Secrets Of A Perfect Dinner Party: From Party Themes To Decor And Entertainment Ideas

The roots of the today's dinner party can be found in ancient Greece and Rome, where senators gathered to discuss the current affairs over a feast with numerous courses. The most famous dinner parties were thrown by emperors who created elaborate menus with live entertainment. Over time, dinner parties became more formal, with complicated etiquette around guest lists, dress code, serving food and entertaining guests.

Between 1500 – 1800, dinner parties were hosted in permanent dining rooms – a common feature in the houses of wealthy people. By the Victorian era, complex rules were established. For example, there were separate plates for every possible food, speciality glassware and different cutlery for every course, and strict seating charts to arrange guests around the table. Even the range of topics that could be discussed was defined. Being able to arrange such a complex dinner party was a sign of wealth and belonging to the upper classes.

In the late 19th century the dinner parties became more relaxed. Many more housewives from the middle classes could afford to host a glamorous dinner party in their homes. By the 1950s, dinner parties became one of the main forms of entertainment. Party hosts focused on selecting ideal guests and pairing them around the table to ensure everybody enjoyed lively and invigorating discussions.

In the era of the Millennials, the media proclaimed the death of dinner parties. Young adults often don't have money, time or space to arrange elaborate soirees. Instead, they opt for more casual gatherings with good friends. From a status event and an ideal of elegance and sophistication, dinner parties became simple gatherings. A potluck format of the party emerges: now guests are asked to bring their own food and beverages.

However, at Chaika Events, we believe that the elegant and sophisticated dinner parties of the past are relevant for the 21st century. That's why we're offering you some ideas and tips for planning a perfect dinner party to wow and amaze your guests.

Think of a theme for the party. Martha Stewart suggests getting inspired by the main course you choose. Arrange the whole evening around this theme, thinking through drinks choices, table decor, tableware and cutlery, and even background music to enhance the theme. For example, Martha suggests serving food in naan wraps instead of on traditional plates and arranging low seating with plenty of rugs and pillows.

We would also add some oriental home fragrances and aroma candles to set the right mood for the evening, and choose an Indian-themed playlist. For entertainment, we would choose Indian dancers or exotic acts, such as sword swallowing or snake charming. If it' a girls' night, why not to add on a mehendi parlour, where every guest can get a stylish Indian temporary tattoo?

Here are some other popular themes for a summer party in 2020:

Roaring 1920s
The Golden Age of Jazz suggests a Gatsby-styled party, possibly an all-time favourite. At our recent dinner party with a Gatsby theme, we styled the room with tall flower arrangements of blush pink and peach roses, added some elegant matching candles, and set the mood with live jazz music and a fine dinner served to guests at one of the most beautiful London hotels, The Lanesborough. However, we can re-create the same dazzling atmosphere at any other location, both indoors or outdoors.