Years ago, a friend of mine held a dinner party where we all made a holiday dish to share and then created ornaments for Christmas. Each year they chose a theme such as glass-painting or pinecone ornaments and then had their guests decorate ornaments after dinner. A craft supply store will have has all kinds of items for this easy "dinner" party. Try some ribbon projects or do something with dried flowers. The projects are only limited by your creativity.
A garden is a nice place to hold an easy dinner party. Just make sure everything is weeded, pruned and dead-headed. (That is NOT the easy part, unless you can put the kids to work.) Dress up your garden with decorations. Try a simple wooden bench placed in a place where your guests can sit and prop plates while having a conversation. A simple garden gnome peeking out from beneath a bush will provide a conversation all on its own.
If you live near a beach, why not serving dinner around a bonfire or campfire? All you need is a variety of fire-related items that set the mood and lend romantic ambiance to any dinner party. A nice fire pit or chiminea makes a great focal point that turns burgers and dogs into an event.
Gourmet Station delivers fine dining to your door without the chef. Then again, if you want to hire a chef, or someone dressed up as one, you can make it look like you went all out. They have all types of gifts of the month, birthday dinner baskets, and anything else you can think of to make a gourmet meal or to surprise someone else with their own easy dinner party.
Do barbeque, but don't do the work! Try Kansas City barbecue at its best. Who doesn't like a pulled pork sandwich or baby back ribs? Since you won't be cooking, you can go the extra step and poll your guests as to their favorites. When you know, just call and order their favorites. I promise you. No one will be disappointment with your choices!
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