My work obviously involves a lot of cooking but I still love to throw dinner parties. Bringing friends and family around the table makes me – and everyone else – super happy and it feels good to spread some love.
I’ve thought a lot about how to make hosting a breeze because without the right game plan, it’s not fun. Once you’ve got this down pat, it becomes easy. So if you stress when you have people over, or avoid it because you find it all too hard, I can help. These are my top tips and they’re relevant no matter how many people you’ve invited over.
- Advance prep is the name of the game
I choose easy dishes I can make in advance, or that can be prepped ahead then thrown together at the last minute. The right menu is key and I avoid anything complicated, or that needs last-minute attention. I want to spend time with guests, not be in the kitchen when they arrive. I also avoid trying out new recipes on dinner guests. Familiarity is key and a dish you know well really helps confidence levels. - Get the drinks (and the cheese) flowing
I get a drinks station set up, complete with prepped garnishes, mixers and ice, so guests can help themselves and get the party vibes going. As a guest there’s nothing worse than having to hassle for a drink. I set out cheeses, charcuterie and breads at a separate station, so guests can casually snack and drink before dinner. - Platters, flowers and candles at the ready
I tend to cook dishes served family-style where everyone helps themselves, which is simpler than plating up individual serves at the last minute. I set the table and lay out all the serving platters, bowls, and plates ahead of time, then check I have everything I need. I put flowers in vases and light the candles in advance; you can never be too organised with the little touches. In the frenzy of getting ready, they’re easy to forget. - Relax and reset
When everything is ready to go, I give myself time to relax with a drink and make sure I’ve got a great playlist happening before the first knock on the door. Taking 20 minutes is a great way to reset before everyone arrives.
Marion x
PS: If you want more tips (and to see inside my house!) watch on below.
Things I’m loving this week
- Chiang Mai ‘Hung Lay’ Pork Curry; it’s the star of any Thai dinner party.
- The Anaya Round Serving Bowl; food just presents itself on this. It’s such a gorgeously neutral blank canvas.
- I love this scented candle. It’s so lush to burn, but is subtle enough it doesn’t overpower your senses when you’re enjoying a feast.
