Instructions: "The Ultimate Bash"

Throwing a party doesnt have to be work. Here are a few tips to overcoming those host jitters! Invitations:
If youre planning a small get-together give your guests two weeks notice.

The larger the group, the earlier the notice.

When in doubt, send out invitations...be creative and design your own!

Accessories:
Flowers always cheer up the place!

Wicker baskets are both attractive and useful.

Music and lighting are key! Candles are always a nice accent and make sure the music isnt too loud.

Food Picks:
Pick a menu youre comfortable with. Decide if you want appetizers or dinner.

Try to shop in one location...consolidating will prevent you from being drained at the end of the day.

Prepare ahead of time and make your dishes the night before. The night of the party simply pop your refrigerated or frozen dishes in the oven!

Have drinks and appetizers ready when guests arrive. This will be particularly impressive since you will have looked like you didnt lift a finger all day!

Serve meal or appetizers 30 minutes after the party starts. This way guests will have time to mingle but you will have avoided any unnecessary crankiness.

Keeping Sane!

Now that you have prepared so diligently and everything is running smoothly, you can sit back and relax! Enjoy the party like youre one of the guests instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

The Finale!

Now, weve covered the hosts itinerary, but what about the guests?

Luckily for the guest, all that is expected of them is to show up...but what about hostess presents? Christine offers us some novel, and, of course, fun ideas...

Personalized napkins

Pot holders

Fun dishwashing tools

Homemade preserves

Plant

Fresh herbs

Specialty teas & coffees

Exotic spices with a recipe

Coffee table book

Disposable camera

Or an original craft

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