my FAVORITE DINNER PARTY

“This year I hosted influencers at my home to celebrate our Alfresco Collection. I did everything myself from the flowers to the menu. I planned so far in advance that I was able to feel relaxed during it.”

Laura's Entertainment Tips

PLAN AHEAD 

Do absolutely everything you possibly can to organize yourself the week leading up to your dinner. Select your plates, platters, and serving pieces, and label them all. Plan your menu and make sure you have every item you need. Set your table, arrange your flowers, place your candles. Don’t leave anything until the day of that you could have done the days before! This way you can totally relax and enjoy your guests.

ASSIGN SEATS 

Always use place cards (even if it’s a family dinner) to ensure that everyone is sitting next to someone they will enjoy for the evening, be it catching up with old friends, family members, or meeting someone new. It’s always so awkward not knowing where to sit. And God forbid Aunt Collette gets left sitting next to the children!
MAKE the MENU UNQIUE
Be sure to serve the unusual, the unexpected—a dish or two no one has ever seen before. It’s really boring to sit down to a plate of baked salmon or filet mignon. The only exception is Thanksgiving! That holiday is all about tradition so don’t let anyone down. Give them what they are expecting—but you can always do it with a twist. Pinterest is a great place to find interesting new recipes.

DO A RECIPE TEST RUN

Always serve a dish you have tried beforehand. It’s so important to make sure your guests are indulged with delicious food. It’s funny how recipes and photos can look amazing and appear to be so good, but when you try them, not so much.

CREATE INTERESTING CONVERSATION 

Always toss out a fascinating question for the table to answer. Start with yourself and go around the table having everyone participate. You will be amazed at how the conversation evolves–and how fascinated you will be by everyone’s answer. It will make the evening memorable—I promise!

The Slatkin’s Famous Caviar Dip

DOWNLOAD THE RECIPE
Make It An Indulgent Season

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The Scents That Define The Season
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