Late winter is the perfect time to host intimate dinner parties of 50 people or fewer. Everyone has returned home after the new year, and most have recovered from their large office holiday parties. With the weather still being less than optimal, staying cozy inside with friends couldn’t be more appealing.
If you’ve never hosted a dinner party, or if you’re looking to make your next intimate affair a more unique experience, Secret Ingredient is here for you. We specialize in boutique catering, meaning we can personalize the evening however you’d like—and even give you some ideas you may not have considered.
Hiring a caterer also means you’ll have more time to spend with your guests and less stress before the party. Plus, you won’t have to stare down a sink full of dishes once it’s over.
Here are some dinner party ideas to make your next small gathering a night to remember for everyone:
Make It Themed
Choose your favorite type of cuisine (or perhaps one you’ve never tried) and prepare some lesser-known dishes from that part of the world. Secret Ingredient can make anything from Tanzanian fish curry to Southwest chicken in black bean chipotle sauce. Add some festive decorations or traditional games, and you’ve got a party!
Consider Restrictions
Offering options for people with dietary restrictions is a kind gesture to make them feel special, included and welcome. Dining away from home is sometimes out of the question for people on special diets, so imagine how delighted they’ll be to find dishes they can eat at your party.
Add Wine
You don’t need to stock a full bar to satisfy your guests. Instead, turn your dinner into a wine pairing! Purchase several different wines (or ask guests to bring a bottle), then experiment with different food and wine combinations. It’s a smart way to minimize your to-do list and create a conversational atmosphere.
Remember: dinner parties should be a fun way to unwind and enjoy the company of friends, not a way to add stress to your life. For more memorable, no-sweat dinner party ideas, check out our sample menus or contact us to have us cater your next intimate gathering.
