Get the Popular Science daily newsletter💡 Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent six days a week. 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.…