The White House works closely with the State Department for guidance on cultural dos and don'ts to personalize the experience for the guest, she said.

"The goal is to really have them be over the moon with the evening," Rogers said.

Rogers said some points to consider when planning a dinner for a returning country are: If the previous meal was held indoors or outdoors, could the location be reversed? If it was held indoors, could it be moved to a different room? How can the entertainment be done differently?

In recent years, the chefs have been inspired by Mrs Obama's White House vegetable garden. Squash and pumpkin from the garden will be served Friday.