Easy Entertaining Recipe

When I say I have an easy entertaining recipe, most people think I am talking about food. But entertaining is a lot more than just planning a menu. The next time you entertain guest, remember this acronym: PARTY.

Prepare ahead.
Attend your own party
Roll with the punches
Together you can achieve more
You set the example

Prepare Ahead

The first step is to learn how to organize a party. The best thing that you can do to make all of your entertaining stress free is to prepare as much as possible ahead of time. This might include setting the table, decorating, choosing a seating arrangement, or organizing the buffet table. If it can be done ahead of time, do it.

If you are having a large gathering you can start as much as one week ahead. Make a list of everything you have to do to prepare for the event and then note how many days ahead of time you can reasonably accomplish each item. You don't want to be running around laying out cocktail napkins five minutes before your guests are due to arrive.

Don't overlook the food when you think about preparing ahead. Whether you are serving appetizers or a four course meal, you won't believe how stress free entertaining can be when you serve dishes that can be prepared ahead of time.

Take a look at this selection of recipes. Many of them can be prepared ahead of time and are perfect for entertaining.

Attend Your Own Party

The most successful parties are the ones in which the host is present. If you are stuck in the kitchen constantly stirring the very delicate sauce you are serving to impress your friends while they are all in the living room chatting, you will miss out on the entire point of the party - spending time with your guests.

If you follow this easy entertaining recipe and prepare as much as possible ahead of time, you will actually be able to attend your own parties, enjoy your guests and feel relaxed, knowing that all the prep work is already done.

Roll With the Punches

Let's say you have taken the time to organize a dinner party. The doorbell rings. Your guests have arrived. At the same time, the smoke detector sounds and you realize you burned the roast you prepared for dinner. What do you do?

If you answered break down into tears, you are wrong.

If you answered laugh it off, apologize to your guests and then suggest a wonderful nearby restaurant, you are absolutely right.

An important step in your easy entertaining recipe is to handle the unexpected with grace and style. Don't let bumps in the road deter you from having a good time with your guests.

Together You Can Achieve More

Just because you are the host of the gathering does not mean you have to be a super hero. Upon receiving their invitation, if your guests offer to bring a dish or contribute in some way to the event, let them.

Most people like to reciprocate. They are grateful to have been invited and want to do something to help. By letting them, you are not only allowing them to show you their appreciation, but you are also making things easier for yourself. It is a win-win situation.

You Set the Example

At a party, guests follow the lead of their host. If you are frantically running around worrying about every small detail, your guests will pick up on your tension and they will become uncomfortable. The best hosts are calm and relaxed and create an inviting atmosphere, allowing their guests to feel at ease.

If you want all of your parties to be successful, remember this easy entertaining recipe: Prepare ahead, Attend your own party, Roll with the punches, Together you can achieve more, You set the example.

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