One of the things I love about the fall is the excuse to have dinner parties and family gatherings. With the help of Pinterest, there are tons of tablescape ideas and recipes to try, but let’s be honest…all that inspiration can be a bit overwhelming—especially if you are living in a relatively small apartment!
Today, I’m sharing three quick and easy tips for hosting a FABULOUS dinner party that doesn’t require a ton of space OR money!
Tip #1: Set The Mood With An Eye-Catching Table Display!
If you are lucky enough to have a dedicated dining area and dining room table, take advantage of this space by creating a colorful, layered table with the help of linens, dinner plates, salad plates and napkins. Fresh flowers from the local supermarket take on a new life when placed in a beautiful vase!
If you don’t have a dining room or dining table, you can rent and cover a collapsible round table from your local party rental store! This will give you a place to set up your food display, and the best part is that you don’t have to worry about where to store it when you are done because it’s a rental!
Tip #2: Trick of Lighting
It is often said that candle light is the most flattering light, so pick up a few candle sticks from your local craft store or grab a few candle votives from your nearest home accent store. Sprinkle them throughout your space to create a warm, inviting glow.
Another trick is to purchase dimmers from your local hardware store, and put all of your overhead lighting and lamps on dimmers to give you control over how bright your space is.
Tip #3: Bite-Sized Servings Are Best
Since space and seating might be limited depending on the number of guests who’ll be attending your dinner party, make things easy for your guests and for yourself by serving up appetizers and desserts that are bite-sized and can easily fit on small plates. This will allow your guests to nosh on your tasty treats, no need to sit down and brandish a fork, knife or spoon!
I probably don’t have to tell you this, but there are TONS of small plate, appetizer and dessert ideas on Pinterest. Do a quick search and pin to your heart’s desire. Just be sure to try out your recipes before the day of your dinner party. You don’t want to wind up in the “Pinterest Fail” Hall of Fame!
I hope you found these tips helpful and that you have lots of opportunities to use them soon! Go ahead, invite a few friends over and enjoy a night of food, fellowship and fun. You’ll look like a savvy host/hostess and they’ll think you’re a Rock Star!
For more helpful tips, visit the ForRent.com Apartment Living Blog!