Let’s be real for a minute: Being an adult sucks. When you’re young and full of vigour, you have all the time in world for last minute parties, coffee dates with your girlfriends, and well… fun. The next thing you know, you’re looking after sick kids (or Dad who has a man-flu), working late, or attempting to complete one of the tasks on a long list of errands. Seeing your friends goes from every other day, to every other month and that’s just downright depressing! If this sounds familiar, then it might be time to group your friends together for a well-deserved dinner party. In our busy lives, there’s nothing like a night spent with good company, bantering and telling anecdotes over good wine and scrumptious food. Unlike going to a restaurant, you won’t be competing with other patrons for the waiter’s attention, fussing over how to split the bill, and no incomplete or missing orders – we’ve all that person that never gets their meal #awkward. If you’re in need of a dinner party or just happen to be planning one, here are the essential items needed to make it a night to remember.
source: pinterest.
Lighting
For me, poor lighting is an instant mood killer; with dim yard or screamingly bright lights turning me into a ball of anxiety. Simple things like spring lanterns, hung in trees, or white fairy lights under the pergola or intertwining through the branches automatically sets a dreamlike theme that not only relaxes your guests, but is oh so pretty to look at. Tip: Want the secret to instant party ambiance? Music. Choose your favorite tunes, although preferably something that isn’t overkilling it in the aggressive guitar department, and set up a playlist that you won’t need to worry about for the rest of the evening.
Outdoor BBQ
You might have a state of the arc kitchen, however when it comes to outdoor dinner parties, there’s something really special about cooking a delicious feast on an outdoor bbq. Besides the obvious allure of serving up a perfectly barbequed steak, keeping your cooking outdoors, keeps your guests together rather than creating an outdoor/indoor separation.
Simple Table Top Display
Most people go for the massive centrepiece, realising a bit too late that the oversized object in the middle of your table is impractical if you wish to fit anything other than plates and glasses. To ensure that your guests can see each other across the table, break out beyond the center of the table by adding a row of small, clear vases coupled with a small flower display.
Side Table Outdoor Setting
If your table setting isn’t large enough to fit everything you want, a side table of refreshments gives you more space and creates another conversation starting space. Top a small table with a square of pretty fabric and add pour-your-own pitchers of preferred beverage.
Citronella Candles
Besides burning your dinner, the only other thing that can put a damper on an evening is mosquitos. Place some citronella candles around the garden for a sweet fragrance that keeps the bugs at bay.
Love dinner parties? Leave your dinner party tips in the comments below!
