Checklist for a dinner party

It's official: dining in is the new going out.
More and more people are dining at home and inviting their friends rather than going out. It saves money and in these difficult times this is important. Many people are finding it is actually more enjoyable than going out. You take turns to to cook. Even when it is your turn to play host it can be fun. Just keep it simple and plan well.
Check list for a successful dinner party

1. Plan carefully who you will invite and what you will eat.
2. Choose people who will get on well together.
3. Check on their likes and dislikes, allegies etc.
4. Pick a time convenient to them and to yourself.
5. Choose a menu which is really simple to do.
6. Work out a time table, allowing time for pre dinner drinks.
7. Make out shopping lists.
8. Buy the meat from a good butcher. Make sure vegetables are really fresh.
9. Make sure you have plenty of wine.
10. Check you have enough plates, glasses, a salt and pepper pot, cutlery, serving dishes, serving cutlery. Have candles ready for subdued lighting.
11. Prepare as much as you can the day before.
12. Set your table early in the evening allowing plenty of time.
13. Have a tray of drinks ready for pre dinner drinks.
14. Have an ice bucket with ice cubes and tongs on the tray. Also slices of lemon, a bottle opener and corkscrew.
15. Open red wine so it can breathe.
16. Prepare your cheese board and make sure cheese is out of the fridge. Don't forget a cheese knife. Put butter in a dish out of the fridge and add a butter knife.
17. Put a jug of water on the tables. Add a little posey of flowers or a decoration.

That's it! You're all set! Enjoy your evening!

Eat, Drink and Be Merry