10 Super Tips for Hosting a Dinner Party

Hosting a dinner party can be very stressful. Making sure the house is clean, mastering a delicious meal to present to your guests, setting the table… the list goes on. The thing is, a dinner party doesn’t HAVE to be stressful.

One of my proudest traits is being a “relaxed” hostess. I love hosting people at our home, mainly because I am such a homebody and don’t mind putting in the effort to host if I get to do it from the home that I love!

In the dozens of dinner parties we have thrown at our home, I have found my hosting niche, from early preparations to ending the night with fun games–and, especially, avoiding a million dirty dishes. I owe it to my mom and the hosting goddess Martha Stewart for all that I’ve learned in etiquette, recipes and overall dining style, but I I’ve found my own flare that makes my dinner parties my own.

It’s all about embracing a fun and relaxed atmosphere that keeps everyone at ease, including you! Here are some simple tips on how to host a dinner party.

1. Crafting a Memorable Invitation

Your dinner party starts with the invitation, so make it memorable! Designing personalized invitations that capture the essence of your event can set the tone and build excitement among your guests. Whether you opt for digital invites or classic printed versions, aim for a design that reflects the theme or style of your gathering. Make sure to include all essential details, such as the date, time, location, dress code, and any special instructions. If your guests need to bring something or follow specific guidelines, include that information as well. A friendly reminder a few days before the event can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and ready to join the fun.

2. Get all of the Dinner Party Essentials you (might) Need

To ensure your dinner party goes off without a hitch, it’s all about having the right essentials on hand. With a bit of prep and the right gear, you can focus on enjoying the evening with your guests rather than scrambling to find what you need. 

Here’s a handy list of everything you need to make sure your dinner party goes off without a hitch: 

• Tableware: Plates, cutlery, and glasses for both wine and water. 

• Table Linens: A stylish tablecloth, runner, or placemats. 

• Napkins: Cloth or high-quality paper napkins to complement your table setting. 

• Serving Dishes: Platters, bowls, and serving utensils for your main courses and sides. 

• Wine Opener: A reliable corkscrew or wine key for opening bottles with ease. 

• Centerpiece: A simple but elegant centerpiece, such as a vase with fresh flowers or a few candles. 

• Pitcher: For serving water or pre-made cocktails. 

• Coasters: To protect your table from drink stains. 

• Ice Bucket: To keep beverages chilled throughout the evening. 

• Trash Bags: For quick and easy cleanup, especially if you have a full trash can. 

3. The Preparation

There are few things I hate more than doing the dishes. So I always try to make sure the dishwasher is completely empty when the party begins. 

That way you have plenty of room for all the dirty dishes from the party, and you can load as you go. 

It’s a super simple step, but one that you’ll be grateful for as the party goes on! I also always make sure the trash has been taken out —there is nothing worse then having a full trash can during the party.  

Further reading: Get our complete dinner party checklist to ensure everything runs smoothly.   

4. A Stress-Free Kitchen 

I can’t stress it enough – keep the unpleasant tasks out of the way before the party. I prep everything I am cooking ahead of time and wash knives, cutting boards, and pots right after I’m done with them so there is way less to clean up after the party. 

Pro tip: Pre-make dessert as well (I will usually do this the night before)–that way, you just have to put it in the oven or heat it up on the stovetop! 

5. Setting the Table 

My mom follows a traditional style when it comes to her tablewares, a style that suits her classic taste. While her timeless table setting tips still influence me, I like to incorporate my own personal style into my table settings. 

A more modern take I like to insert into my mom’s style is by using pops of modern colors – gold, whites and black, with bright colors mixed in. 

Honestly, if there is anything you can do for your table, it is having a great centerpiece. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive, and it pulls the whole table together. Whole Foods has beautiful flowers and if you just buy some greenery and one or two colorful flowers, it will go a long way. 

I always have a flower arrangement (although sometimes succulents can be a great centerpiece!) that is full of unique and colorful flowers—my favorites being anemones and ranunculus. 

A simple centerpiece ties the whole table together 

6. Splurge and Save 

Tableware can get pretty expensive, but there are places to splurge and places to save. You can save by buying simple white plates from Target or Ikea. They are inexpensive but still great quality. I have found that round white plates are the perfect neutral setting for any menu. They are traditional but still clean and modern looking. 

Splurge on wine glasses. You don’t want to be drinking gorgeous La Crema wine in cheap wine glasses! Consider the shape of the glass when buying, and make sure you have glassware options for both white and red wine.  

Save or splurge on linens, though. It’s great to splurge on one set of 8-10 placemats and matching napkins so you have a nice set – West Elm, Crate and Barrel and Sur La Table sell beautiful linens. 

If you want to have more than one set you can save by buying fabrics to make your own. Stick to something simple if you are going to splurge, though. You’ll never tire of them and they’ll always be in style. White or black napkins, and a fun printed placemat (I prefer gold ones) will go a long way with making your table look beautiful! 

7. The Menu

The meal completely depends on how many people you are inviting. If it is more than 6, I prefer to ask everyone to bring something and I put myself in charge of the main dish. Have someone bring a side, a salad and a dessert. Try not to tell them exactly what to bring; just give them a cuisine to follow. 

If it is six people or less, making a delicious pasta dish and a big salad is always easy. The meal doesn’t need to be complicated, especially when you have a great bottle of wine like La Crema Monterey Chardonnay! 

8. Wine Pairings Done Right 

Choosing the right wine can really make your dinner party shine. The key is to match the wine with the flavors of your food so everything tastes just right. For hearty dishes like beef stew, go for a full-bodied red wine that can stand up to those rich flavors. For lighter dishes such as seafood or chicken, a crisp white or a delicate rosé works well to balance things out. 

When pairing wine with specific dishes, think about the basics: creamy dishes often go nicely with a buttery Chardonnay, while spicy foods are great with a slightly sweet Riesling. These combos are classic for a reason—they just work. But don’t be afraid to try something new; sometimes, an unexpected pairing can be a fun surprise for your guests. 

To make sure everyone finds something they like, offer a selection of wines. Having both red and white options, plus maybe a sparkling wine, covers all the bases. A little note on each bottle about what it pairs well with can help guests choose their favorite. By putting a bit of thought into your wine choices, you’ll keep your guests happy and your dinner party running smoothly. 

9. Timeline of the party 

I love filling our dinner parties with a full night of activities. From the start to finish, you want your guests laughing and having a great time. That way, they’ll be sure to leave saying that your dinner parties are the best! 

Start with appetizers—a simple cheese plate is never a disappointment. Have a lighter wine with the appetizers—the La Crema Chardonay is perfect! 

During appetizer time, have anything you need to stick in the oven timed out so dinner will be ready in a reasonable time frame. Guests shouldn’t be made to wait longer than thirty to forty five minutes. 

After dinner and dessert, we love playing a card or board game with our guests. Completely depending on your crowd but we love Cards Against Humanity, Mad Gab, or Heads Up. 

10. Overall Enjoy!

There is nothing better than gathering your friends together for a fun night! Sit back and relax, and enjoy these moments with your friends and family around the dinner table! We hope you enjoyed these dinner party tips and would love to hear how your parties went!

Make Every Dinner Party Unforgettable with La Crema 

Want to make your next dinner party a standout event? La Crema wines are here to help you do just that. No need to stress over picking the right bottle last minute—shop our online selection and have your favorite La Crema wines delivered straight to your door. It’s an easy way to make sure you’re all set for an unforgettable evening with friends and family. Cheers to making your next gathering a hit with La Crema!

 SHOP ALL WINES 

FAQs 

1. How do I host my first dinner party?

Hosting your first dinner party can be a bit daunting, but it’s all about preparation and keeping things simple. Start by planning a manageable menu that you feel confident preparing. Focus on a few dishes that you can cook well rather than trying to impress with complex recipes. Make a checklist of everything you need, from table settings to ingredients, and prepare as much as you can ahead of time. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the evening with your guests, so don’t stress over perfection—focus on creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere. 

2. What should I consider when planning the menu for a dinner party?

When planning your menu, consider your guests’ preferences and any dietary restrictions they might have. Choose dishes that are manageable to prepare and can be made ahead of time if possible. Balance your menu with a mix of flavors and textures, and include options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians to ensure everyone has something to enjoy. 

3. How can I style my dinner party table without breaking the bank?

Stylish table settings don’t have to be expensive. Use items you already own creatively, such as layering tablecloths or runners. Opt for simple centerpieces like fresh flowers or candles that add a touch of elegance. Mixing and matching your existing tableware can also create a charming and personal look. 

4. What are some tips for managing post-party cleanup efficiently?

Minimize cleanup by setting up a designated area for used dishes and utensils during the party. Use disposable or easy-to-clean tableware if you prefer. Clean as you go by loading the dishwasher and clearing the table throughout the evening, which can make post-party cleanup faster and less overwhelming. 

Photos by Sarah Hill Photography