16 Charts to Help You Be a Better Host

Get ready to bookmark this post, folks. It may one day save you from a hosting disaster! We worked with the folks at Huffington Post to create this extensive list of helpful tips and tricks that will take your hosting skills to pro level.

In our daydreams, we pull off successful dinner parties to choruses of “What a beautiful tablescape,” and “Did you make that gorgeous tart?” But in reality, as the last guests leave, it can feel like you’ve really been through something. The duties of a host require a ton of forethought and multitasking that it’s near impossible to master. We partnered with Kenmore PRO to round up charts with tricks that will help you host like a pro. These tips will save you time and trouble, making it easier for you to enjoy the party itself.

PREP

serving sizes
Image: @The Chic Site

This guide makes it super easy to draw up your shopping list. Just multiply the recommended serving size by your number of guests!

set table
Image: Pizzazerie

Finally, we know what that tiny fork is for.

proper way to set table
Image: Danielle Mandix

And based on the meal, where to put it.

napkin 1
Image: Classic Casual Home

A polished way to put your napkin holders to a more creative use.

HORS D’OEUVRES

water infusion
Image: Sugar And Charm

Some simple and lovely ways to serve water to your guests as they arrive.

cheese board
Image: The Glitter Guide / Victoria McGinley

The anatomy of a perfect cheese plate.

wine pair
Image: Decanter.com

And the perfect wines to it pair with.

cheese and beer
Image: Cooking And Beer

Don’t forget the beer lovers!

THE MEAL

fruits and veggies
Image: And Then We Saved

For the kitchen: a guide to what produce is in season, so that what you serve is as fresh and flavorful as possible.

build salad
Image: The Huffington Post

Use this masterchart to build the perfect first-course salad.

veggie cooking
Image: Domestic Superhero

This cooking cheat sheet is a lifesaver — you’ll never serve overcooked Brussels sprouts again.

steak
Image: Our Best Bites

Guests will be impressed by your ability to cook steak to order.

flavor profiles
Image: CookSmarts

How to build balanced, tasty flavor profiles in your food.

plating chart
Image: Garnish Food Blog

Some easy ways to give your plating that restaurant-quality look.

DESSERT

dessert wine
Image: Sugar And Charm

Wow the party by thoughtfully pairing your dessert with a wine.

tea brewing
Image: Sugar and Charm

Finally, offer a comforting cup of tea to close out a successful night — perfectly brewed.

Kenmore PRO wants to help your dinner party go off without a hitch. Before taking on the task, make sure you’re armed with the tools you need. New Kenmore PRO appliances offer impressive features such as Turbo Boil burners, Dual True convection and 360 Powerwash dishwasher technology that will make event prep and clean up easier than ever. So whether you’re planning a dinner party, date night or game day, make your party THE party by hosting like a pro.

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