A Late December Dinner Party

Hosting a Dinner Party with Carted

Last night, we had an unforgettable dinner party at our place, and the spotlight was on Carted's stunning bar cabinets and dining accessories. If you’re planning your next gathering, let our experience inspire you to host with ease and elegance.

Setting the Stage

The secret to a memorable dinner party starts with ambiance. We set the mood with soft lighting, elegant table settings, and a well-stocked Carted bar cart showcasing everything from chic glassware to vintage-inspired cocktail shakers. The focal point of the evening? A curated spread of dishes and drinks that brought everyone together.

The Charcuterie Spread: A Feast for the Senses

Creating a charcuterie board is always a no brainer when hosting, and it was as much a feast for the eyes as it was for the palate. Here’s what we included:

• Cranberry Goat Cheese: A creamy and tangy delight with just the right hint of sweetness.

• Toma Rashi: This unique, spiced cheese added a bold kick to the board.

• Smoked Gouda: Rich, smoky, and perfectly balanced—a must-have for any cheese lover.

• Prosciutto and Coppa: These thinly sliced cured meats brought a salty, savory touch that paired beautifully with the cheeses.

• Candied Pecans: Sweet and crunchy, these were the perfect palate cleanser.

• Fresh Fruits: Grapes, figs, and apple slices added a burst of freshness and color to the board.

Whipped Ricotta Crostinis: A Sophisticated Bite

In addition to the charcuterie board, we served Whipped Ricotta Crostinis, which became an instant favorite. These elegant bites were crafted with:

• Fresh ricotta whipped to a smooth, creamy consistency.

• A drizzle of golden honey for a hint of sweetness.

• Fresh thyme, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

• Crispy crostini bases that provided the perfect crunch.

Caprese Skewers: A Classic Crowd-Pleaser

Adding a fresh and colorful touch, we prepared Caprese Skewers with:

• Juicy cherry tomatoes.

• Creamy mozzarella balls.

• Fragrant basil leaves.

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet finish.

These bite-sized delights were a hit with guests and provided a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes.

Local Pizza with a Personal Touch

The evening’s surprise was a delicious local pizza customized with ricotta spelling out “Carted.” It added a fun and personal touch to the menu, sparking smiles and plenty of photos.

Pink Cake: A Sweet Finale

For dessert, we served a stunning Pink Cake, featuring:

• Two layers of moist vanilla cake.

• Creamy vanilla icing tinted with a delicate drop of red food coloring creating a beautiful light pink icing.

• Fresh strawberries on the second layer.

• Topped with vibrant cherries for a show-stopping finish.

This cake was as delicious as it was beautiful, paired perfectly with the evening’s celebratory drinks.

Signature Drinks and Toasts

No dinner party is complete without the right beverages. We crafted a selection of classic drinks, including:

• Aperol Spritz: The classic combination of Aperol and champagne.

• Spicy Margarita: Made with fresh sour mix, jalapeño slices, a Tajín rim, and spicy tequila.

• Dirty Martinis: A sophisticated blend of olive juice, vodka, and olives.

• Various Wine Varietals: Guests enjoyed reds, whites, and everything in between.

• Veuve Clicquot Champagne: A perfect pairing with the Pink Cake for a sweet and sparkling finale.

Why Carted Makes Hosting Effortless

Every detail of the evening—from the sleek bar cabinet to the curated dinnerware—came together seamlessly, thanks to Carted. Their thoughtfully designed pieces made setup a breeze and ensured our guests felt indulged and cared for.

Tips for Your Own Dinner Party

1. Plan Your Menu: Include a mix of flavors and textures, like creamy cheeses, savory meats, and sweet accents.

2. Curate Your Space: A well-styled bar cabinet and dining table set the tone for the evening.

3. Elevate the Details: Use beautiful serveware and glassware to make every dish and drink shine.

4. Relax and Enjoy: The best gatherings happen when the host is having just as much fun as the guests.

Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or an upscale dinner, Carted has everything you need to host in style. Ready to elevate your entertaining game? Explore our collections and turn your next gathering into an event to remember.