I don’t know if you all know this, but I am computer-illiterate and not a full advocate of it, though I know it is needed. I had a dinner party two nights ago, and in planning my menu I went through my 45 cookbooks looking for a recipe for filet mignon…but I wasn’t able to find one (even if there was one somewhere). I sat down with Matthew, and he was able to quickly Google seven recipes with six different sauces, and a recipe for snap peas – which made the menu a snap! The meal turned out wonderfully. Here’s a picture of the table setting.
When I have one of my very rare dinner parties I like to really mix people who may have something in common but are not friends – it is always good to have someone sitting at either side of you, who have similar interests (and always split the couples). Also, be very free with the liquor.
Here are links to the filet mignon roast and sugar snap pea recipes:
Filet Mignon Roast with Horseradish
Do you any of you out there have any suggestions for making a dinner party successful?
Flattering, calm, beautiful lighting, a drink in the hand in a pretty glass within minutes of arrival, and a relaxed, happy host. I like your guest list idea, and no more than 6-8 at a round table. I have two round dining tables and am always at a loss when it comes to tabletop design. Can you give me some ideas?
Make the food and while making it imbue it with lot’s of love from your heart, the food will taste ten times better..
And a lovely table setting like yours is extending the love to all the elements..
xo
m
Lovely table and good suggestions. Thanks for the recipes and, most of all, have a good time.
Best…Victoria
Beautiful setting. I usually do not do a table setting anymore as I like to keep it free and easy and comforting like the food and the people. When I visit my parnets we usually eat around the television, this is what we do, it’s as if tradition. I look forward to this and thus share this tradition with friends but usually without the television. ~be well
The light on the table makes it so inviting. Love the tablecloth: it gives movement to the table and makes it less anchored. And yet the shape of the table, the beautiful large plates and the chairs ground absolutely everything. Thank you for sharing this delightful moment.
Good music, good wines, unusual dishes served in unexpected dishes (glasses instead of plates, over sized plates, wines in carafes…) and mostly being oneself. Not pretending, not showing off. Just being simple and making sure conversation flows. Inviting people from completely different backgrounds, listening to one’s guests, asking questions, changing seats at dessert time so that one gets a chance to talk to everyone. Being attentive to each guest’s needs. This is what hopefully could make a dinner party successful! Thank you for asking! You probably did not ask for so much!~
I’m just thinking about how long it must have taken you to go through 45 cookbooks! Even though it’s quick to google, I still like looking through my cookbooks. Love your table setting. I don’t have any tips to share as I would rather be invited to a dinner party than be the host!
YUM! And the table is beautiful. I find some of my best recipes online.
The table set-up looks brilliant with the patterned tablecloth and flower arrangement in the middle. When thinking about dinner party suggestions, always make sure you keep your guests entertained in between courses whilst you are out of the room cooking in whatever way you feel appropriate.
Vicente,
lovely. thanks for sharing the recipes too. one tip I have is never be afraid to open your home and share even the simplest meal with those you admire, adore and cherish. I think even a “pot luck” can be fun to host. I have had two dinners in less than 2 weeks for 16 and have to admit, if we do not use it, it tarnishes….it fades and things always need to shine!
love giada’s for easy and elegant recipes.
pve
Lovely setting but could you give a little more elbow room- it seems so crowded. Personally I don’t like to rub shoulders while I am eating-at least not at a dinner party.