It’s sweet summertime which means the living is easy and so is hosting the perfect party! Do you love the thought of throwing a dinner party but are unsure of where to start? First and foremost, remember a really great dinner party only requires forethought, food and drink, great friends, lively conversation, and personal touches. The perfect dinner party includes details that are unique to you and that will enhance your guests experience––so, be creative with your cocktails, dinner menu and table décor. If the dinner party prospect still seems daunting, I have included a set of guidelines to help hosts and hostesses create a flawlessly fun gathering.
Create a timeline:
Advanced planning and devising a list of tasks and a timeline is where your party planning begins. Will you wow your guests with your cooking skills or will you hire a caterer? If cooking, you may find it easier to only tackle the entrée portion of the meal and order apps or dessert. Always consider how to make the evening less stressful for yourself in advance.
One month out:
Create your guest list. Consider how many people can fit comfortably in your space, your preparation space, and how your guests will mesh. A dinner party can be a great time to become acquainted with new people so don’t overthink, and create an interesting mix of guests.
Hire a chef or caterer; or, if going it alone, create your menu.
Send out verbal or written invitations and remember to include attire. Use phrases like “snappy casual if dining outdoors or “dressy casual” if you are hoping for a sundress and sport coat affair. Regardless of the number of guests invited, request RSVPs and give a date and place for guests to respond such as an email or phone number. Having a firm guest list is an absolute must.
Two weeks out:
Think about the overall feel of the evening and the aesthetic you wish to create. Count what you already own and can use such as china, flat ware, linens, charger plates, and glassware. Use pieces that encourage conversation such as family heirlooms or items you have collected over time or while traveling. Your table design sets the tone for your dinner and creates atmosphere so decorate according to the type of night you are wanting to host.
Plan your table top décor and consider freshly cut flowers, candles, and anything else that represents your unique flair. If you find yourself in need of some inspiration, Pinterest is a good place to start.
Firm up your menu and use seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh local ingredients are also a nice touch.
Week of:
Shop for dinner ingredients that are nonperishable or give your caterer a final head count and discuss menu one last time. If serving alcohol, purchase for your bar and consider your menu for table wine. Make a playlist of music for cocktails, dinner and maybe some impromptu dancing later. Background noise is a must. Make sure your house and refrigerator clean and organized. Purchase bar and food garnishes and buy extra ice to have on hand. Set the table with your glassware, charger plates or placemats, and flatware––basically anything that is not perishable and needs to be saved for the day of.
Day of:
Prepare anything you can in advance. If hosting a catered event have the team arrive early to help you set up. Prepare any signature cocktails, appetizers, and stations. Go over table setting and make sure everything is in place except for the china you will be serving on. A preset salad is always a fun and tasty way to brighten your table. Lowers, candles, place cards, and hostess gifts should be placed and this time also. Get dressed then straighten and “fluff” entertaining spaces. Light candles and start music. Lastly, take a moment to go over your checklist and timeline. Prepare yourself a beverage, sample an appetizer, and try to relax for a moment prior to your guests arrival.
Enjoy and Bon Appetit!
Recipes by Simon Hall
Watermelon Spritzers
I’m about to show you how to get the party started! These Watermelon Spritzers are my absolute favorite way to have a Whole30 approved celebratory drink. I strongly believe that anything with fresh watermelon will taste amazing, but when you add LaCroix Sparkling Water or bubly Sparkling Water to the mix, it’s magic. No one will miss the alcohol with these fun mocktails!
INGREDIENTS
1 watermelon,
diced small
Your favorite flavor of
LaCroix Sparkling Water or bubly Sparkling
Water, Fresh mint, lime or watermelon slice to garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Simply smash the diced watermelon until juiced. Feel free to leave some small chunks! Pour into your favorite cocktail glass, fill only to about halfway and top with your watermelon cubes and juice. Add your choice of garnish.
Cheers! You can see more from this birthday party over on my Instagram feed: @simonhallprivatechef.
Grilled Romaine Hearts
I am having some fun on the grill making some Grilled Romaine Hearts! Grilling lettuce? Weird? Not in my house! It’s incredibly delicious I promise. Romaine is a hearty lettuce that can stand up to a grill and can even get some beautiful grill marks. You will not believe how satisfying this dish is. Party guests (vegetarians and carnivores alike) will swoon over the unique smokiness. Impress your friends and treat them to a fun dish––the grill is working some magic over here!
INGREDIENTS
4 hearts of romaine
2 apples
4 lemons
½ cup cashews
¼ cup olive oil
Salt & pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
Slice romaine lengthwise. Drizzle olive oil over romaine and season with salt and pepper. Grill romaine hearts until grill marks form. Top with sliced apples and cashews and finish with lemon juice and another drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy, my friends!
Happy entertaining!