Throwing that first dinner party as newlyweds? Sort of a right of passage. But for all of you lovelies with skills that are more “take out” than “Giada” (shh… we won’t tell), we’ve teamed up with OXO for a how-to on hosting that perfect, stress-free soiree. From bar to bites, we’ve got you totally covered. Get those invites ready and scroll below to entertain your hearts out.
I probably don’t need to point out that every party needs a few amazing cocktails, but just in case… Yes, yes it does. So if you are wondering how to turn yourself into the Mixologist of the Century, we have some recommendations. First, choose one or two specialty drinks that represent you + your love (think Cosmopolitans as an ode to that first date in NYC or Vodka Lemonades for all of those summers spent relaxing on the beach) then mix it up with a white and red wine option for all of your guests that prefer vino. Next, keep some fab bar tools on hand, like OXO’s SteeL Cocktail Shaker and OXO’s SteeL Vertical Lever Corkscrew that will totally help you master the art of the yummy drink. And finally, grab a glass of cold white from OXO’s SteeL Wine Chiller (another must in our kitchens), kick your feet up and soak in the admiration from all of your impressed guests.
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Sometimes planning that menu can be a tad bit overwhelming (trust us, we’ve sooo been there), but you can definitely de-stress by adding just a few miniature appetizers and desserts to the lineup and using a really, really good pan like OXO’s Half Sheet Jelly Roll Pan. (Fab bakeware makes all the difference.) Think bacon wrapped dates, spinach quiches and creole salmon cakes for a tasty welcome, then tackle those mini pies, cookies and chocolate peanut butter bites like it’s no one’s business. You know, so you can totally wow your friends.
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Guys, no dinner party is complete without a good cup of jo, and you most definitely need to do your research when it comes to brewing up the best. We’re totally on board with OXO’s Barista Brain 9-Cup Coffee Maker, a pot known for its ultra-cool look (hello, LED interface) and hand-crafted feel. But honestly? Along with OXO’s Burr Grinder, you can easily grind and brew a GREAT cup of coffee. (Trust us.) So whether you plan on adding a little libation or drinking it black, give your guests a little extra treat while they sit back and relax for that nightcap.
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If we’re being honest, dinner parties are ah-mazing, but laying on the couch in our yoga pants munching on leftovers? Just as good. We always, always have an awesome storage set on hand, like OXO’s 8 Piece Bake, Serve & Store Set, which makes airtight storage in the refrigerator or freezer a breeze. The dishes can also go directly from the freezer to the oven, so there’s no need to thaw if you’re in a hurry to heat those extras for dinner. Not to mention that clean-up is oh-so-easy. I mean, who can argue with that?
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For even more helpful tools and products, visit OXO to channel your inner Abby Larson and host like a pro on your next big night in.