How to Throw the Ultimate Formal (but Not Stuffy) Dinner Party

This thoroughly modern meal moves between rooms with each course, from golden gougeres to a warm-madeleine finish

Photograph by William Abranowicz

Gone are the days of dinner parties confined to a dinner table. The new way to entertain is to let your guests enjoy food all throughout the house--drinks (and snacks!) in the kitchen, dessert on the sofa, etc. You still might want to sit at the table for the main event, but why not move around a bit afterwards? An elegant evening doesn't need to be a traditional one.

Get the menu & tips: The New Formal: A Dinner Party