aligns with the ambiance you desire. Explore a variety of playlists suitable for any dinner party right here.

Hosting a dinner party goes beyond serving delicious food; it's about crafting a welcoming and memorable ambiance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. This can be achieved through the thoughtful use of decorations, which have the power to transform your gathering into an unforgettable experience.


Decorations & Ambiance

STEP 5

NEXT STEP

Ressources & websites

Cooking & baking recipes

Find inspiration in these websites and blogs that offer a diverse array of simple, creative and delicious recipes:

Table decorations

From printed tablecloths and candles to holiday-themed centerpieces, these are some of the best places to pick up everything you need to create a beautifultabletop. 

Invitations, menus & name tags

Enhance your dinner party hosting with personalized invitations, themed menu cards, and name tags. Whether you create custom designs or use downloaded templates, these special touches add sophistication and charm to your soirée, creating a memorable and stylish experience for your guests.

PREPPY IN THE KITCHEN
HALF BAKED HARVEST
HAND ME THE FORK
SOUTHERN LIVING
A COZY KITCHEN
JOY THE BAKER
BON APPETIT
SKINNY TASTE

MARTHA STEWART
WISHBONE KITCHEN 
BAREFOOT CONTESSA
COUNTRY LIVING
THE FIRST MESS
DOWNSHIFTOLOGY
MY NAME IS YEH

MRS ALICE
TALKING TABLES
WILLIAMS SONOMA
ANTHROPOLOGIE
BED BATH N' TABLE
H&M HOME

SUR LA TABLE
ZARA HOME
FOOD 52
ETSY
POTTERY BARN
CB2

Hosting Essentials

shop

view all

Holidays & Entertaining Ideas

Whether you're planning an outdoor gathering during the summer or a cozy Christmas cookie baking session, this is your ultimate guide to hosting the holidays. Discover hosting tips, holiday recipes, gift ideas for the hostess, and inspiration for creating unforgettable home soirées.



Read more