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The Seating
To avoid the where-am-I-supposed-to-sit panic and to encourage
dinner conversation, set out place cards when entertaining more
than four people.
Shake up the mix. Don't seat people together who already know
each other intimately, especially couples. Place guests near
other people they might enjoy getting to know. Use place cards
that fit the decor or theme of the occasion and set them in the
middle of the dinner plate.
The Food
- If you serve appetizers before
the meal, appetizer flavors should differ from the main dishes.
Garlicky appetizers will not enhance a meal flavored with garlic.
Do coordinate your appetizers with dinner, however. When serving
an ethnic dinner, start your party with appetizers of the same
cuisine.
- It's permissible to serve store-bought
food at a party; it can make up the entire menu or serve as accompaniment
for your homemade specialties. For appetizers, pick up egg rolls
at a Chinese takeout or fancy hors d'oeuvres at a delicatessen.
A deli is a great source for salads or luncheon meats.
- For all but the most formal
dinner parties, invite guests into the kitchen to chop, fry,
toss, taste, and converse. You'll get plenty of help with food
preparation and enjoy sharing recipes and cooking ideas with
friends.
- If you won't have much time,
consider asking friends to share in the cooking load. Various
couples could provide a portion of the meal such as appetizers,
salad, dessert, or even after-dinner drinks. Offer your recipes
or ask them to make their own choices.
- A marvelous menu will accommodate
guests' dietary restrictions. Plan a few low-fat and vegetarian
items, if possible, so that no one will feel left out.
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A
dinner party -- whether formal or casual -- is a wonderful way
to entertain friends and family.