Photo courtesy of Ben Q Photography
I love the phrase ‘dinner party’ – it conjures up images of trays of martinis and girls in full skirts sitting down to a meal full of delicious things and intelligent, sparkling conversation. Whether that fits with your mental image of a dinner party or not, I find that one of the trickiest parts of dinner party planning (after the guest list!) is location. Here’s a few fun options to consider when planning your next shindig!
Photo courtesy of Jeremy Minnerick Photography
At home
Traditionally, this is where we’d expect a dinner party to occur, right? Whether it takes place in the formal dining room, around the kitchen table, or on the floor adjacent to the coffee table, having your dinner party at home gives it a personal touch. Keep in mind that the size of your home (and potentially the number of seats) may limit the size of your party. Home can be a lovely choice for either formal or informal occasions. I love doing small parties at home because I love trying out new recipes on willing victims, but you can certainly cater in with delivered food or turn your kitchen over to a professional chef so you can wow your friends!
Photo courtesy of Leslie Spurlock Photography
In a restaurant
Let someone else do the hard work! Pick your favorite restaurant and invite your friends out for a night of tasty food and revelry. Many restaurants have great little private rooms, depending on the size of your party, like glass-walled wine rooms or even a private upper deck. A restaurant is certainly a great choice when you’re thinking of a larger crew. The only downside is that you will have little to no control over the aesthetic – so find a place you love the look and feel of as well as the menu!
Photo courtesy of Katie Cassidy Photography
Venue space
We have some wonderful petite spaces here in DFW that would be super fun for a dinner party – think independent galleries, smaller venues (or smaller rooms within a larger venue), and rentals for creatives! In some ways this is the best of both worlds – you have control over the menu and the aesthetics, but you don’t have to scrub your bathrooms ahead of time. It’s likely you will need to bring in everything from linens and napkins to salt and pepper shakers, but you can make it truly reflect the vibe you want! Venues also offer flexibility when it comes to guest count.
Photo courtesy of Autumn Light Photography
Take it outside
Have a picnic dinner party! Find a fun park, or do an early dinner at the Dallas Arboretum. You may have to do after dinner drinks to align with alcohol restrictions in a public place, but what a fun way to enjoy the good weather while it’s here. No heating necessary – food can be pre-packed and chilled until served. Also, if you ever wanted an excuse to buy the premium Williams Sonoma picnic basket… well, you’re welcome.
Having trouble figuring out your next dinner party? We’d be happy to help – just reach out!
