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Dinner parties are often thought of as high-stress endeavors for the host, but they don’t have to be. Bringing people together around a table of food and drink should be fun for everyone and we’re here to show you how to do it. Below are some ideas on how to get the ball rolling and keep it fun, light and entertaining.

 

Add a theme to your party. We often think of children’s parties when we think party themes, but adults love a well put together party theme as well. A theme gives context to food choices, alcohol pairings and décor. It makes a dinner experience fun and memorable. Choose something fun and easy such as a Hawaiian Luau, a Cuban - Havana Nights theme, Crawfish Boil or Chili tasting. Dinner party themes can also create very elegant gatherings by choosing a theme such as an Autumn Dinner or Mediterranean. Grouping food styles, wines from the area or time period, and decorations can really tie together an event.

 

Activities. There are some very creative ways that you can engage your guests and get them talking. For example, set up a whiskey or wine tasting for your guests. Many of our ABS staff are Certified Bourbon Stewards or have advanced wine training and can help set up a comparative tasting. Into vodka? Have guests’ blind taste flavored vodkas to see if they can identify what its infused with.

 

Some other ways to keep things exciting are to play games. Murder mystery games can engage your friends for a whole evening. There are many to choose from and they often include scripts, character descriptions and clues. You can play adult board games, Pictionary or a card game. 

 

Make up conversation cards, asking quirky questions, and tuck one under each plate. Encourage guests to read them aloud and go around the table for each guest to answer. It’s a fun way to get the ball rolling and engage people. React and Act is another game you can play at the table. Guests act out a situation without using words and others have to guess what the situation is, such as winning the lottery, falling in love or being chased by a ravenous animal. You can set up teams or select volunteers. Set a time limit of 30 seconds to a minute.

 

The Perfect Pairing. Parings can make or break a culinary experience and ABS staff are well trained and can make recommendations based on your menu. They can also estimate how much you will need whether it’s a dinner party for 4 or 40. Don’t be shy to ask for a store manager to help you select something that will compliment your dish and dazzle your guests. Find your closest retail store here.

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