Friday, November 7, 2008

10 Steps to Dinner Etiquette (When You Are The Host)

This is the time when casual is the norm, but lets bring back some of the elegance and charm in our dinner parties!

Dinner Etiquette When You Are The Hostess


1. Send your invitations out at least 3 weeks before your dinner date.
This gives guests enough time to RSVP and make changes to their schedule if necessary, plan for babysitters. (a good invitee will respond within 1 week)

2. Prepare in advance.
You want to enjoy your party and be with your guests, that's why you throw a dinner party! If there are things you can prepare ahead of time, do so!

3. Think about your guests and what foods they will enjoy.
Be sure to have one meat and one vegetarian dish available to your guests.

4. Your friends are coming to create memories with you.
Make sure you make your guests feel comfortable. Clean your house please. Clear any clutter and put away any personal items that your guests do not need to see.

5. Set the Scene
Décor sets the mood and gives ambiance, so keep it simple but lovely.

6. Make sure to introduce your guest to one another and speak with everyone at the party.
The one thing everyone has in common is you, so make sure to make everyone (included invited guests of guests) feel comfortable.

7. Create place cards.
Not only do people like to see their name in print, but it makes the evening even more special! You can also choosing who sits next to whom, encouraging new friendships, and helping each guest feel like they are equally apart of the group.

8. Create an ice breaker.
This can be a game or a simple mingle. Make sure that everyone has a chance to meet every one!

9. Appetizers anyone?
Simple appetizers and drinks gets everyone relaxed and in a social mood.

10. Don't forget Desert!
Desert is where people relax and talk over coffee or tea and can really get to know each other.

* Let people leave with a simple/small gift as they depart. Remember to keep your theme in mind.

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