Birthday supper

[Sidney]

In a few weeks time, I’m hosting a supper party at home for about 30 people to celebrate a big birthday. It’s going to be informal, a mix of us cooking and buying salads from a local cafe for a stand-up buffet. But not everyone will know each other, and I wonder whether anyone had any good ideas for games/ice-breakers they have used to persuade people gently to try and talk to ‘strangers’ to make the party go with a bit more of a swing?

How does a stand up buffet work? Will have to be fork food and bowls easier than plates. Where will guests put their glasses? I think finger food will be easier.

Ice breakers are just cringy and scream forced fun. Introduce people and let it happen naturally.

It will be forks and plates and there will some seats and tables.

Yes, I agree, the word ice-breaker is pretty grim and has been hijacked by the corporate world. I guess I’m anxious about hosting. I’ve hosted lots of family, but not friends in this way and am trying to be as prepared as possible.