Hosting a dinner is a vital art. The best part about it is that learning your way around this practice is an enjoyable time for the most part. Sure, hosting a dinner party can be a touch stressful, but you get to control the flow of the evening and present your hospitality to others, which can feel very rewarding, especially with willing guests you enjoy being around.
But as you cultivate your table for potential guests, especially around the festive period, you may wish to brush up on your skills as a dinner host. Maybe you’re expecting family members you haven’t seen for years at your table, or you want to move into this role as you’ve moved to a new location and have become friendly with your neighbors.
No mater your intentions, in this post we hope to offer some advice about the tentpole skills needed for great dinner party hosting:
Reliable, Suitable Furniture & Lighting
Your guests’ comfort is essential for a good dinner and as much as we take it for granted, excellent furniture can be important. Make sure it’s specifically designed to host the numbers you wish for, such as by the dining furniture at Shawcross and their many options. No one wants to feel cramped or worry their chair might give out mid-meal, so having this sorted is essential From there, don’t forget that lighting also plays a role in comfort and ambience. It should be bright enough to see your food, but not so harsh that it feels like a clinic – and you can balance this out with candles to your heart’s content for a little fun.
Rotating Refreshments
It’s always a good idea to keep drinks and snacks flowing throughout the evening, and if you do that, it’s about 90% of how to be a good host sorted. Start with something light, like sparkling water or a simple cocktail, and move to wine or other beverages that pair well with the meal. Make sure you’ve got non-alcoholic options too, so everyone feels included, and vegan options when that might be preferable. For snacks, a small tray of nuts, cheese, or crackers can keep people happy before the main course arrives, even if you have a starter coming.
Accommodations Where Needed
Of course, providing something of a tour as people arrive can be worthwhile. This way they know the house and don’t feel like strangers to it. From there it’s about asking for accommodations, confidentially, ahead of time. If someone has dietary restrictions, it’s worth asking ahead and planning at least one dish they can enjoy. You can then think about seating arrangements, which may be more important than you had assumed, as putting people next to those they’re comfortable with can prevent awkwardness. A small touch, like providing a blanket for someone who might get cold or having the heaters on if you’re eating outside, can also be a nice way to add some comfort and warmth.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily feel like the best dinner host you have the chance of becoming.
