Sometimes it feels so darn hard to make a difference on the planet, right? I mean there is so much need and it can be overwhelming. You can always give to a cause, but it doesn’t feel like your hard earned cash goes very far. Don’t worry, I have the answer to your problem:

Have a dinner and donation party.

It’s a great way to have fun with your friends, build relationships, and make a difference without breaking the bank and while getting a few other people involved. How do I do it though, you ask? Dinner parties can be stressful, yet there are ways to avoid that.

I’m a seasoned dinner party specialist. My friends know if they get an invite from Fran they will have a good time. In fact, I had a dinner party just last night so you are in good hands. Here are my  handy dinner party tips.

1. Pick a good group of people

The best dinner parties happen when there are people who know each other and conversation flows easily. You can add one or two wild cards into the mix but be careful to try match people who you think would naturally be friends.

2. Send out written invites at least a week before the event

People have busy lives and if you let them know well ahead they can plan to make it. In your invite you should always ask people to RSVP if they can come so that you know numbers and so they are held accountable. Make the invite sound fun and include all the details.

3. Invite people when you see them

It’s no good sending out invites and then not following it up with a personalised invite when you see the person. When groups of friends talk about something and people know that there will be others there who they know, they will be more likely to come.

4. Pick a cause

Pick a cause that is close to your heart and one which you know something about. You can always invite along someone who works with the cause and have them chat to your group. It’s nice for your guests to know why they are supporting the cause. When they have heard the story they will be more likely to be generous.

5. Go with what you know

Dinner party night is not the night for trying new recipes. There is enough stress with getting everything ready, making sure your guests are comfortable, and keeping your place kind of clean. Make a tried and tested recipe – you should know how many people it feeds, and you should know that it tastes good.

6. Shop ahead of time

There is nothing worse than being half way through your onion soup to realise you have run out of onions, everyone is about to arrive, and the shops are closed. Check your cupboards, do a giant shop, and then check again.

7. Be flexible

People may drop out last minute or they may RSVP last minute and ask to bring a friend along. Either way make sure you have enough people that a few dropouts don’t matter and you’ve made enough food that a few extras don’t matter.

8. Do as much as you can ahead of time

Cut the veggies the day before. Make the dessert the day before. Honestly, the more you do before the night the better. It will save you extra stress and will mean that you are able to at least sit down with your guests and join the conversation instead of running around pulling oven dishes out and trying to find the salt.

9. Clean as you go

You will die if you have to clean everything at the end. Cleaning as you go is the best way to keep the mess manageable. Also it’s nice for guests to arrive at a clean house. When the night is done, don’t be afraid to rope in some kind souls to help you clear up.

10. Don’t forget the music

Music adds atmosphere and makes everyone feel less awkward with their chatting if there is silence. A good playlist adds the party spirit and you can listen to it every time you want to remember the night.

11. Have fun

Your guests will have fun, if you have fun. Make jokes of anything that goes wrong, smile, and be welcoming. Don’t get overwhelmed. If you find you need a moment, then go to the bathroom, take a break, and remember people can look after themselves.

There you have it – sounds quite easy now doesn’t it? A dinner and a donation… couldn’t be easier. Why not make the world better and have fun as you do it?