Part of Newton's first law of motion states that an object in motion stays in motion. Although perhaps not intended for entertaining purposes, Newton's first law fits nicely into a progressive-dinner context. Instead of a one-home dining experience, the momentum of progressive dinners relies upon several hosts, each providing a course out of individual homes. As warmer weather approaches, there isn't a better time for putting a progressive dinner into motion. Here's the formula to get dinner courses flowing and keep the party going.

PREPARATION BEFORE PROGRESSION

Progressive dinners generally include four courses: drinks and appetizers, soup and salad, main course and dessert, each lasting anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes. Since the basis of a progressive dinner centers on traveling from house to house for individual courses, hosts should allow ample time to prepare. "Six weeks is the recommended amount of time to plan a progressive dinner," says style and entertainment expert Hilary Kennedy ( HilaryKennedy.com ).

When determining the hosts of a progressive dinner, make sure to account for distance between homes. "For the sake of time and gasoline, under 25 miles between each home is ideal," Kennedy says. "The greater the distance between homes, the more time you should allot to the party schedule."

Once a hosting group has been established Kennedy suggests beginning the planning process by designating a dinner date and time. Following, each host can then select a course and the group can draft a collaborative guest list and method of inviting guests. "I recommend sending invites with RSVP requests that state the number of adults who will be attending," Kennedy says. "Even if it's a casual affair, a simple e-vite will do."

As a courtesy, Kennedy recommends that if children are not to be included at the event to kindly state so on the invitation. It's also considerate to allow guests to note any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

CRASH COURSE IN COURSES

Although it isn't necessary to include a menu on guest invitations, it's wise to create one early in the planning process, especially if your group is incorporating a theme. "Twists on tradition add an element of fun," Kennedy says, "such as having small meals from countries around the world served at each house, or a wine and cheese progressive dinner with unique wine and cheese pairings at each home."

"It may seem overwhelming to plan wine pairings for a progressive dinner, but it's actually not that tricky," says Chad Musick, beverage director at Sip in Greenville, S.C. ( Siprooftop.com ). "I like thinking of wine as music and flavor as volume; if the flavor of the food is loud, then the wine should be of a similar volume. If the wine is too loud, it drowns out the food. If the wine is too quiet, it's lost in the noise."

In addition to considering food and beverage couplings, progressive dinner hosts should also be aware of timing. Since guest arrival might be staggered, especially during the first course, Musick suggests preparing appetizers that can be served at room temperature. "Goat cheese, fig and honey crostini are perfect," says Musick.

If a progressive dinner includes a larger guest list, serving the main course buffet style can save time and accommodate more people. Kennedy recommends providing smaller plates to keep food quantities proportional.

Kennedy offers this time and money saving tip: "Keep less expensive alcohol on hand in case you run low," she says, "and make large batches of inexpensive favorites, like lemonade or iced tea that can serve people of all tastes."

"Sangria is a crowd pleaser, and most of the work can be done ahead of time," Musick says. "Mix it up the night before to allow the flavors of the fruit and wine to marry, and to save yourself the stress of mixing individual cocktails on the night of the dinner."

ATONING FOR ATMOSPHERE

Although cocktail and dessert courses are often designed for mingling, "Always have seating available in case someone needs it," Kennedy says. "The soup and salad and main course should also have some type of seating arrangements. Each host should consider the space his or her home can accommodate.

"Those with more room may want to consider hosting the main course to maximize space," Kennedy says.

If your group has committed to a theme, simple decorations can accentuate the ambiance of each progressive dinner course. "Use flags representing countries that are part of the meal, bouquets of balloons, brightly colored fruits and veggies in a bowl or patriotic items, depending on your theme," Kennedy says. "If it's an evening meal, candles are a lovely way to create warmth; flameless candles are perfect, especially in instances where people are moving about the room."

PLOTTING AND THEMING

Seasoned progressive dinner hosts may want to consider progressing their event to the next level. "Try serving a progressive brunch," Kennedy says. "Serve mimosas or fruit juices at the first home, fresh fruit for course two, omelets, crepes, or pancakes for the main course, and finish off with a light dessert parfait, coffee cake or pastry."

Weather permitting, progressive picnics and barbecues can be perfect outdoor venues. "For the Fourth of July, a patriotic theme could include serving American favorites, like hot dogs, apple pie, homemade ice cream and fried chicken," Kennedy says.

For those who enjoy unconventional entertaining, try a progressive dinner in reverse. "Start with dessert, and make your way backward to drinks and appetizers," Kennedy says.

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� 2013, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.

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