How to Plan a Dinner Party

Are you one of those people who have always wanted to have a dinner party at your home with friends but have never done so? Do you find it overwhelming because you feel you have to clean the house and you are unsure what to serve? Or do you worry too much about making your guests comfortable? If you answered yes to any of the preceding questions, break out your party clothes as the following steps will help you get started planning a dinner party this month.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Set a date and time for the party. Pick a night that you know most of your guests can attend.
2. Decide on what kind of a dinner party you want to have. This can be as casual as a backyard barbecue or a potluck. Or it can be as formal as a themed dinner; Hawaiian Luaus and Mexican Fiestas are always fun.
3. Plan your menu based on the kind of dinner you want to host. Think of what can be made ahead and what can be bought from the deli or store. There are many choices of pre-made food that are delicious and presentable that you can purchase at most stores. All you need to do is heat it up right before your guests arrive. You don't have to cook everything. The whole purpose of the party is to get together and visit, not to worry and cook all day in the kitchen.
4. Write down a list of guests you would like to invite. Consider your guests' compatibility such as their age, interests and personalities. You want them to be as comfortable as possible and be able to communicate with everyone with ease.
5. Prepare your invitations and send them out at least a week in advance. Or you may decide that a simple phone call will do. It really depends on how formal you want to make the event.
6. Invite your guest to bring a signature dessert to share or their favorite sides if you are planning a potluck. This way you can concentrate on preparing (or buying) the main dish.
7. Get all the eating utensils ready such as plates, cups, napkins, forks and knives. Decide on paper and plastic versus china and silverware. Gather enough chairs for everyone to sit down. Borrow chairs from neighbors or other friends ahead of time.
8. Decorate your house according to the theme you have picked. Keep it simple; it doesn't have to be elaborate. A simple table cloth and a themed centerpiece or a vase with fresh flowers is often sufficient.
9. Break up the cleaning of the house into a couple days so it won't be too overwhelming.
10. Get your spouse or a close friend to help plan the dinner party. The more help you have the easier it will be on you. Relax, have fun and enjoy your dinner party.

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