If you have been following my recent posts, you will see that I have been walking you through a very first dinner party. I’ve given you the dinner party menu, recipes, music and drink suggestions, step-by-step checklist and some do’s and don’ts. Here are a few last instructions to make your dinner party entertaining a success.
Optional Shortcuts
1. You can purchase a pie from a bakery instead of baking the Kahlua Fudge Brownie Pie if you are short on time.
2. You can purchase baby salad greens already washed in a bag in the produce section.
3. If you have a nice tablecloth, use it for this setting. Use cloth napkins and your best dishware. Fresh flowers in a low vase would be a lovely addition, and if you would like to use candles, be sure they are unscented. Don’t forget salt and pepper on the table and a glass of water for each person in addition to a wine glass, if serving wine. Set out the silverware and salad plates on the table and put the dinner plates in the kitchen, since you will be plating this dinner individually.
Party Etiquette
Turn off your cell phones or put them on vibrate mode. Turn on your answering service or voicemail and try to avoid being on the telephone when you entertain.
Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t compare yourself with your mother-in-law. She has had lots of years of practice and started out the same as other young wives. If you struggle at all with competitiveness or insecurity, throw it out for the evening. Remember, you are giving a gift to your in-laws of a lovely meal and gracious hospitality. Who doesn’t appreciate that?
Tips to Ensure Success
This entree is a good one to plate individually. First, serve the salad at the table and then arrange the haricots verts, potato and Beef Tenderloin Medallions with Savory Sauce on the dinner plates and garnish with the cilantro. Make it look neat and appealing to the eye and serve your guests their entree already plated.
Have fun and enjoy your dinner party!
