With kids around, I rarely get to enjoy big adult parties anymore. Managing childcare is one thing when you have a mixed bunch of ages and personalities. For me, it’s more about being able to stay up late enough to get the most out of a gathering. Some of my babies are early risers, so there are no lazy mornings for me.
But, it is still possible to enjoy a dinner party as a hostess and it doesn’t have to be stressful either. I’ve found lots of gorgeous recipes over the years to keep me going through several courses. All I need now is a guest list, and I can create the perfect dinner party.
If you are planning a dinner party soon, then you might want to try some of my favorite cheats. The first is delivery. It is much easier to shop online for your ingredients and wines than to try and pick up everything you need with the kids around. You can find a good bottle or two at Kent St Cellars to inspire you for the evening. Choose choice cuts of meat from a reputable butcher that delivers. As for the vegetables, farmer’s market produce may be best, but having it delivered to your door makes it much easier.
My second cheat is to use recipes you have tried and tested before. This takes the stress out of the preparations. It also means you are definitely going to enjoy the dishes you create. Pick recipes that are fun and quirky to make it extra memorable.
Preparing the food is the time-consuming bit. Take a day to get things together and start cooking. If it is all ready to serve before your guests arrive, you can enjoy their company a little more. You can prepare the dining room ahead of time too. Perhaps some of your kids would like to be involved. It can be nice to have the older children join in for part of the evening too.
If you don’t have any, why not consider hiring some good table linen? It can be really nice to make a special occasion out of your dinner party. After all, how often do you get to do something so grown up? Glasses can be hired too. There is often a deposit to be paid before they are delivered. For a really sensational evening, you could even hire some waiting staff.
Once the table is set, and the food is simmering, it’s time to get ready. Dressing up for a fancy dinner is a wonderful way to remind yourself that you are you and not just a mommy. You might have time in the day to make it to the salon so you can look really glamorous and chic for your evening. Your dinner party is also a great excuse for buying a new dress and shoes.
As the guests arrive, why not light some candles and put on some music to create a perfect dinner party atmosphere? As you sit down to your meal, you can enjoy a good glass of wine. Relax into your perfect evening. Enjoy.
Photo by Tae In Kim
Mia Guerra
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