A few weeks ago, I hosted a Citrus-Inspired Dinner Party because every season I'm holding myself to the goal of hosting a seasonally inspired dinner party. I started this last Summer and it has been one of the best moments each season - something I know plan and look forward to months in advance! It's a time to catch up with the girls, laugh over old memories, and maybe even spill some tea 🤫
When planning out my Winter Dinner Party for 2024, I went between two themes: (1) super cozy vibes or (2) bright citrus vibes. And since North Carolina's weather has been warming up for a potentially early Spring, I thought the later seemed perfect! However, if I was in a much colder state, I would probably go with the cozy vibes, creating a menu that made you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
How to Host a Winter Dinner Party:
Step 1: Plan the Menu
My goal with every menu is as follows:
1 Appetizer (something everyone will love - very much a "crowd pleasing" recipe)
2 Side Dishes (something veggie-related and the other carb/bread related)
1 Protein-Focused Entree (something with enough "meat" so everyone leaves satisfied)
1 Showstopper Dessert (and it doesn't necessarily need to be hard to make!!)
Of course, you could always make it pot luck style where everyone brings a dish (or an assigned category dish). You could also add more food than this; however, this is just my baseline for hosting the perfect dinner party menu.
Think about the time it'll take you to create each recipe, then see where the recipes can overlap. Such as, while I roast the chicken, I'll work on frosting the cake and making the shaved Brussel sprouts salad. Or maybe the chicken can be roasted the same time as the carrot shuffle is being baked (you may just need to bake less time).
Can anything be made in advance? I always make my cakes the day prior so save me time and mess the day of the dinner party. I also will prep things such as casseroles, baked goods, Mac n cheese, anything repeatable-friendly the day prior, as well.
Don't put the pressure on yourself, because everything will work out just fine! The biggest flex in hosting a dinner party is being able to do it while having fun!! Your friends and family are coming over to spend time with you - the food is just a plus ;)
Step 3: Plan the Tablescape
Let your creative juices flow! You can start by using pieces you have around the house to see what works best on the table. For example, I have a gold candlestick set I thrifted a while back that I always move to my dinner table when having guests. You can also find little knick knacks like plastic disco balls or using a thrifted vase to add character to your florals.
Think of the basics. Don't try to over complicate the table, something the basics work just as good! Think about the dinner and/or dessert plates, drink ware, serving ware, easting utensils, napkins (or paper towels), and maybe even a water pitcher so you don't keep getting up in the middle of eating.
This dinner party, I hosted a Mini Canvas Art Painting Activity - which was so fun!!
Here is everything I find from Amazon to use for it:
I truly hope you all enjoy this treasured recipe that has nestled its way into our hearts here in the ABM kitchen! ’till next time… xxL
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If you loved this delicious recipe I would truly appreciate it so much if you would give a star review! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram - tagging me @brightmomentco. It always makes my day seeing y’alls creations!
“"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~ Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
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Hey, I’m Lauren!
Welcome! The recipes you’ll find here are inspired by seasonal ingredients, generations-old family recipes, and places I’ve grown to love most. My hope is to inspire you inside the kitchen with a love for home-cooked foods, as well as outside the kitchen since everyday is another chance to make a bright moment in someone's life ;)
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