Easy Entertaining

Appetizers From Freezer To Oven
When unexpected company arrives, be prepared with a batch
of pre-made appetizers from your freezer.  Take the time to make
up the appetizers in advance, wrap tightly in heavy duty aluminum
foil and freeze.  When company arrives, you can pop these frozen
appetizers into the oven.  Baking for most appetizers will only take
about 20 minutes from the freezer.

Reheat Frozen Appetizer
Reheat several types of frozen appetizers together in one pan, each
on a separate sheet of foil with the edges turned up. Foil keeps pans
clean and prevents juices and flavors from mingling.

The Guest List
The right mix of people makes a great party.  Here's two way's to think
about the guest list.  Either invite people with a common interest
or have a group with a wide range of interests.  Various ages
can liven up the conversation too.

Invitations Start the Party
Be creative with  the invitations.  Excitement for the party can start from
the moment your guests receive the invitation.  Don't forget the basics, date,
time, place, directions if needed, attire (people always want to know what to wear)
and a phone number for RSVPs.  If you really want to make the invites impressive,
actually send them by post instead of e-mail!

Get Organized
Use lists to help you plan.  After the guest list, plan your menu.  Make choices
according to the theme of the party or season of the year.  Consider your budget
and the tastes of your guests.  Make a shopping list and plan a timetable.
I wouldn't dream of having a party without planning every detail!

Presentation Pizzazz
Planning and presentation are the keys to a successful party. Presentation
includes all those special touches that make your party festive. Find unique
containers to serve in or dress up your foods with eye-catching garnishes.
Flowers make wonderful additions to food platters.  You can cut vegies
in attractive ways and make various colored mellon balls served with toothpicks.

Plan Ahead
Buy and prepare food well in advance to help eliminate the last-minute rush.
A good hostess is one who is relaxed and enjoys the party.

Decorative Trays
Cover any cardboard shape with foil to make a decorative tray when
you don't have the right size serving platter.  If you feel extra creative,
decorate the edges with colorful metalic tape.