If you asked 10 different hosts the secret to pulling off a successful dinner party, you’d likely get 10 different answers. Still, the concepts of hospitality and accommodation would undoubtedly come up at some point. It’s up to a host to make her guests feel at home for the duration of the soiree, and that means always having scrumptious food and tasty beverages near at hand.

The hors d’oeuvres should be flavorful but not too exotic as you don’t want to put anyone off. Always ask around to see if any special dietary restrictions need to be factored into the preparation of the main course. Don’t serve a vegetarian some beef bourguignon by mistake. It’s traditional in some households to serve coffee with dessert, but not all guests like a shot of caffeine just a few hours before bedtime. That’s why you should set aside some gourmet decaf coffee just in case.