Debrett’s has joined forces with the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium, as part of an EU funded campaign, to develop a Guide to Entertaining at Home.

There are many ways in which you can entertain at home – from formal dinners to drinks parties, informal and improvised lunches and al fresco suppers. All these events will inevitably be enhanced by impeccable hospitality. As a host you must be perceptive, organised and meticulous. But you should also be relaxed, flexible and confident enough to improvise when the need arises.

Above all, you must be generous: the simplest dish will be immeasurably improved if it is plentiful, delicious and served with liberal amounts of wine. Good conversation and entertaining company will be much more memorable to your guests than rarefied cuisine, served with a dose of cook’s anxiety. Good etiquette is not about outmoded manners and codes of conduct, it is all about being observant, being aware of other people’s comfort, and doing your utmost to ensure that everyone is having a wonderful time.

Download our booklet here for invaluable advice on a range of home entertaining, from informal suppers and al fresco meals to drinks parties and formal dinners, with a cheesy twist...