The Perfect Christmas Dinner Party 

Swindon Designer Outlet & De Vere Village show how it's done - SWTV

 

Shoppers at the Swindon Designer Outlet took the opportunity to stop for a free glass of fizz this week - and pick up advice on throwing the perfect Christmas dinner party.

 

The shopping centre teamed up with the De Vere Village in West Swindon to showcase the homeware on offer at the likes of John Lewis Outlet, Waterford Wedgewood, Le Creuset and Denby with chefs from the De Vere providing the food, wine and culinary tips.

 

“With shoppers looking for quality products at fantastic value, the Swindon Designer Outlet offers an array of homeware and lifestyle brands ensuring you have everything you need, all under one roof,”
commented Nick Williams, Swindon Designer Outlet marketing manager.

 

Top Dinner Party Tips

 

To further ensure your festive dinner party goes off without a hitch, McArthurGlen’s Swindon shares their tops tips to guarantee a night to remember:

Set the Scene

 

The appeal of dinner parties lies in their informal atmosphere; it’s all about getting the right mix of good company, great food and a cosy ambience. One way to set the scene is with soft lighting and emotive scents. For this time of year warm woody scents help to conjure up feelings of festive nostalgia. Pop into Yankee Candles and pick up a couple of ‘Warm Spice’ candles, with their cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg notes, these candles serve as the perfect complement to a Christmas meal.

Plan Your Menu
 

To ensure your dinner party runs without a hitch, De Vere Village Head Chef Alex Gibson suggests three key things to consider when planning your menu.

 

- balance, avoid too many heavy dishes, you might want to choose a theme to ensure your dishes complement each other

 

- check dietary requirements with guests, prior to cooking to avoid any nasty surprises

 

- preparation, consider each course and prepare as many elements as possible in advance to prevent any last minute flaps and help aid a smooth running dinner party.

Finishing Touches
 

Great presentation can elevate an ordinary dinner party. It’s all in the detail; from the setup of the table to the presentation of the food even the smallest touch can make the greatest impression.

 

Decorations can be as simple as candlesticks on the table, or more elaborate flower arrangements, tablecloths, and even personalised place settings.

 

To ensure your presentation wows your guests, John Lewis Home offers a range of festive table accessories including; matching table linen and napkin holders – the perfect finishing touch to your dinner party extravaganza.

In Good Company
 

Finally, remember the perfect dinner party is ultimately all about the guests.

 

Plan your guest list in advance, and consider your seating plan!

 

Take into account your guest’s professions and personalities when deciding who will sit with whom, sometimes it’s the most unusual combinations that make the best match.

For more information on McArthurGlen’s Swindon Designer Outlet or to book a free style consultation, please visit:

 

www.swindondesigneroutlet.com  or call: 01793 507600

You can follow McArthurGlen’s Swindon Designer Outlet on:

 

Facebook at www.facebook.com/SwindonDesignerOutlet  

Open until 8 pm weeknights, Junction 16, M4