Obviously, we love parties here at HOORAY! and when hosting our own celebration, a few bottles of champagne and an antipasto platter or two are all we need to get the party started. But for days when you’re feeling a little more ambitious, a dinner party is the perfect way to introduce new friends to old. With our do’s and don’ts, there is no need to be intimidated. Happy entertaining!

Do

Take your guests’ dietary requirements into account when planning your menu. Craft a meal that is flexible and accommodates various restrictions if possible. With a growing number of allergies and more people choosing strict diets for health reasons, today’s wise host does better to plan well in advance to keep the evening flowing smoothly.Blog_Meeta_Gastronomy_03.jpg

Image: Gastronomy on HOORAY!

Don’t

Forget to enjoy the company of your guests. While there are always various things to attend to when hosting an occasion, remember that you threw this gathering to share a meal with those who enrich your life. We suggest that once all the food is on the table and your guests have begun feasting, it’s time to relax. Dessert can wait until later.Blog_Tips_HowtoThrowaRelaxedBohoDinnerParty_20.jpg Image: HOORAY! How to throw a boho dinner party 

Do

Assign a partner. This is optional, but cooking and hosting at the same time can be hard work. Having a co-host in either a spouse, romantic ‘other’, or a good friend can be helpful. On that note, for occasions on the larger side of the scale (think 30+ guests) consider bringing in some outside help; like a whizz-bang mixologist to shake and stir up some delicious cocktails or a catering company to help in the kitchen.Blog_Meeta_Gastronomy_01.jpg

Image: Gastronomy on HOORAY!

Don’t

Forget about the importance of ambience. You don’t have to hand make place cards for every event you plan, but an arrangement of fresh blooms, a coordinating colour palette used on the table, a luxe linen tablecloth or some candlelight will go a long way in creating a memorable first impression.Anna Wu's Birthday Dinner | Moody Winter Garden Party #annawuthreeoh

Image: HOORAY! Anna’s 30th Birthday

Do

Let your guests contribute. For informal events, when guests ask ‘what can I bring?’, give them a choice of a few things that would be helpful. While assigning specific dishes to each guest is probably going a little too far, don’t feel pressure to do it all yourself.RC_IndustryEvents_LavendarDinnerParty_21.jpg

Image: HOORAY! Lavender Charity Event