Host the Perfect Holiday Dinner Party

‘Tis the season to be jolly – and attend fabulous holiday dinner parties, fa la la! If you’re a student on a budget like me, and are brave enough to take on the touted position of host, then you're probably aware of the unwritten guidelines one must follow in order to host a successful party. If you’re new to the game, then you’ve come to the right place.

Hors d'oeuvres and drinks relax guests and encourage conversation

First things first: you’ve got to set the date.

When picking the date, be mindful of other parties around the same time. You wouldn’t want to double-book and run the risk of missing a friend’s party – or worse, no one showing up to yours! 

What good is a dinner party without any guests? Make a guest list.

Think of how big you want your party to be. Who gets along? More importantly, who doesn’t. Are guests allowed to bring a plus one? These are all things to consider. Send out your invites ASAP so that you’ve nailed down your chosen night and reserved your buddies. Paperless Post is fantastic for e-vite templates.

Paperless Post has great templates for any occasion

Next, you’ve got to tackle the most important part: planning your menu.

If you’re cooking for everyone, it’s important to offer delicious options. Be sure to ask your friends about any allergies they may have, and don’t forget about the vegans and vegetarians. Sometimes it’s easier to do your dinner in a potluck style. This way, there are alternatives and you’re not left with all the hard work. Don’t forget about cocktails – be sure to inform your guests if it’s BYOB.

Who can complain about decorations?

It’s time for you to get creative. You can pick a fun theme, like Ugly Sweater Party or Apres-ski, or just decorate in the spirit of the holidays – Christmas, Hanukkah, or even Chrismukkah! You don’t have to spend a lot of money, as the dollar store has great options, and you might have some useful stuff tucked away in your basement that you’ve forgotten about.

Spice up a table setting with a fun-filled Christmas cracker

Finally, you’ve got to prepare a music playlist.

Lots of hearty holiday food can put anyone to sleep, so a great music playlist helps to keep the party going, and your guests awake! Match the playlist to your theme, stick in some fun songs from your high school days, or flip on satellite radio. Avoid slow songs to keep everyone engaged.

Friends wearing festive paper crowns

What's your secret to being the hostess with the mostess? 
What tips and tricks can you share for preparing a successful holiday dinner party?  

Eating my way around the globe

Thanks to my adventurous mom, I’ve been fortunate enough to have the privilege to travel to many exotic, brilliant countries in my life. There’s no more exciting feeling than taking off on a flight to a new place, gearing up to experience diverse, vibrant cultures, miraculous world wonders, and a whole new, scrumptious world of food.

The Pelican Club - New Orleans, USA

Those who know me know that I love to take pictures of my food; but my love of food transcends merely taking pretty, appetizing pictures. To me, it's about the experience and the memories associated with the meal: who I was with, where I was, how I ended up at that particular restaurant.. It's all part of the whole adventure. In fact, trying new foods has taken a spotlight in my adventures.

The Roundhouse Restaurant - Cape Town, South Africa

 

In summer 2011, I went on a trip of a lifetime with my mom to Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. We were lucky to take in some truly remarkable experiences during our three-week safari adventure, like a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls, visiting a penguin colony, and exploring the vast Okavango Delta and Kruger National Park. Having the opportunity to indulge in various kinds of food while we were there, ranging from authentic to the region, to ultra luxurious and gourmet, was a major highlight for me.

Stanley's Camp - Okavango Delta, Botswana

Fine dining in Cape Town, South Africa
La Colombe, Beluga, and The Roundhouse

 In summer 2010, we went on an amazing cruise that embarked from Athens and sailed through the breathtaking Greek Islands, ending in Istanbul, Turkey. In between visiting the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes, exploring the Ancient Greek Library of Celsus in Ephesus, and navigating the narrow streets in Mykonos, I tasted some of the most heavenly food ever.

Gyros - Mykonos, Greece and Baklava - Santorini, Greece

Joke Perestroyka - Itanbul, Turkey

Traditional Turkish food - Cappodocia, Turkey

Throughout my travels, I am always reminded that food offers not just nourishment, but friendship, comfort, and enlightenment. When I look back on photos I took of food I ate on all my trips, I think of the extraordinary times I shared with my family and friends, the incredible world landmarks I stood in front of, and how excited I am to continue exploring the world.

What are some memorable trips you've been on? Did you try any new and exciting foods that you wouldn't necessarily eat at home?