Skip the usual by choosing something a bit more unique and fun for a group.

Decor should be candlelight, soft cushions, and mood music.

Decor should be frilly and fully of hearts!

Pomegranate Inc. cropped main image

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Serve both sweet and savory fondue options.

Served with mulled wine, and put the fireplace on.

you’ve got the option to even request guests to dress in “apres ski” attire.

Southern Living Chicken Tortilla Soup in bowls to serve

Credit:Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

Tea Party

Gather the girls for a colorful, cheery spring tea party.

To majorly commit, request everyone show up in tea-time fineryhats and all.

Off to the Races

Celebrate the Souths iconic May horse race with a mix of Kentucky-inspired dishes.

Valentine’s Day Cake

Credit: Photographer: Will Dickey Prop Stylist: Missie Crawford Food Stylist: Erin Merhar

From traditional Derby Day cocktails likemint julepsto decadent bourbon-inspired desserts, youre set with Triple-Crown-worthy Kentucky Derby party.

Summer 2025 Dinner Party Themes

Tomato Fete

A tomato-themed party, need we say more?

Yes, tomato martinis are a thing, and they’re delicious.

Southern Living Chocolate Fondue ready to serve with fruit and cake to dip

Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Decorate the table with wildflowers and scattered heirloom tomatoes.

Everyone can serve themselves and sit at red-checkered tables.

Serve with beverage tubs stuffed with cold ones to cool everyone off during the hot summer weather.

Southern Living Lemon Roast Chicken With Rainbow Carrots in roasting pan

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

Induce the nostalgic of your guests with a camp-themed dinner party.

If weather permits, set up a cozy picnic.

you’re free to easily purchase murder mystery sets online, or make your own.

Tea Sandwiches Crop

Credit: Jennifer Davick

Instead, request everyone arrives with a signature dish that belongs to a different country.

A spread of totally unique dishes that are packed with flavor.

Pair with classic Christmas games, such as White Elephant.

Mint Julep Garden Party

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Rachael Burrow

Individual Veggie Pots for Easter Themed Garden Party

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Katie Jacobs

Southern Living Shrimp Boil ready to serve

Credit:Stacy Allen, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Southern Living S’Mores Dip ready to serve with graham crackers

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Fall Table Setting with Pumpkins and Fall Leaves by Lindsey Ellis Beatty

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lindsey Ellis Beatty

Southern Living Halloween Charcuterie Board assembled and ready to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Fried Arkansas Black Apples

Credit: Antonis Achilleos; Prop Styling: Kathleen Varner; Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall

Stuffed-Pepper Wreath

Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Styling: Christine Keely