How to ensure variety at a potluck party

May 08, 2009

If not planned well, a potluck party can quickly turn into an unorganized dinner where people are eating the same type of food.

To avoid this, make sure to be specific with the guests to a potluck party in terms of what to bring as an appetizer, main dish or dessert. It's important to do this to ensure each course is represented proportionately. While having too much dessert may sound good in theory, your guests may not appreciate it.

One way to make sure everyone stays on point is to incorporate a theme or a type of dinner people can expect. For example, telling people it will be an Italian night will help your guests decide what dish to bring.

Do not worry about how big or small dishes may be. Traditionally, potluck parties have a multitude of people, which means everyone will most likely take smaller portions. Because of this, dishes of varying sizes are ideal.

Finally, it may also be fun to ask guests to bring the recipe of the dish they prepared as some people may be interested in making it for themselves.