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47 Comments
pretty_pathetic
May 16, 2014
Take people up on their offers to bring dessert or wine or bread or crackers or shrimp or whatever. Worst case, there's too much food and everyone gets to take some home.
JoyJoy
May 15, 2014
Ina Garten repeatedly says in her shows to not make everything yourself. Use good local shops for the appetizer (cheese & charcuterie) or dessert (pick up a great ice cream to go with your pie), for example. I always try to remember this when I feel overwhelmed before entertaining.
sapelo
May 15, 2014
Begin parties with a farm tour and a stop by the goat barn, following which everyone will be gleefully happy.
LB
May 15, 2014
Prep as much as possible several days/hours in advance so you have plenty of time before guests to arrive to set the table , have a glass of wine, etc. Another piece of advice: have a "make your own cocktail bar" where you lay out the recipe and ingredients and you let the guests shake and stir to their choosing. It's fun and social!
anntruelove
May 14, 2014
I'm not much of an entertainer although I'd like to do more of it. I've learned a lot by watching other hosts and have to say that genuinely caring about my guests and being grateful for their presence has resulted in very memorable and enjoyable get togethers.
Patty W.
May 14, 2014
bring your own dish or drinks some need diet or no sugar so it helps on different likes wants or needs... have others bring cups plates etc.
Adam V.
May 14, 2014
Always have more food than you think you'll need, you never know when a lunch will run into a dinner, or a dinner will run into late-night snack time.
Irene [.
May 14, 2014
From my late grandmother, a brilliant woman, talented cook, and the quintessential 1950's homemaker... "Never make more than one new dish for a dinner party." I don't always follow that rule, but when I don't, I enjoy myself less because I am stressed about the results of the new dishes.
Dennis
May 14, 2014
People love "make your own" bars - like make your own chili, make your own taco, make your own burger. Put out all the cooked ingredients, assemble one for display, and let your guests do the work
barrie
May 14, 2014
My mom told me to give guests a job- help setting the table, dressing a salad...it relaxes them and helps you!
CarmellaCarter
May 14, 2014
Keep it simple so you can spend more time with your guests and enjoy the food. Always have your guests bring a dish, they like to contribute! Make sure there's plenty of food, ice, drinks and great music and have FUN! Pour yourself a drink, turn up the music and clean once everyone has left. Most of all make sure your guests feel like they are at home. Smile and Laugh! Makes me want to plan a party! Looking forward to your new book!
missmertz
May 14, 2014
If you want to serve a cocktail, make it a pitcher cocktail or punch. Or, put out recipe cards, so guests can mix their own and you don't have to stand there muddling all night.
cocos C.
May 14, 2014
Don't worry about perfection. Guests prefer a relaxed host to one who is fussing over everything.
darcell
May 14, 2014
Make sure to know if someone is glutan free or vegan ect:) And have something for them to eat.
Gigi
May 14, 2014
Don't be afraid to let the guests bring something too. It makes them feel good and makes your life easier. Entertaining should be fun for all involved not just the company. :)
Antigoni S.
May 14, 2014
Keep the food simple and comfortable. Don't try to pull out all of the stops when you have company, it takes away from enjoying your guests. And when they ask to help....let them!
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