Oct 164 min read

How to host a fabulous dinner party this Festive Season

We are fast heading into the wonderful season of Christmas Parties and end of year celebrations. It's a great time to consider giving back to your favorite charity by hosting your celebration with a fundraising component, to share some love with those who need it.

My Giving Table can help by setting up your invitation and RSVP link, so it's easy to invite friends to your gathering.

Did you know we can tailor your ticket link to include an option of no donation necessary, so you don't feel you are pressuring your friends to contribute? We find with this option people who can give more do and those who can't are not excluded from attending. You get to share your hospitality easily and your favorite charity gets some love as well. It's a win win.

To get us ready for special get togethers we have asked fabulous host and stylist Mia Elizabeth to share her tips.

How I Throw a Fabulous Lunch or Dinner Party

Pick a Date
I start by picking a date. I usually plan 3-6 weeks ahead, depending on whether the party is going to be more elaborate or just a casual get-together.
Send a 'Save the Date'
Before sending out the official invites, I drop a casual 'save the date' text to give everyone a little teaser about the party. It’s a fun way to give my friends a heads-up and get them excited about the event!
Pick a Theme
Time to get creative! I choose a theme that makes the party stand out. Whether it’s a color scheme, a current holiday, inspired by a certain city or era, or a tribute to a famous restaurant, having a theme sets the tone and makes everything more fun.
Plan the Menu
With the theme in mind, I start planning the menu. What delicious food and drinks will I serve? I think about how much cooking I want to do and if I want to make it a shared experience where my friends bring their own tasty contributions.
Style the Table
Once I have decided on a menu, I will know if I am going to serve it on the table, buffet style or bring out plates. This will determine how much styling and layers of decor I actually have on the table.
Create and Send Invites
Once I’ve got my theme and vibe sorted, I design my invitations to match. I use InDesign or Canva. I send them out digitally and make sure to set an RSVP date that gives me at least a week to finalise the guest list. Tip My giving Table makes this easy by creating the event link that is easy to share by text or email and has all the important information I want included.
Pick an Outfit
I choose an outfit that fits the party theme. Whether I’m shopping for something new or picking something from my wardrobe, I make sure my look complements the party’s style.
Get Any Extra Decor
If I need any extra decorations, I go shopping for them. I love checking out stores like Spotlight, Target, Kmart, Big W, and even secondhand shops for unique finds that fit my theme perfectly.
Confirm the Guest List and Make Place Cards
About a week before the party, I follow up with my guests to confirm who’s coming. Once I’ve got the final headcount, I create fun place cards and get them printed at Officeworks or a local print shop.
Curate a Playlist
Music sets the mood, so I create a playlist on Spotify that fits my theme or find a pre-made playlist that matches the ambiance I am aiming for. Music should enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation.
Shop for Food, Drinks, and Flowers
A day or two before the event, I head out to buy food, drinks, and flowers. I usually go to local markets and supermarkets, but for something extra special, I might splurge at my favorite florist.
Set the Table and Prep Food
If I can, I set the table the night before. I make sure everything is polished, pressed, and ready to go. If time is tight, I at least prep the decor and table setup so I can quickly assemble it on the day.
Final Prep Time
On the big day, I finish any food preparation, chill the drinks, and then I get myself all glammed up, I make sure everything is in place so I can enjoy the party too!
Add the Final Touches
Just before my guests arrive, I turn on the playlist and light the candles. This creates the perfect ambiance and ensures the candles last through the party. Then, I pour myself a drink, take a deep breath, and get ready to have an amazing time!