Entertaining large groups of people can be a little daunting on your own. If you can, enlist the help of a caterer.
Whether you're hosting dinner or simply wish to dress up the supper table, you know that setting the table is a process dictated by both tradition and style. Heed the following tips and rituals.
The silverware is placed on the table in the order in which it will be used, starting with the outside pieces. Let this be your guide as you work your way through a meal.
Chocolate and raspberry have a special affinity for each other. This is the perfect topping for vanilla, chocolate or cherry ice cream. Makes about 1 1/2 cups.
If you've never provided food for this type of crowd before, be sure to keep it simple. As always, plan well ahead of time and prepare for disasters.
A few carefully selected words can add a personal touch to any social gathering. People make toasts over festive beverages such as champagne, sparkling cider or wine.
Toasts are a public way of honoring a dinner guest, ceremony honoree or party invitee.
The best way to avoid a hangover, of course, is never to drink at all. But if abstinence is not a part of your plans, check out these proven techniques.
You've seen those people who seem to be comfortable in any social situation. What's their secret?
When confronted with a menu in a restaurant in France, many people have no idea where to start. The following will help you avoid ordering chocolate mousse as an appetizer or goat cheese salad for...
When confronted with a menu in an Italian restaurant, many people have no idea where to start. The following will help you avoid ordering gelato as an appetizer or minestrone as a dessert.
If you entertain often, a food processor can be a lifesaver. Even if you're just cooking for your family, it can save time and let you combine several functions in one appliance.
Eating out as a vegetarian has become much easier than it used to be. Most large cities have vegetarian restaurants, and most restaurants offer meatless entrées.
When creating an autumn centerpiece, you can emphasize the season through the idea of the harvest and the feeling of abundance or plenty.
Middle Eastern foods tend to be very similar, so knowing what you're ordering at a Persian restaurant will help you order at other restaurants.
You don't need to spend a fortune on a holiday table centerpiece. Everything you need to create your own masterpiece is right outside your door - well, almost. A quick trip to the grocery store...
Here is a simple project that will dress up any flat surface in your home for the holidays. Mantles, sideboards, bookcases and coffee tables can be decorated instantly with just a quick trip into...
Don't make the mistake of waiting until Thanksgiving morning to start preparing your meal. If nothing else, you need a few days to start defrosting your turkey. Here's a game plan for a standard...
The art of setting a dinner table is a lot easier with the proper instructions. Whether your dinner is very formal or of the more casual variety, there are a few basic guidelines to follow when...
For formal dinners, the dinner napkin should match the tablecloth. And forget about folding napkins into swans or boats - you're better off with a classic fold.
(452)
(293)
(121)
(690)
Become an expert at entertaining with tips and advice from eHow's party planning experts. Learn how to hire a caterer, create dazzling centerpieces or entertain groups of kids. Friends or relatives coming to town for an extended visit? Find excellent tips on accommodating house guests and ensuring that everyone has a pleasant stay. Entertaining a large group of people at once? You'll even find great recipes for large groups at eHow.
