Ah, the dining table—the true heart of the dinner party. Eating, drinking, laughing, sharing stories. A lot of planning goes into a dinner party—let’s dive into how to create the perfect setup for your guests.

Pick a Theme

First things first: lock in a theme. This will inform your entire planning process, from decorations to tableware. So, what are your options? The big themes are casual, elegant, and festive. If you’re going more formal, consider whites and golds, where in a more relaxed setting you can go a bit more wild with the colours.

To Linen or Not to Linen

If you’re hosting, chances are your table will be covered in spills by the night’s end, so a tablecloth is a wise choice. It’ll not only protect your table, but if you pick the right one, it can enhance the vibe. And don’t forget napkins. You can choose to impress with creative folds, or leave them folded up and flat.

Curate Your Tableware

Your plates should reflect your theme, so avoid the “I just grabbed whatever’s in the cupboard” look. Layer different sizes for each course: a large plate for the main event and smaller ones for appetisers and desserts. Match your glassware to your drinks—this whole listicle could instead be about what wines go best with what glass! As for cutlery, don’t stress unless you’re going full-on formal. You can also get creative with thrifted tableware.

Striking Centrepieces

Your centrepiece is the crown jewel of your table. Arrangements can be as simple as greenery from your garden or striking fruit and vegetables, through to a curated collection from your local florist. Make sure they’re not too tall—your guests want to see each other. For a warm, intimate vibe, candles are perfect but skip the scented variety. Seasonal decorations or quirky heir­looms are also good choices.

Prioritise Guest Comfort

Comfort is crucial for enjoying a meal. Ensure there’s enough space between place settings so guests can move around freely. Keep shared items like salt, pepper, and condiments within easy reach.

The Finishing Touches

Finally, it’s the little details that make a big impact. Personalised place cards not only help with seating arrangements but also add a thoughtful touch. As you wrap up your setup, think about the atmosphere: a good music playlist and dimmed lighting will solidify the mood.