How to Host a Stress-Free Small Dinner Party at Home
In today's world of email, voicemail and rushed coffees, it's sometimes hard to get together in person with your friends. A great way to reconnect is to host a dinner party at home. Of course you'll want that dinner party to be as easy and enjoyable as possible. Use these steps to ensure a stress-free dinner party.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Invite your friends over for dinner. Make sure it's a good night for you and them. For lower stress, select a time that isn't too busy, so that you can concentrate on your party. Use an online invite tool to help track responses.
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2
Limit the guest to between six and eight people, including yourself. This will help ensure that you keep the stress level low.
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3
Clean your house thoroughly the weekend before your dinner party. You'll have less to do on the big day. To make sure it stays clean, straighten up a little each night before bed.
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4
Choose recipes that can be partially prepared ahead of time. For example, anything that you can prepare the night before and let marinate overnight is a great option. Allow guests to bring something if they offer. Wine, soft drinks or even a dessert that you don't have to worry about may help reduce your stress.
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Prepare what you can the night before, like veggie trays, salads, most desserts and marinated entrées. For salads, don't put the dressing on the night before or you'll have soggy salad. Set your table the night before as well, keeping pets out of the dining area overnight.
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Ensure you have all ingredients and supplies you'll need before your guests arrive. Plan to serve the first course at the time specified on your invitation, but be prepared for late-comers. Turn off your oven and keep the main dish warm for an extra 20 minutes, if necessary.
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Relax during dinner and let your guests steer the conversation topics. Your guests will enjoy your thoughtfulness and hospitality. You'll enjoy the live companionship of good friends as well.
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Tips & Warnings
If an uncomfortable moment arises during dinner, excuse yourself to check on something in the kitchen to buy time and regain composure.
If the thought of cooking for eight people still doesn't sound like your idea of "stress-free," consider having the party catered. If your budget allows for this, you can either have caterers come to your house and serve the food or you can have catering delivery.
