Anyone who has hosted a dinner party for their vinas knows it’s a tricky balancing act between pleasing your pals and having fun of your own. We say, why not do both? Follow these helpful hints, and before you know it, you’ll be the hostess with the mostest.

PICK GUESTS WITH PURPOSE

This sounds harsh, but essentially, only invite people whom know each other well and get along. The last thing you want while finishing meal prep is feeling like you took the conversation with you when you entered the kitchen. With partygoers who can entertain each other, you’ll have time to focus on the main event—dinner.

STICK TO YOUR SPECIALTIES

Although it may seem tempting to try and master the dish you just saw on Master Chef, it’s best to go with what you know. How about the delicious casserole you’ve been making since college? Or the cake you’ve been baking with your mom since childhood? If you’ve kept these dishes in your recipe book for that long, there must be a good reason why.

BE MINDFUL OF ALLERGIES, BUT NOT TOO MINDFUL

It seems like everyone is vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose intolerant, or some variation these days. Yes, it’s important to be conscientious of your guests’ unique needs—if your vina has celiac disease, maybe don’t serve pasta as the main course. But if you try too hard to please everyone, you’ll end up making as many dishes as there are guests. Plus, people with dietary restrictions are used to making adjustments when eating out.

PREP AHEAD

Prepare as much as you can before the event even begins. Strategically select recipes that include instructions on how to “plan ahead” and indicate the dish can be made a day or two in advance. Also, desserts, such as cheesecake, can be made the night before, which checks a whole course off of your to-do list. The less time you spend in the kitchen during the party is more time you’ll get to spend around the table with your vinas.

DITCH DISTRACTIONS

Got a bunch of kiddos who are sure to cause chaos? Hire a sitter, or promise a friend an IOU and plan a sleepover at their house. Pups that won’t quit begging at the table? Drop them off at doggie daycare for the evening. An S.O. who’s going to infringe on girl’s night? Suggest alternative plans, such as going out to dinner with their own group of friends. You’ll be so much more at ease knowing it’s just you and your besties.

How do you throw a to-die-for dinner party? Let us know in the comments!

(Featured image via 100layercake.com)