Tips and tricks on how to make your parties unforgettable this summer

The customary three-course dinner party is becoming passé as hosts are now turn to grazing boards, DIY desserts, and carefully curated drinks to ensure their soirees are memorable. Some are even going the extra mile to guarantee their arrangements are Instagram-worthy.

A survey of 1,000 adults revealed that a whopping 80% feel the strain to make their gatherings unique, be it through aesthetically pleasing dishes, imaginative décor, or signature mocktails. Consequently, many dinner party hosts have started to choose grazing boards and ‘interactive elements’ such as build-your-own desserts to make them stand out.

To enhance your summer dinner parties and help you host a stand out event this summer, Matilda Bea, known for her creative hosting flair, has partnered with Cawston Press to share her top tips.

She commented: “I always try to add a personal and playful touch to my gatherings – whether that’s through handmade menus, thoughtful place cards, or even personalised cocktails to make guests feel extra special.

“These days, I find that it’s about so much more than just the food. It’s the atmosphere, the details, and those great conversations around the table that really make a moment catching up with friends and family so memorable.”

Research revealed that 11% of hosts will dedicate over eight hours – longer than a typical workday – to planning their social events. While 31% are happy to order food in, over half view cooking as an integral part of the process.

The formal invitation is also out with a whopping 73% opting to simply send a text. In comparison, sustainability is a key factor for 52% when organising such events, with one in 10 hosts committed to using sustainable products, allowing their guests to enjoy the feast guilt-free.

Steve Kearns, Managing Director at Cawston Press, which commissioned the study to mark the launch of its new Sparkling Can Multipacks – aimed at enhancing home gatherings – commented: “People are putting more thought than ever into their dinner parties.

“Many people – especially those who are younger – rarely eat a meal out without taking a photo, so the mise-en-scène has to be as spot-on as the food on the plate. And now, just as importantly, it should reflect the growing desire for more sustainable choices at the table.”

When attending someone else’s gathering, 77% of guests will bring a bottle of wine as a token of appreciation – while 42% choose flowers, and 36% opt for a box of chocolates. Meanwhile, 11% contribute mixers or soft drinks to kickstart the festivities.

MATILDA BEA’S TIPS AND TRICKS FOR HOSTING:

DIY COCKTAILS & MOCKTAILS:

I always make sure there’s something for everyone. A DIY cocktail station is a favourite of mine. I’ve even turned my sink into a makeshift bar, filled with ice – it’s a fun photo moment and adds to the ‘occasion’.

NIBBLES STATION:

If food isn’t the star of the show, I love setting up a drinks and nibbles station – a grazing table on a coffee table or ottoman works wonders.

TABLESCAPING:

A well-styled tablescape is key for me. I love mixing materials for my tablescape – soft linens, colourful table mats, and ceramic serve ware layered together to create a personal and beautiful dining experience.

PERSONAL TOUCHES:

Whether it’s personalised place names, hand-painted stationery, or bespoke gift bags, thoughtful details add a personal touch and make your guests feel truly special.

Handmade menus or personalised gift bags can be budget-friendly, yet instantly set the tone and create a unique, memorable experience.

GIVE YOUR DINNER PARTY A THEME:

A theme adds a whole new layer of fun to the evening. Whether it’s centred around a drink of the evening, the cuisine you’re serving, or a seasonal touch, a theme helps set the tone and gives your guests something to vibe with.

It’s the little details that tie everything together.

INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES:

A dinner party is the perfect opportunity to get everyone involved. I love creating interactive activities like DIY cocktail bars or pizza-making to keep guests engaged and create an easygoing, fun vibe.