Step1
Hosting the perfect dinner party begins weeks and sometimes months before the date of the event. Preparations can be lengthy but fairly simple with a good game plan.
Develop this plan by deciding upon a theme. If there is a wedding, anniversary, etc. the theme will flow fairly naturally. For other events such as a fund raiser, company gathering, or the like, you will need to pick a theme to coordinate your preparations around. Examples include: Hawaiian, costume, black tie, etc.
Step2
Once your theme is selected you will need a guest list. Without an approximate estimate of the number of people in attendance you will not be able to select an appropriate location or know how much food to prepare.
Send out invitations with RSVP contact information far enough in advance so that people will be able to schedule and make babysitting arrangements if necessary. A good rule of thumb is 6 months for formal events if no long distance travel is required; up to 1 year if persons will be traveling great distances; approximately 1 to 2 months for less formal gatherings.
Step3
Your location should take into consideration persons with disabilities allowing for accessible parking, bathroom facilities, and seating.
It should also allow for ample parking and/or parking attendants. Be sure that there is an indoor facility or tent available for outdoor parties in case of rain or other bad weather.
Reserve the facilities as far in advance as possible.
Also, plan for an alternate location for emergency situations wherein the reserved location experiences unforeseen unavailability.
Step4
Most persons will RSVP if requested but if time has lapsed, call to confirm their attendance. You will need a close estimation of guests and their special dietary restrictions to properly plan your meal.
When ordering or personally preparing the meal, over estimate by 1 meal to every 10 persons. It is better to have an abundance of food than to have your guests underfed.
Step5
If possible, call to confirm attendance with guests who have responded to attend, 1 week in advance of the gathering.
Also, call and confirm with all help hired to assist you i.e. waiters/waitresses, disc jockey, catering company, photographer, etc.
Step6
Be sure to arrive early on the day of the event to catch any oversights and to greet guests.
A great host and/or hostess makes all feel welcome and comfortable and is available for any guest needs during the entire duration of the party.
Step7
Although parties are fun, much work is involved. I suggest hiring help responsible for cleanup as you are likely to be exhausted from the festivities.
- If you've enjoyed this article, please use the email link "send to a friend" at the top of this page to send to 1 or more friends, family or coworkers. Your support is greatly appreciated. - Thank you. Christina
Authority 
