As the health restrictions ease, hosting a get-together is more likely to be on your mind. According to a recent survey, six out of ten respondents are more enthusiastic about family dinners since there hasn’t been a chance to get together in so long. And with the holidays just around the corner, it’s normal for family dinners to be in full swin
But hosting a family dinner comes with its own challenges – from preparing the food to ensuring everyone is comfortable. In order to ensure everything goes smoothly, you must prepare a few things in advance. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make your family dinner successful.
Table and Chairs
Of course, you’ll need a place for everyone to sit. A family dinner won’t be complete if every member is away from the table. So, these should be the first things that you set up.
Round tables are great for conversation, while rectangular tables work well for larger gatherings. You’ll also need to make sure you have enough chairs for everyone. If you’re short on chairs, consider using folding chairs or renting from a party rental company. You can also pull out some ottomans and cushions from around the house.
You don’t have to go overboard with the table and chairs. As long as everyone has a comfortable place to sit, that’s all that matters. Besides, the focus of the evening should be on the company, not the furniture.
Plates, Cups, and Utensils
You’ll need enough dinnerware, glasses, and utensils for everyone at the table. Doing so will ensure everyone has access to what they need.
If you think you’re short on tableware, it’s time to shop around. You can find good deals at your local thrift store or big-box retailer. But if you want to save more, it’s best to purchase in sets. A high-quality dinnerware set that matches a glass drinkware set is an excellent choice that will impress your guests.
It’s also a good idea to have extra utensils on hand, such as serving spoons and knives. This way, you won’t have to resort to paper or plastic alternatives that might spoil a good meal.
Tablecloth and Napkins
You’ll need a tablecloth and some napkins to make your dinner table look more presentable. A tablecloth will protect your table from spills and stains. Plus, it adds a touch of elegance to the occasion.
If you don’t have a tablecloth, look for one made of easy-care fabric, such as polyester. This way, you can simply machine wash it after the dinner party. As for the napkins, choose a color that complements your tablecloth or dinnerware.
You can find tablecloths and napkins at your local department store or online. Just make sure to purchase enough for all your guests. By doing so, you can impress them with your attention to detail.
Centerpiece
The centerpiece is the focal point of the dinner table. It’s what will set the tone for the evening. So, it’s crucial to choose a piece that fits the occasion.
If you’re having a formal dinner party, consider using a floral arrangement or candelabra. A vase of fresh fruit or a bowl of nuts will do the trick for a more casual affair. You can also get creative with your centerpiece by using items that have personal meaning to you and your guests.
No matter what you choose, make sure the centerpiece is visible to everyone at the table. You don’t want it to block anyone’s view or be an obstacle during the conversation.
Food and Drinks
This one is pretty self-explanatory. You’ll need enough food and drinks to feed everyone at the table. Who wants to sit through a dinner party when they’re hungry?
When it comes to food, it’s best to stick to dishes that you’re familiar with. This way, you can avoid any kitchen disasters. If you’re not confident in your cooking skills, consider ordering catering or taking some dishes from a local restaurant. As for the drinks, make sure to have various options available, such as soda, water, wine, and beer. In doing so, everyone can find something to drink that they enjoy.
If you’re unsure how much to make, err on making too much rather than too little. That way, there will be plenty of leftovers for anyone who wants seconds or even thirds.
Hosting a family dinner can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. Nonetheless, you can be sure that your family dinner will succeed with enough preparation. The above items are just some essentials you’ll need to take care of. So, start planning and enjoy a lovely evening with your loved ones.
