Quick Tips for a Successful Dinner Party

Expectations for a last-minute dinner party are sure to be lower than one that took weeks to plan. Why not have a little fun by putting a unique spin on typical dinner party activities?

Instead of worrying about who will sit where, leave the seating arrangements up to chance. Assign each seat at the table a number, write each number on a small sheet of paper and place them in a bowl. Before seating your guests, have them choose a number from the bowl. Whichever number they get is the seat they sit in.

If your dining table is too small for all your guests, have an indoor picnic. Put some blankets and pillows on the floor around a low coffee table to create an atmosphere that is laid-back and fun.

If there is absolutely no time to cook, order take-out. Your guests will understand there was no time to plan a meal.

Forget formal place settings. Create a simple centerpiece for the table, set out the food buffet style and let guests fill their plates before sitting down. You'll save time setting the table and guests won't have to fuss over delicate china or extra forks.