nail the dinner party

Keen to nail the perfect dinner party & want to impress your guests as the ultimate host? Make it difficult for your friends to compete with these hot tips. Prepare in advance, leave enough time and don't be afraid to ask for help. Here are my Top 5 to make entertaining a success.

1. Sort the table setting

Table decor can make a big impression - placemats, vases that showcase your styling skills. This is the time to really make a statement - plus people love a good excuse for an instagram photo.

2. Plan the menu

Wow your guests with a meal they rave about for weeks. And you simply must have 2-3 courses. Everyone loves dessert!

3. Sort the alcohol

Plan ahead with what goes best with the dishes you're serving. Always a good tip to have a red option and a white option. White, cocktails or bubbles - make sure you have the glasses on hand for what your guests are bringing or what you're serving.

4. Work out the lighting

Lamps, candles or ceiling lights - it's all about the harmonious level of lighting.

5. Plan the music

Create a playlist ahead of time on your iPod for subtle background music. Good conversation is the key to a great dinner party but it sets the mood to have low level music in the background. Have music on standby from the TV or a stereo.