Organizing a dinner party can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Here are our top tips for how to host and still enjoy the fun!
Prepare
Cleaning, shopping, cooking… do it all the day-of and you'll be exhausted before the first guest arrives. Throw yourself a bone and spread the prep over the days prior. If your work schedule is tight, look into using a grocery delivery service, or pick things like dessert up pre-made.
Involve everyone in the action
Involving guests in the cooking can add to a party atmosphere, so don't be afraid to throw them an apron. Many chefs in the kitchen can sometimes work a treat! Alternatively, tasking different guests with different aspects of the night works too. Just make sure you put someone who's punctual in charge of the starters. A room full of people with nothing to snack on is no fun!
Keep it simple
Unless you're a fan of a kitchen challenge, there's no need to overcomplicate the menu. Choosing pasta dishes that can be cooked en masse, salads and make-your-own pizzas will allow you to minimize cooking time, and keep your costs down.
Of course, we happen to think Coastermatic coasters are the real life of the party. Create your own set of conversation-starters here.