How To Host The Perfect Dinner Party

There's a special occasion around the corner, and you're throwing a dinner party. (Yay!) Now it's time to plan the menu and set your table. (Yikes!) Have no fear. Here's our tried-and-true recipe for aceing 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, such as our Organic Shaped Dinnerware, then layer in colourful, patterned dishes to pack a punch of personality.

2. START WITH DRINKS + APPETISERS.

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

Distribute your appetisers 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 topping up their own drinks, lightening your load as host. Make sure you have the right bar tools + mixers stocked so guests won't have to go looking for anything.

3. GO WITH WHAT YOU KNOW.

No need to add the extra stress of tackling a new recipe for the first time. Pick something 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 per cent of your 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 colours!)

4. CREATE AN EASY CENTREPIECE.

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

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

5. EAT, DRINK + BE MERRY!

The best part. Save all clean-up for after – and enjoy your evening with friends + family!