1. Shop for your non-perishables at least a week in advance. You will be busy with cleaning and other preparations as the date gets closer. Also, if you're not able to find that obscure spice for your signature dish, you will have time to mail-order it or re-think your menu.
2. Buy individual cans and bottles of soft drinks instead of large 2-liter bottles. Any leftover drinks will be easy to clean up and store.
3. Have one trusted friend "on call" on the day of the party. If you find at the last minute that you need more ice or that you burned your dessert, you will have someone who can stop at the grocery store on their way over to your party.
Thanks for the tip Doris!
Do you have a favorite entertaining tip? Send it to us using our simple submission form. If selected, I will post it with your name in future weeks.

