HOW TO
Master The Art of Hosting
Dinner parties, cocktail hours or Sunday lunches with family – hosting is a wonderful way to show those you love most how much you care. Follow MANNING CARETLL’s guide to planning an event in style
If you love entertaining, there’s no better thrill than being dubbed the host with the most. And even though a lot of effort goes into planning an event, the delight of gathering together with friends and family is second to none. Start by creating a to-do list – send out invitations, prepare the perfect outfit, plan a menu that will satisfy your guests – to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Host with purpose
Birthdays, engagements, promotions, graduations or milestone anniversaries: assembling your friends and family for special occasions is always a joy. And while not all parties need to be centred around a specific event, it can make the evening extra special if everyone is gathered to celebrate for a reason. A long lunch is a lovely way to commemorate a special birthday, hen do or baby shower. Intimate dinner parties are great for reconnecting with friends for an evening when life gets busy. And hosting cocktail hour offers the perfect chance to share news, big or small.
Start planning early
Creating a timeline for preparation in the lead up to an event, as well as throughout the day itself, can help to keep track of tasks and errands that need to be completed. From writing the guest list and sending out invitations to planning the menu and curating a playlist, there are lots of details to consider.
First things first, send out a save the date and ask your guests to RSVP so that you can calculate exactly what you’ll need to prepare. Once you know how many people are coming, you can organise the right size space and book a venue if needed. Planning in advance is also important if people are travelling for the event and need to book flights or accommodation.
If you’re cooking the meal yourself, choose recipes that can be prepared in advance so that you won’t have to spend all your time in the kitchen once guests arrive. Catering is a great option if you’re hosting a large crowd because it will leave more time for you to pay attention to other elements. If you’re hosting at a venue, staff can generally help with any dietary requests, special arrangements and menu options.
Choose a theme or dress code
Setting a theme or dress code is a great way to get people excited and create a cohesive event. From choosing a colour palette for decor to posing a costume party, a common thread can help to create atmosphere. Use Instagram or Pinterest to find inspiration and pull together a mood board to keep you on track. You might also look back on past events that you and your friends have hosted to get ideas for entertainment.
Create a programme for the occasion
Even a brief itinerary or plan for the event is a good way to make sure all your guests know what to expect and don’t miss out on any of the festivities. If it's an occasion that calls for speeches, set aside time for formalities and keep any speakers on track. Spacing starters, mains and dessert appropriately is important to make sure everyone is well fed. And if you have a band or DJ booked, it sometimes makes sense to clear away tables after dinner to create space for a dance floor. Often venues will have a closing time that you should take into account so that people can plan for an after party or organise transport home.
Find a fabulous outfit
Last but certainly not least, don’t forget about planning the perfect attire. If you’ve set a theme or dress code, use your outfit as an opportunity to set the tone for other guests.
A dazzling cocktail design, like the Checkerboard Sequin Event Dress or High Voltage Slip Dress, is perfect for evening events. You can also dance the night away in the Material Girls and Talking Point mini dresses.
Tailored two-piece sets, such as the Editor’s Pick Blazer and coordinating pants or the Tailor Made suit, bring sophisticated edge to
dinner parties and more intimate occasions.
The key to mastering the art of hosting with stress-free style is to have a plan but also be prepared for any obstacles that might pop up. Remember that having fun is the goal of the event, and while it's great to pay attention to the details, being able to relax and enjoy time with your friends and family is what’s most important. Look to MANNING CARTELL’s range of party-ready outfits for inspiration and be the host with the most in the best dress.