Hosting A Dinner Party Checklist 

2-4 weeks ahead:

• Choose the event date/time
• Create your guest list
• Invite your guests (via phone or formal invitation if you’re feeling fancy!)

1-2 weeks ahead:

• Plan your menu, taking into account the season (consider any guests special dietary restrictions, if it’s families vs couples, and if you want a casual or formal event.)
• Read recipes in full and confirm you can find all ingredients and cooking equipment 
• Create a cooking timeline
• If using a caterer, call the caterer to plan the menu and discuss details and timing
• If ordering from your favorite restaurant, call ahead to place the order so it’s timely. You can also still serve the food on pretty platters or have creative presentation even if it’s take-out! 

1 week ahead:

• Design your tablescape and flowers (or order flowers from a florist)
• Ensure you have adequate table setting and serving essentials (flatware, linens, napkin rings, serving pieces, place cards and holders, salt & peppershakers, etc.)
• Prepare the crystal, fine china, and silver if the dinner party will be a formal occasion 
• If you have a kids table, plan their table setting too (even if it’s charming paper plates!)

2 days ahead:

• Do your grocery shopping and stock the bar. Ensure you have nibbles for when guests arrive (even homemade popcorn for kids!)
• Consider coordinating little party favors for guests if you’re having a larger gathering (a nice-do not a must-do)
• If it’s during the holiday season, party crackers are a thoughtful detail 
• Outline a seating chart if you’re using place cards, and seat people with common interests next to each other
• If printing out menus (a special touch) do these a couple days ahead 
• Tidy up the house and prepare the powder room

1 day ahead: 

• Prep the food (chop vegetables, cook anything that can be prepared in advance) 
• Set the table
• Arrange the florals or pick them up from the florist

Day of:

• Cook the meal or welcome the caterer into your home to do the magic in the kitchen!
• If picking up dinner or having it delivered, do so before your guests arrive so the food is hot and you can enjoy the party too 
• Clean the kitchen so its presentable for guests 
• Create ambiance with flickering candles and soft background music
• Dress in a fabulous outfit
• Be an attentive and hospitable host once the guests arrive 
• Pop open the champagne and sparkling water, serve a gorgeous meal, and have fun!