Planning the perfect private dining event is all about the details. Private dining details are defined by your guests’ preferences, dietary needs and anything that contributes to making the event an exceptional experience.
The following seven event planning tips showcase the important details you must address to not only accommodate, but also impress your guests:
1. Know Who You Are Hosting-The more information you can gather about your guests ahead of time allows you to create a private dining event that is sure to please everyone.
Take the time to understand the ages and personal preferences of your guests. Knowing who you are hosting helps you develop the perfect theme and provide the right accommodations for your private event.
2. Give A Realistic RSVP Timeframe-Send out your private dining invites early enough to give guests enough time to respond. A three-to-four-week window for a response is an appropriate timeframe.
For larger private dining events, consider using an online RSVP service – it is easier for guests to respond, a simpler way for you to manage your guest list and is typically free and less time-consuming than invites sent through the mail.
3. Provide Guests With Information Ahead Of Time-Directions and parking are concerns for guests unfamiliar with the location of your private event. You want your guests to show up feeling stress free and ready to celebrate.
If your guests are coming from out of town, provide them with a list of hotels and modes of transportation. Also provide detailed directions to the venue, along with parking options. They will be grateful for the guidance.
4. Create Sensible Seating Arrangements-Seating arrangements ensure your guests have a good time at your event. A placard placed at each table setting creates less awkwardness, so guests do not have to guess where to sit when they arrive.
Note certain personality types and seat people together who are likely to click. Consider seating a guest who is more introverted next to another guest known to be really upbeat and friendly, one who inherently encourages others to join in.
5. Prepare To Cater To Different Palettes-Using the information you gathered about your guests, it is also important to consider menu items everyone enjoys. Create a custom menu with options catering to the simpler, casual eaters as well as the most adventurous ones.
Additionally, you will likely have a handful of guests with dietary restrictions, so your private dining menu must cater to their needs. The more information you gather ahead of time the better.
6. Mix It Up-If you are hosting a sit-down dinner, be mindful that your guests may have been sitting in long meetings all day prior to your dining event.
Allow your guests to mingle by incorporating a dessert station or passed sweets, instead of another course at the table. This helps to re-energize the group and encourages everyone to socialize before departing for the evening.
7. Thank Your Guests In Person-Many think that sending a simple “thank you” card is enough to properly thank guests for attending their private event. What really makes an impression, however, is a personal conversation.
Thank your guests individually for attending the event and send them home with a little something to remember the evening. This rather simple gesture goes a long way.
