How to Hostess the Perfect Dinner Party

So, you have decided to throw a dinner party and want to know how to make it a success. You want to be able to watch your guests face light up as they mingle and socialize, and don't even want to think about being stuck in the kitchen through the whole affair. You have racked your brain and can only come up with one solution to the problem, hire a caterer. Before you give up on the dinner party sans caterer and empty your wallet in the process try these few tips for making your next dinner party a huge success, without the stress.

First, when deciding whom to invite make sure you invite guests with different things in common so that they can entertain each other, and keep the party moving throughout the evening. I know you may be tempted to play matchmaker at one of these affairs, but if you do keep it subtle. Inform the guests that you are going to try your matchmaking skills on only that they should meet the other party. Tell them about the qualities you think they share and drop it, your hints should be enough to pique their curiosity, and nature will take care of the rest.

When planning your menu only consider drinks that can be set up in a self serve manner. Think punch bowls and pretty pitchers all set on a table with a supply of ice and glasses. There are a wide variety of drinks that can be served in this manner, and it allows you to spend your time circulating through the party rather than pouring drinks.

Set out plenty of refreshments such as cheese and crackers, fresh fruit, and dips to be enjoyed while waiting on the main course. Put these snacks in close proximity to the drinks, with small serving plates and napkins. These will give your guests something to snack on and talk about until time for the main course.

Your table should be set with all of the necessary silverware, plates, and even most of the dishes, including individual portions of dessert, that you plan to serve before guests arrive. That way, when you are ready to start the meal, you invite the guests into the dining room. While they are being seated you go into the kitchen, and retrieve the main course.

Instruct them to help themselves as you are placing the main course on the table, and let everyone begin enjoying the meal that you have prepared. Just a reminder, keep a small supply of all of the different types of drinks you are serving in the dining room. This way if a guest needs more to drink during the meal you can get it without causing too much of a distraction.

After the meal is over, invite the guests back into the adjoining room to enjoy more drinks and snacks. Enjoy his or her company until it is time for everyone to depart. Congratulations! You have just pulled off a wonderful dinner party that everyone was sure to have enjoyed with no catering required.