Dinner party season is in full swing. Whether you’re preparing an outdoor event or an intimate gathering indoors, it’s the perfect time to revamp your hosting routine. Creating a memorable dinner party means thinking outside of the box while embracing traditional elements. Guests are looking forward to an experience to remember, and with a handful of chic dinner party ideas, you can create something they’ll never forget.

If you’re a seasoned professional, you know elements like lighting and table decor are essential for creating the mood. But there are a few other tricks that can take your soiree to the next level. Upgrading your dishes from basic and boring to stylish and contemporary, for example, is a great way to elevate your table. Opting for unique flower centerpieces can also deliver an effortless look. Regardless of the number of people invited, the menu should stand out. After all, what’s a dinner party without tasty bites and beverages to pair with them?

If you’re ready to kick your hosting skills up a notch, see the ideas below that will make your dinner party a night to remember.

@champagneangofficial

Charcuterie just got a major upgrade 🧀🫒✨ This feta olive checkerboard is the easiest way to impress with minimal effort—salty, savory, and perfect for snacking. Serve it up as a show-stopping app or elevate your next snack board. Feta Olive Checkerboard: 🧀 Alternate cubes of feta with your favorite olives on a flat board to create that checker pattern 🫒 Drizzle with high-quality olive oil 🌶️ Sprinkle with chili flakes and flaky salt Tip: Use a soft feta block (not crumbled) for clean lines and pair with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It’s a vibe—tag a friend who would be all over this ⬇️ #charcuterieinspo #easystarters #viralappetizer #snackboardideas #easyentertaining #foodstyling #homecookingideas #easyappetizers #cheeseboardideas

♬ With You (feat. Omah Lay) – Davido

Make a Chic Appetizer

If you enjoy hosting, you’ve probably seen this viral appetizer on your feed before. Despite its trendy appeal, it’s become a popular dish at parties for good reason. It’s made from pantry and cooking staples, jarred olives and feta cubes, and is easy to assemble. The chic checkerboard design is also incredibly stylish and fitting for many design aesthetics. Plus, the compact size makes it ideal for quick gatherings or a late-night snack.

@marbieskitchen

Gorgeous-gorgeous girls collect gorgeous-gorgeous plates from @roseandgreyinteriors The Pearl Dinnerware from Costa Nova made in Portugal is one of my favs that I’ve collected over the past few years and recently I’ve added the bread plates, round serving dish (which I shared in my newsletter in Feb) and the salad plates to my collection. Honestly getting quality pieces that you know are going to last you is always worth it! Head over to @roseandgreyinteriors to grab these before they run out 😩 Love, Marbie (Some pieces kindly gifted by @roseandgreyinteriors 🥹) #dinnerparties #dinnerware #dinnerpartydecor #crockerylove #crockerycollection #crockery

♬ original sound – Modern Day Martha Stewart

Use Elevated Dishes

White plates and dishes are a classic choice for dinner parties, simply because they pair well with almost everything. Still, that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Upgrading your basic white dishes to a set with delicate details and stylish elements can elevate your table setting and your event. They’re also a great way to zhuzh up weeknight meals, giving them a special feel.

@akilahrelefordgould

Um…cocktails just got a lot cuter? 🤔 #hosting #farmtotable #eldestdaughter #homemaker #blackgirltiktok #lifestyle #dinnerparty #entertaining

♬ original sound – Akilah Releford- Gould

Serve a Cute Mocktail

Cocktails are common at dinner parties. But you don’t want to forget about your guests who don’t partake in drinking. Offering a stylish mocktail that complements the theme and events of the evening will go a long way. Fresh ingredients are essential for well-balanced cocktails, and they have the same effect with non-alcoholic drinks. Try using freshly squeezed juices and incorporate stylish, organic elements, such as dried citrus wheels and edible flowers. Then finish in a cocktail glass for a sophisticated look.

@jas.olivia

my love language is hosting dinner parties & thanks to @Pooky Lighting wireless rechargeable scoon my table set-up has never looked so good! AD💡🎀🫶🏼♥️ #hosting #dinnerparty #tableware #wirelesslamps #pookylights

♬ This Will Be – audios4you

Swap Candles for Lamps

The right lighting doesn’t just set the mood; it creates ambiance and enhances the tone of the evening. A soft glow or warm amber lighting is the perfect choice for a dinner party. Instead of using candles to create the effect, consider adding a sleek touch lamp to the table. A lengthy style with a small shade draws the eye up and provides ample lighting for an intimate event. Plus, they can double as decor.

@homewithfarah

Setting the table for my mom’s birthday dinner ❤️

♬ Everything will be ok – Sonam

Take Advantage of Small Flower Vases

Small flower vases make a big statement when arranged together. Despite having a few stems or, in many cases, just one, they can create a bold display while remaining effortlessly chic. Look for glass vases in clear or light-toned colors, and opt for a mix of different heights to add dimension to the centerpiece. While you can use different colored flowers, sticking to a limited palette with one or two shades will create a more cohesive look.

@projects.studio

DIY festive season place card ideas 🎀 Hosting season is upon us and feel there are so many fun ways to make your christmas/holiday table personalised through simple DIY ideas! I have only just discovered this silver acrylic ink and I am obsessed!!! It’s so pigmented and exactly the vibe i want for my diy place cards/festive season dinner party setting this year 🥰 – – – (This was part of content creation for In The Round House, full styling video coming soon!!) 🏷️ DIY place card ideas, table setting, table details, tablescape ideas, table setting for the festive season, happy holiday table setting, tablescape ideas, dinner party styling, dinner party hosting, hosting festive season, hosting era, art dinner party ideas, seafood themed dinner, handmade name cards, diy tips for hosting, tablesetting diy tips

♬ original sound – Officially log out 11/17/22

Get Creative with Place Cards

Sure, place cards are optional, but if you have the time, they can be a nice touch your guests will remember. There are lots of different styles and variations, including fancy holders. However, a simple card with a beautiful script and handwritten message or design works just fine.