1. Set a theme if you want.
Set a theme, it can be random. You could do a regional theme & dress up accordingly for some fun (Mexican). You could do a colour theme (purple dishes). You could do an ingredient theme (i.e. all dishes have a hint of eggplant). You could do a round the world menu. For Christmas last year we picked two pieces of paper out of a hat with family and we had to then host a dinner throughout the year based on those two themes - we had Viking outback. We didn’t know much about Viking food so this forced us to be creative.

2. Communicate
Agree to bring a dish, or if the host does it all and you bring the wine. Another option is the host does the main meal, and the guests the nibbles and dessert. Have a schedule of when guests arrive, when you’ll bring food out so they don’t have to wait too long (you never know how hungry they are). Simple nibbles (toast almonds in a pan, dukkah & bread, or spiced olives is so simple). Set a rough time of when it starts and ends as some people might need to work the next day. 

3. Make it fun For Kids
If there are kids, have some activities for them. Setup a nice space where they can play. Include them in the dinner party rather than separate them, but have a space where they can play once they are finished. Unfortunately, most kids are loaded up with devices when out at dinner as the restaurants aren’t the most friendly environment for little people.

4. Plan a menu 
Make sure you have all dishes organised, don't expect to be able to whim it on the day. Write it all in your phone or a notepad with all ingredients required. Be sure to get all dietary requirements ahead of time so there are no surprises. People change - perhaps someone was vego and now they are not, maybe someone wasn’t sensitive to gluten now they are, or maybe someone just hates coriander. It’s easy to ask and easier so you can build it into your plan.

5. Decoration
A simple table decoration can look so lovely - some flowers from the garden, herbs or even a nice branch - we like to decorate depending on the season. Adding a nice tablecloth or placemats make it that little bit more special. Candles add a relaxing mood to the night. We prefer unscented candles, as scented candles generally release phthalates, and can overpower the food.

6. Drinks
Drinks-wise, have plenty of water & glasses handy. Simply cut some lemon or add some mint into it to jug to make it that tad more special. Often people are just thirsty which is why they drink more beer/wine, so having lots of water accessible for guests is helpful.

7. Discussions/Topic List
If there are certain topics that are controversial & triggering amongst friends/family, agree prior that these won’t be discussed. Friendships are more important than trying to justify your stance on a position. On the other hand, there are some great games out there for conversation starters, this is handy if there are people who might not know each other to create deeper conversations.

8. Games
Games. Have a little activity or quiz in-between meals. Especially if you have to plate up a nice dessert and need a little time to digest. 

9. Music 
Play some gentle background relaxing music, not too loud. We generally go for a more acoustic type of vibe but even going on the theme (if you have one) can be fun too!

10. Housekeeping
If they are new to your place, show them where the bathroom is right at the beginning. If you want to have guests seated in a certain place at the table, name places might be appropriate, it also helps guests that don't know each other remember each other's names. If your kitchen allows, ask someone to give you a hand with the dishes, they will be more than happy to help, it goes quick, you can chat as you do it, and you aren't left with having to do it all at the end. 

Remember less is more, you don’t need heaps of people for a dinner party. Dinner parties also allow you to have conversations about a wide range of topics that sometimes aren’t allowed to be discussed in public these days. Human connection is so important, we need it. Try not to stress, relax, remember it's not really about the food. Dinner parties will become your preferred choice once you become confident in them. You end up with better quality food (organic is hard to find out unless in really fancy places where it often isn't called out), less oil/salt, less microwaves, less genetically modified canola oils & MSG, you feel nourished at the end, you learn along the way for next time, and great times/conversations for a fraction of the cost.