5 hacks to host a perfect party 

Each weekend can be a blast of gatherings, from friends to family. While the day is meant for cherishing moments with loved ones, it's also an opportunity to impress guests with a spread of delicious food.  

5 Tips To Help Plan The Perfect Dinner Party 

Consider your guest list  Image Credit: Freepik

Before you start planning the menu, take a moment to review your guest list. Are there any food allergies or dietary preferences you should keep in mind? Even if you think you know what everyone likes, a quick check never hurts. Otherwise, you can keep your bar stocked with versatile spirits like rum, vodka, whiskey and tequila, plus a variety of bubbly and still beverages. And be sure to have non-alcoholic options on hand too, like Seedlip's line of zero-proof spirits. That way, any guests abstaining from alcohol can still feel included in the festivities. The key is accommodating all your guests, so everyone can enjoy themselves at your dinner party. 

Plan The Menu Before hand Image Credit: Freepik

Dinner parties don't have to be stressful—with some advance planning, you can keep things simple yet delicious. Start with an easy salad of mixed greens, seasonal fruits, and a tangy citrus dressing. Get that prepared early so you can focus on your guests when they arrive. The main event? Herb-roasted chicken with garlicky mashed potatoes and veggies. Just marinate the chicken the night before and do some prep for the sides. Then it's an easy assemble when it's gone time. End the night on a sweet note with classic chocolate mousse made ahead of time. With a little prep work done in advance, you can relax and enjoy a wonderful dinner with friends—without feeling frazzled. The food will be flavourful, and the company will be even better. 

Plan Signature Drink Image Credit: Freepik

Add a personal touch to your get-together by designing a signature cocktail. Consider using seasonal ingredients like berries, stone fruits, or warm spices in combination with rich spirits like brandy or bourbon. A hot buttered rum made with 59.15 ml (about 2 oz) of spiced rum, a spoonful of melted butter, a spoonful of brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg is the perfect warming beverage. This special drink can serve as a conversation starter and leave a lasting impression on your guests. By crafting a custom cocktail, you'll make your dinner party feel special and intimate. The aroma and flavour s will delight your guests' senses and become a memorable part of the evening. 

Set up a Dinner Station  Image Credit: Freepik

It's easy to make your guests feel at home by setting up self-serve stations around the party. Rather than catering to every request, create a relaxed vibe where people can help themselves. Arrange charcuterie boards and small bites so guests can graze as they mingle. Set up a drink station stocked with batched cocktails, garnishes, ice and glassware. Let your friends mix up their own drinks just how they like them. When you empower your guests to serve themselves, they'll feel more involved in the festivities. Keeping things casual and communal makes hosting less hectic for you. More importantly, it allows your guests to kick back and enjoy the party at their own pace. 

Match Drinks with Food Image Credit: Freepik

The star of the meal is usually the food, but it’s essential to pair up your drink menu to make every flavour shine. For heartier main courses, stick with more robust, aromatic spirits or wines. But for lighter courses, especially those with citrus or herbal notes, explore gin cocktails that complement the nuanced flavours. Gordon's London Dry Gin and Tanqueray No. 10 make excellent bases for sophisticated yet refreshing libations. Focus on harmonizing flavours and textures to create an unforgettable dining experience from start to finish. Play with botanicals, citrus fruits, herbs, and other ingredients to craft custom cocktails that dance with each dish. With the right pairings, you can take your meal from great to extraordinary.