There are a number of reasons why you’d want to host a dinner party. Whether it’s to celebrate a loved one, expand your professional network, raise awareness about an important cause, or anything in between, hosting a dinner party can be a fun and rewarding experience. That said, a successful dinner party doesn’t just happen organically.
A ton of planning and preparation is key to making sure your party goes as planned and not incurring an embarrassing night in front of your family, friends, or coworkers. Here’s how you can host a successful dinner party that creates long-lasting memories and connections:
Pick a Venue
As for any event, location or venue plays a major role in the whole experience. You might lose a lot of people from your guest list if you pick a venue that is dull or too far away from home. Furthermore, they might not come to an event where the venue feels sketchy and unsafe or inaccessible by public transportation.
Pick a venue that has a fun vibe to it, is close enough to everyone on your guest list, and has the amenities or features that your event needs. For instance, a bar setup is a great venue feature if you are planning a party. Meanwhile, wide-open spaces are perfect for viewings, such as art galleries and product unveilings.
Shop For Supplies
Once you have a venue locked in, list down the supplies you’ll need for the event. The type of event and number of guests will determine how much and what type of supplies you’ll need to have. Some items you’ll need include dinnerware sets, napkins, table centerpieces, decorations, ribbons, and balloons, and if they are not provided by your venue, tables and chairs.
According to Smarty Had a Party, disposable plastic serving trays are also a must for formal gatherings, such as weddings. You get very neutral white or gray colors that go along well with both the traditional and modern decors featured in these types of events.
Harness the Power of Social Media
Although personal invitations are great, they are a dated and inefficient form of putting your event out there. Nowadays, social media promotions are a better method of informing people about your event. You can reach a wider demographic in one post without having to leave your home.
You can tailor it so that only select guests can see the event details or send it to everyone in your friend’s list to get more people interested. Social media also makes it simple and effortless to track who has RSVP’d, and guests can even add the event directly to their mobile calendar if and when they do decide to go.
Now that you have the venue, guests, and supplies dialed in, use the remaining time to find or create elements that will define your event. Whether it’s a wedding or a product launch party, you’ll want the decorations and outfits to align with the event that you are trying to celebrate or support.