Dining Room + Kitchen

How To Host The Perfect Dinner Party

There's a special occasion around the corner, and you're throwing a dinner party. (Yay!) And now it's time to plan the menu and set your table. (Yikes!) Have no fear. Here's our tried–and–true recipe for acing the dinner party in 5 easy steps:

1. PICK A PALETTE OR THEME.

Use your everyday dishes as your tabletop foundation, mixed with pieces that fit your party concept. Start with a clean, white set like our Organic Shaped Dinnerware, then layer in colorful, patterned dishes to pack a punch of personality.

What's your tabletop look? See how we've curated table settings to suit every style.

2. START WITH DRINKS + APPS.

Arrange your apps and get the wine ready to flow prior to your guests' arrival. For go time, enlist your partner or a guest to pour drinks while you serve small bites, or vice versa.

Distribute your apps on trays + boards throughout your living space and kitchen so that traffic doesn't jam into one area and guests are encouraged to mix + mingle. Our Marble + Wood Cutting Boards can look equally modern or traditional to suit your style.

An at–the–ready bar cart gives guests a can't–miss–it destination and all the essentials for touching up their own drinks, lightening your load a bit as host. Make sure you have the right bar tools + mixers stocked so guests won't have to go looking for anything themselves.

3. GO WITH WHAT YOU KNOW.

No need to add the extra stress of tackling that recipe you've been eyeing on Pinterest for the first time tonight. Pick a recipe you've made before to take some pressure off. Plus, you'll be better positioned to chat and engage with your guests while you add the finishing touches if the recipe doesn't demand 100% of your focus and attention.

Make it easy with family–style dishes that are easily passed and shared, putting your platters and serving bowls to use. (We love an assortment of bowls in contrasting colors!)

4. CREATE AN EASY CENTERPIECE.

Add personality to your table—and foster mealtime conversation—with succulents, terrariums or clusters of flowers grouped in vases down the center of the table.

Whatever it is, make sure your centerpiece still allows guests to talk across the table.

5. EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY!

The best part. Save all cleanup for after, and enjoy your evening with friends + family!