Top Ten Rules for Entertaining

1. Prepare as much as you can ahead of time. You set the tone at your party and a harried host or hostess is never a good thing.

2. Don't try out a recipe for the first time the day or night of your party. Practice it before hand or use one you have down pat.

3. Simple but Special - Everything from the menu to the tablescape should be both.

4. Know your guests' likes and dislikes.

5. Don't stress, remember the most beautiful thing at your party are the people.

6. Set up stations or areas for the bar/beverages, food, appetizers in different locations. This gets your guests to spread out and creates a better traffic flow - and keeps them out of the kitchen!

7. Always have some type of welcome station set up. When your guests arrive, it’s wonderful to trade bags and coats for a refreshing drink and a warm greeting.

8. A keepsake or favor is a wonderful way to make your guests feel special.

9. Make sure never to plan a party during a time when your calendar is packed. Instead of having a Holiday Party in December during the weeks leading up to Christmas, have a Post Holiday Party that is relaxed and lets your guests show off their new gifts.

10. Never try to impress your guests. Instead address each guest and make your party a time to connect with those you love.

For more ideas and inspirations on celebrating life, visit The Partybluprints Blog