Old-Fashioned Entertaining Moves That Are Making Your Parties Feel Dated

When it comes to hosting a dinner party or gathering, there are plenty of throwback entertaining trends we love: setting the table with silver, making place cards, and decorating with backyard cuttings, to name a few. But there are other hosting moves from yesteryear that will age your celebration faster than you can say Jell-O mold. Here, our editors share the old-fashioned entertaining trends that we’re glad to have left behind. Hosts, take note!

Staying So Busy You Miss Your Own Party

Once upon a time, it may have been expected that the host handle every little element of the gathering, such that they never sit down to enjoy it themselves, but those days are (thankfully) behind us. “Self-service stations for things like drinks can make everyone feel more comfortable,” says Brennan Long, the Associate Director of Social Media. Place a recipe card on the cocktail cart as a special touch and helpful hint.

Not Considering Dietary Needs

A little thoughtfulness on the front end can make for a more enjoyable meal for everyone. As you begin planning the menu, touch base with your guests and ask about dietary restrictions or allergies. That way, you can accommodate their needs without feeling obligated to serve as a short-order cook the night of the party.

Only Hosting In The Dining Room

We’ll always love a formal dining room when your home and space allows, but there’s no sense in confining the festivities to it when you’re having folks over. “There are so many open layouts these days that let the party happen wherever it feels best,” notes Senior Special Projects Editor Katie Rousso. That goes for outside too—when the weather’s right, extending the party to the backyard allows for more breathing room and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.

Not Allowing Others To Help With Cleanup 

While you shouldn’t expect or solicit your guests’ assistance when it comes to tidying up at the end of the night, it’s perfectly fine to accept help when it’s offered. In those instances, give your extra set of hands a straightforward task, like taking out the trash or clearing the table. 

Sweating The Small Stuff

We certainly appreciate a handwritten place card or a neatly starched cloth napkin, but don’t become so wrapped up getting things just so that you forget why everyone is coming in the first place: to be together. For us, the best party will always be the one with a table crowded with friends and a family, a simple menu made with care, and a stress-free host.