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HOW TO PLAN A DINNER PARTY

 
Planning an entertaining menu and an evening with guests can be quite intimidating. But with some planning, you will have a wonderful time at your own party and not feel like the hired help!
 
First decide on the date, guest list, and theme. If you choose to entertain around a holiday, many of your decisions will be easier, if you incorporate traditional decorations and food. Invite guests early, preferably two weeks ahead of time. This will give you time to plan. The comfort of your guests is your primary goal, so think about compatibility, tastes, ages, and the ambiance you want to create.
  • Make a realistic assessment of your cooking and baking skill levels, and the time you'll be able to commit to the party. There are ways to make things easier - A potluck party if you are really busy is fine. Have one of your guest bring dessert, another an appetizer, and perhaps one a side dish. A sit down dinner is more formal than a buffet, so think carefully about what type of party makes you the most comfortable.
  • Make lists. Lists are absolutely essential for any party, as you can jot things down as you think of them. Once you have the basics well planned and written down, your mind will be free to be creative with the food, fun, and decor.
  • Make your guest list and invite them. Calling is the easiest way to invite, and you will most likely get an immediate response. For large parties, like a surprise birthday party, you can send out invitations.
  • Plan your menu. Have fun with this, but don't overreach! If you are a beginner cook, choose a main dish that you have made before and enjoy,( or one of ours) then build upon it.
It's a good idea to never make a recipe for the first time for a party. There's nothing worse than struggling with an unfamiliar recipe when you can hear your guests having fun in the next room! Try to plan a mix of make ahead recipes and those that require last minute baking or preparation. Having everything done, and ready to just pull out of the fridge and /or freezer and serve, or pop in the oven will make your life so much easier.
  • Take inventory of your supplies: table and chairs, serving pieces, cutlery, crystal, plates, candlesticks, serving areas, and of course your kitchen. . Make sure the things you own are sparkling clean and in good repair.
  • Think about how you want to decorate. Decorations for a party can be as simple as candlesticks on the table, or more elaborate if flower arrangements, tablecloths, and even chair slipcovers. Decorate with the seasons too. A bowl full of polished apples and spruce twigs in the winter, or a vase with colorful leaves and cattails in the fall are simple, inexpensive, and beautiful.