Ramadan is a time of reflection, connection, and most importantly, sharing delicious food with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting an intimate suhoor or a vibrant iftar party, creating a warm and welcoming environment can turn your gathering into a truly unforgettable experience. 

At Heart Cottage Lane, we are here to help you in every way - from setting the table to setting the mood. Let's dive into everything you need to know to host the perfect Ramadan iftar party and suhoor gathering!

Step 1: Plan Your Guest List

First things first - who's coming? Knowing your guest list helps you organise seating, plan the menu, and ensure everyone feels included, whether it’s a small gathering or a big celebration.

A thoughtful guest plan can make your gathering feel more personal and enjoyable.

Things to Consider:

• Seating arrangement: Do you need children's tables? Are there older people who need to sit comfortably? For a cosy Ramadan atmosphere, consider the seating area on the floor with pillows.

• Dietary restrictions: Check guests for allergies or special dietary requirements to ensure everyone has enough to eat.

• Number of guests: The correct number of guests helps avoid food waste while ensuring that everyone is sufficiently fed.

When you remember these factors, you can ensure a smooth and delightful evening for everyone.

Step 2: Curate a Thoughtful Menu

Food is the star of the show! Whether it's a suhoor or iftar party, plan a menu that balances tradition and personal favourites. Suhoor meals must provide nutrition to maintain fasting hours, while iftar is a time to replenish energy at the end of the day.

Start with dates and water to break the fast, followed by a mix of hearty mains, flavourful sides, and indulgent desserts.

Suhoor Ideas:

• Protein-rich food: eggs, curd, cheese, or oatmeal to keep the energy level stable.

• Complex carbohydrates: whole grains, dates, or overnight oats for long-lasting fuel.

• Hydrating foods: cucumber, watermelon, and lots of water to avoid dehydration.

Iftar Ideas:

• Starter: Dates and water, along with lentil soup or a light salad.

• Main course: Traditional foods like biryani, grilled meat, or stuffed vegetables. 

• Side dishes: Hummus, Fattoush, Samosas, and Spring Rolls. 

• Dessert: Kunafa, qatayef, or baklava for a sweet indulgence.

• Drinks: Infused water, fresh juice, laban, or hydration-focused beverages.

Pro Tip: Prepare as much as possible so you can spend more time with your guests instead of getting stuck in the kitchen

Step 3: Timing is Everything

Unlike typical dinner parties, Ramadan iftar and suhoor timing is non-negotiable. Be mindful of prayer times and make sure food is ready to serve when it’s time to break the fast.

Time Management Tips:

• Set the alarm: Use a reminder for Maghrib and Fajr Adhan to ensure food and drink is served at the right time. 

• Pre-set table: Arrange everything in advance so you’re not rushing at the last moment.

• Suhoor planning: Since waking up can be challenging for suhoor, encourage the guests to come on time so they can eat before the fajr.

Step 4: Set the Ambience

Make a quiet, festive atmosphere that welcomes your guests the moment they arrive. A good idea of ​​the surroundings improves the dining experience and makes the assembly more special.

Ambiance Essentials

• Soft lighting: Use candles, fairy lights, or lanterns to add warmth. 

• Scents and aromas: Oud, amber, or floral incense can give a soothing touch. 

• Background music: A playlist with a Quran text or soft instrumentals can lift the mood.

At Heart Cottage Lane, we have curated a special Ramadan iftar Collection featuring luxurious tableware, ambient lighting, and heavenly scents that enhance your decor.

Explore our Ramadan collection for elegant table settings and festive house accents.

Step 5: Elevate Your Tablescape

Your dining table is the heart of the assembly, so make it beautiful! Whether it is a comfortable suhoor setup or an elegant iftar party, a well-decorated table improves the experience.

Tablescape Styling Tips:

• Layered Linen: Use elegant tablets and runners to add depth.

• Decorative plates: Mix and match colours and styles for a unique touch.

• Candlelight Glow: Arrange candles or lanterns to add atmosphere. 

• Floral Accents: Small flower arrangements or greenery provide freshness to the table. 

Top Tip: Dedicate a beautiful serving dish for dates and water. It’s a thoughtful detail that shows you’ve considered even the smallest moments of the meal

Bonus: Thoughtful Gifts and Favors

If you’re attending an iftar or suhoor, a small gift for the host is a lovely gesture. And if you are hosting, consider sending your guests home with a little keepsake.

Gift Ideas for Ramadan:

• Aromatic candles - gifted in their favourite scents. 

• Box of sweets - selection of premium dates or chocolate treats.

• Personal decoration - engraved lantern or beads.

At Heart Cottage Lane, we offer a wide range of helpful Ramadan-themed gifts available online and in-store at our Arjan location.

For more inspiration for Ramadan traditions and hospitality, look at the National Geographic Guide to Ramadan Traditions for a deeper look at global customs.

Ramadan is all about togetherness, gratitude, and creating memories with the people you hold dear. Whether you’re planning a grand iftar party or an intimate suhoor gathering, a little preparation goes a long way in making the evening truly special.

Ready to create an unforgettable Ramadan gathering? Explore our exclusive Ramadan iftar Collection for elegant décor, tableware, and gifts that make hosting effortless. 

From all of us at Heart Cottage Lane - Ramadan Kareem!