Joani's comments about music got me thinking of the whole MOOD thing that can be planned with a meal. Numerous times I've found myself turning down the lights when I'm really trying to turn down the noise level. It seems to have a strong cause and affect relationship. Love Sherri's suggestions about noise taming. Here's one more.
Some cooks think it's cool to accompany dinners with music.
Unfortunately no one usually is listening to the music at dinner time, so all it does is make people raise their voices. But while the main consumption is taking place, I strongly prefer no music.