Keep the guest list to a minimum of 6 to 8 people at a dinner party.
No matter how good the acoustics are, the noise level of a larger group makes it too hard to have a conversation with another person.
During cocktail hour, the host should introduce guests to one another.
Do this by mentioning something about the people you’re introducing: “This is John Green. He’s a lawyer, and he’s a photographer. And this is Amy Smith, a gallerist in San Francisco.” That way, the two people can start a conversation on their own. It’s all about connectivity.
Keep the centerpiece under 14 inches high.
If not, the view and conversation will be blocked.
Use interesting place cards to make dinner fun.
At my last party, I used mini silver frames with photos of celebrities resembling my guests as place cards (without names) and let the guests find their own seats. My friend Bill is a dead ringer for Spencer Tracy.
Mix up the table guests (and conversation) up by seating a shy person next to a gregarious person.
This way no one will ever get bored.
If there is a Guest of Honor, he or she should be seated to the right of the host.
This is known as the seat of honor. If there is a second guest of honor, they are seated to the host’s left.
Don’t be afraid to let the guests know when the evening should end.
Oftentimes, guests do not know when to leave, or are afraid to say it’s time to relieve the babysitter, etc. As a host, it’s up to you to set the pace. You can suggest leaving the table for a nightcap which will give a signal for guests to depart if they need to.
Never seat spouses next to one another.
Exception: a couple is dating or newly engaged.
Take note whether or not guests are enjoying their time.
If you sense a guest is uncomfortable (they’re not eating or conversing), offer up a solution without involving others.
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