Alexandra Dudley's top 10 dinner party essentials

Create a magical evening filled with laughter, delicious food, and genuine connection. Alexandra Dudley, a seasoned host, food writer and podcaster, knows the secret to stress-free gatherings. It's all about setting the right tone with a few key pieces that make hosting a breeze.

Embrace effortless hosting with these 10 essential dinner party homewares, chosen by Alexandra to help you whip up a delicious dish, pop open the bubbly, and set a stunning dinner table – all while leaving you plenty of time to savour the magic of being present with your loved ones.

“I love classic, mainly white dinnerware for entertaining. They can take you through all seasons and will never go out of style. They also help to make the colours of your food pop, making your dishes look even more delicious! I have the Filet Bleu dinnerware set from Gien and adore them. They have a subtle shaped edge and beautiful blue trim. I use them for everything from lazy weekday porridge to full-on dinner parties.”

“There is nothing worse than being chained to the kitchen when entertaining. I want to be with my guests, enjoying a glass of something cool and fresh. 

When it comes to serving food, I always prepare in advance, serving a mix of salad and vegetable dishes that can be shared and enjoyed at room temperature.

I also prep something I can fling into the oven as guests arrive - so a versatile oven dish is a must! Roasts, casseroles, even desserts - all ready with minimal fuss. Many oven dishes also look beautiful on the table and double up as serveware."

"An easy way to elevate a dinner table is with a matching set of napkins. You don't always need a tablecloth or placemats, especially if you have a characterful dining table. And because you've opted for white dinnerware, you can afford to be a little more playful with the set you choose. I love the whimsical and vintage feel of Sharland England's Fraises des Bois napkins.

Thinking about spills is also a good idea. In the past, I’ve always put down a placemat or small plate to hold any bottles of red. But now, thanks to my Wedding Shop gift list, I use my Arthur Price coasters, which look wonderfully stylish on the table and save on any dribble stress!"

The right lighting can truly make a world of difference. Candles are a classic choice and an easy way to create a warm, glowing ambience. Opt for unscented candles or ones with subtle fragrances that complement your dinner menu. Cluster tapered candles in varying heights on the table, or arrange tealights in vintage candle holders for a whimsical touch.

Another great option is a table lamp! Strategically placed table lamps cast pools of light on specific areas of the table, creating a sense of intimacy. Choose lamps with warm-toned bulbs and fabric shades for a diffused glow. Consider dimmer switches for adjusting the light intensity throughout the evening.

If you're hosting a garden party, festoon lights are a must! Lanterns are also an excellent choice for versatile lighting for both indoor and outdoor gatherings.

“A good set of glassware is so important. Mismatching can be quite fun for plates, but a consistent set of glasses really helps elevate a table and pull it together. My go-to for glassware is LSA International and The Vintage List for those fancier occasions."

“Every kitchen should have one or two platters. The Portobello scalloped serving platter from The White Company is my favourite. I use it all the time and for everything, from sharing salads and pasta dishes to bruschetta! 

A serving platter is also another great opportunity to make a statement and tie your tablescape together! I love Amuse La Bouche and Late Afternoon for those more vibrant pieces."

"No well-equipped tablescape is complete without the right serving utensils. They're not just practical for transferring food from dish to plate – they can also add a touch of personality and style to your presentation. 

My top tip is to consider how your utensils will look paired with your serving dish and to make sure you have the right utensils for the job. A large serving spoon is essential for pasta dishes and salads, while a slotted spoon is handy for draining liquids. You'll also want a sturdy serving fork for meat and vegetables."

“Make sure there is water! It sounds boring, but ideally, you want to provide everything your guests might need so they don’t have to ask. I tend to have one or two jugs on the table and another ready nearby, so I don’t need to go back and forth.”

“Make a cocktail station! Do this by creating a makeshift bar using a drinks trolley. Or, if you have limited space, use a stylish tray. I use the fabulous Scalloped Tray from Casacarta all the time. Then, grab your glassware, vodka, gin, tonic, and any other ingredients you need to make your favourite tipple. It's always fun to pre-make a cocktail jug too. I love making a Negroni jug -  popping it in the fridge to keep it cool until guests arrive.”

My last must-have homeware for hosting is a dressing shaker or oil cruet. These little homeware gems will take your salads, drizzled dishes, and bread-dipping experiences to the next level. Opt for a shaker for thick dressings like ranch, blue cheese, or vinaigrette. And an oil dispenser for thin liquids like olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or soy sauce.

When cooking for a large guest list, it’s crucial to prep ahead. First, make sure your guests don’t have any dietary restrictions. Then make any food that you can ahead of time. If serving a salad, I’ll always wash my leaves, make a salad dressing, and pop it in a jar before guests arrive. Then when it is time to sit down, I can effortlessly toss it all together.

Stick with recipes you feel comfortable making too. A good dinner party is so much more than the food. Yes, food is important! But it’s more important to be present and for your guests to be at ease. I always think that the best food is often the simplest. I love a simple one-tray chicken dish or delicious curry. It’s not Michelin-starred, but I guarantee everyone will enjoy it.

Don’t be afraid of pudding. A lot of people come to me for simple pudding ideas. Pastry making and baking is a real science and can be tricky, but pudding doesn’t need to be! One of my favourite puddings to make is a simple chocolate mousse (you can even make it the day before). In the summertime, I love to serve it on top of a pool of loosely whipped yoghurt-infused cream.

And there you have it! Alexandra Dudley's top dinner party essentials for effortless hosting. By following these simple tips, you can create a magical evening filled with laughter, delicious food, and genuine connection, all without losing yourself in the details.

And if you're getting married soon, why not add all of these suggested gift picks to your wedding gift list? They're all sure to help you make your new home a haven for hosting, and they'll remind you of your special day every time you use them.

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