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You don’t have to be Martha Stewart to host a successful dinner party . Sure, it helps to know your way around the kitchen—but a great dinner party isn’t just about good recipes. It’s about creating a pleasant sensory experience for your guests. And with a few science -backed strategies, you can do exactly that.

Start with the guest list

When it comes to the number of guests, the sweet spot is somewhere between five and eight , according to the 2022 Canadian Social Connection Survey.

During conversation, we can effectively track the thoughts, emotions, and intentions of only about four people at once , including ourselves. This may explain why smaller gatherings—around four or fewer—can feel less enjoyable. Everyone is locked into a single conversation that pushes the limits of their attention.

With five to eight guests, the dynamic shifts.…