How to Host a Dinner Party: What to Do and When
Hosting without the stress. A step-by-step guide to planning a dinner party — Mediterranean style.
There’s something magical about gathering around a table. Sharing food, laughter, and conversation is one of life’s simplest and greatest joys—especially when the meal is prepared with intention and heart.
Whether you're planning an intimate dinner with close friends or a celebratory evening with colleagues, hosting a dinner party doesn't have to feel overwhelming. With the right rhythm and a few pro tips, you can create a night to remember—for both your guests and yourself.
1–2 Weeks Before: Set the Foundation
Decide on the mood
What kind of experience do you want to create? A cozy, rustic “from the village” meal? A fine-dining course menu? A laid-back Mediterranean table with plenty of wine and laughter? Let the vibe shape everything.
Make your guest list
6 to 10 people is often ideal—intimate enough for good conversation, but lively enough to feel like an event.
Plan your menu
Balance is key: hot and cold, light and rich, familiar and surprising. If you're not sure, choose dishes that can be made ahead and finished with ease. (I also offer personalized menus if you want something extra special.)
5–7 Days Before: Get Practical
Create a prep list
Organize everything by task and time—what to do two days before, the morning of, etc. This is how chefs avoid stress.
Do your first grocery shop
Buy dry goods, wine, and anything that keeps. Save fresh herbs, seafood, or meats for later in the week.
Think about the table
Will it be candle-lit? Family-style? Plated courses? Make sure you have enough serving dishes, napkins, and wine glasses.
2–3 Days Before: Prep Smart
Get ahead in the kitchen
Start prepping now: sauces, marinades, dessert components, or anything slow-cooked. Chop and store vegetables. The more you do now, the more relaxed you'll be on the day.
Test the vibe
Try your playlist. Check lighting at the same time guests will arrive. Small details make a big difference.
The Day Before: Set the Stage
Clean & organize
A tidy kitchen and a fresh-smelling bathroom go a long way. If possible, set the table now. Arrange seating and serving areas.
Finalize the menu
Batch cocktails, assemble cold starters, marinate proteins, and label dishes in the fridge if needed. Aim to have 90% ready before guests arrive.
The Day Of: Flow Into Hosting
Morning
Pick up anything fresh. Revisit your prep list. Trust that you’ve done the work.
Afternoon
Set up fully: glassware, drinks, music, candles. Do any final cooking or plating prep. Take a breather.
One hour before
Get dressed. Light candles. Pour a glass of wine. This is your moment to step into the role of host—warm, calm, present.
During the Party: Stay Present
Hosting is about connection, not perfection. Welcome your guests warmly. Serve with confidence. Toast the evening with a heartfelt “Stin ygeia mas!” (To our health!).
If you're working with a private chef (like me), everything flows even smoother. But even if you're cooking yourself, you deserve to enjoy your own evening.
After the Party: Let it Linger
Don’t rush into cleanup. Let the energy of the night settle in. Share leftovers. Send a kind message the next day. You’ve created something meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Hosting isn’t about showing off. Hosting is not about perfection. It’s about presence. A good timeline lets you show up fully — for the meal, the moment, and your guests. Let the food be soulful, the wine flowing, and the atmosphere unforgettable. It’s all about giving people a moment to breathe, connect, and enjoy life around the table.
And if you ever want help creating the perfect evening—whether it’s a rustic brunch, a shared Greek taverna meal, or a four-course celebration—I’d love to bring it to life with you.
Get the Guide as a Free Download
Hosting doesn’t need to be stressful. I’ve turned this article into a free, beautifully designed PDF that you can print, save, or share. Whether you're cooking yourself or bringing in a private chef, this guide gives you the structure to host with ease.
– Panagiotis Lenakis
Founder & Executive Chef, Greek Private Chefs