While a large gathering of friends can make for a fun evening, an intimate dinner party allows you to spend quality time visiting with each of your guests. You also have more options for creative freedom when designing a smaller party. You can easily incorporate fun themes, unusual settings, and delectable menus.
Following a few simple steps, provided to you by Demo 3 Birds Acura will help you set the right scene for your perfect intimate dinner party.
1. Set the date and invite your guests.
Even with a short guest list, it can be difficult to plan around your friends’ busy schedules. If you are flexible on the date, but want to invite a specific group of friends, it may be best to offer two or three dates and settle on an evening when everyone is free.
2. Decide on the setting.
While intimate dinner parties tend to be thrown in your own home, you could also book a secluded room at a restaurant or plan to serve dinner at a park, on a boat, or in another interesting setting. If you are hosting the party at home, a small group can easily be moved out of the dining room. A cozy table in the library or beside an elegant fireplace, is sure to make an impression. Outdoors, dinner could be served on the patio, in a gazebo, or in the garden.
3. Plan the menu.
Whether you are having the dinner catered or preparing the food yourself, you want a menu that will reflect the occasion. Plan for a variety of appetizers and drinks to serve when your guests first arrive, but be sure they complement the main course. Checking if your friends have any food allergies or restrictions in advance is a thoughtful touch so that everyone can enjoy the dinner.
4. Arrange the décor, music, and lighting.
Simple touches like fresh flowers and candlelight enhance the setting for your intimate dinner party. However, a little goes a long way. Special décor should lightly dress the event and not become a distraction. The same approach holds true when planning soft background music. Set up a playlist with favorite songs which enhance the mood but will not overshadow your conversations.
5. Prepare earlier in the day.
To keep stress at a minimum, prepare as much as possible earlier in the day, or even in the days before your dinner party. If you are cooking the meal yourself, choose dishes which can be easily prepped in advance and popped into the oven or quickly sauteed at dinner time. Arrange your décor and set the table hours before your guests are due to arrive. You will feel more relaxed knowing that everything is ready to go.
6. Enjoy yourself.
Whatever happens, remember that dinner parties rarely go off without a single hitch. Your guests will be less bothered by mishaps or delays if you are able to take them in stride yourself. An intimate dinner party gives you the opportunity to enjoy time with your guests. Don’t let your desire for hosting perfection keep you from enjoying your own party.
