Entertaining Tips

How to make a mimosa bar

Sarah Brooks — Tue, 07 May 2013 07:45:00 -0700

Next time you're hosting a brunch, a bridal shower or even a baby shower, plan for a mimosa bar. Here’s how to make one in four easy steps!

15 Party must-haves for your next big bash

Whitney Coy — Wed, 01 May 2013 00:45:00 -0700

A reason to party can happen at a moment's notice, and it's best to be ready. Have these items on hand to throw a rockin' party in no time at all.

How to organize a progressive dinner

Aimee Fortney — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 15:30:00 -0800

Never heard of a progressive dinner? This dinner party has not just one location, but at least four locations. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to party!

Add a touch of love to your next party

Alicia McDonald — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 03:00:00 -0800

If you want to host a party for Valentine's Day that no one will forget, there's no one better to turn to than Courtney Whitmore of Pizzazzerie.

Decorating tips for an awards party

Claire Gallam — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:36:00 -0800

It's officially award season! You may not be able to strut down the red carpet in designer gowns, but you can still host an Oscar-worthy party at your own home. From centerpieces to red carpets to glittery printables, we've got you covered to throw a party worthy of an award!

Throw a Super Bowl Sunday party for kids

Maria Mora — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 10:00:00 -0800

Celebrate football’s biggest night with football’s littlest fans. With these kid-tested snacks and age-appropriate activities, throw a family-friendly Super Bowl party the grownups will love too.

Secrets for a winning Super Bowl party

Katarina Kovacevic — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 15:27:00 -0800

HGTV’s Monica Pedersen is sharing her secrets to throwing the perfect Super Bowl party. Called the “radiant, high-energy mistress of ceremonies” by The New York Times, Monica’s tips will turn you into the hostess with the mostess.

Ted Allen, host of Chopped, cuts through the stress of holiday entertaining

Patricia Conte — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 09:15:00 -0800

What do you get when you bring together some of the finest chefs, both as competitors and judges, several baskets of food with seemingly strange combinations and a James Beard award-winning host and journalist who is also a food and wine connoisseur? That would be Food Network’s cooking competition show, Chopped.

Entertaining tips for the new year

Terri O — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 07:54:00 -0800

Just because the holiday-themed get-togethers will become a thing of the past with the new year doesn’t mean your party-throwing opportunities are over. To minimize your stress, save you time and facilitate throwing perfect parties all year-round, here are a few entertaining tips to make you the hostess with the mostest, regardless of the season.

Katie Lee's holiday entertaining tips

Karen Miner — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:30:00 -0800

Entertaining during the holidays can be stressful, but with a little advance preparation and some practical tips, you’ll be entertaining like a pro in no time. Find out how Katie Lee makes holiday entertaining a breeze.

Expert tips for planning the ultimate holiday party

Claire Gallam — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 05:10:00 -0800

Throwing a holiday party can be extremely stressful. From picking out the right linens to creating a stunning centerpiece and crafting the perfect menu, it's certainly not an easy undertaking. To help ease the stress, we've asked Jacin of Lovely Little Details, a full-service wedding, event and floral styling company, to give us her expert tips on throwing an unforgettable bash.

Decorating Diva: Our best fall entertaining guide

Jessica Padykula — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 12:07:00 -0700

Welcome to Decorating Diva, where every week we share fresh, fun ways to update your home and spice up your living space! This week we're sharing all the latest tips and trends for how to decorate and what to serve at your next fall soiree.

5 Tailgate products we love

Karen Miner — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 14:17:00 -0700

Tailgate season is in full swing and these products will make your parking lot party even better!

Add a touch of class with DIY cocktail party decor

Kelli Uhrich — Sun, 01 Jul 2012 01:00:00 -0700

Keeping up with life's demands doesn’t leave much room for time with your friends. When everyone finally comes together for a night of fun, leave a lasting impression that keeps them coming back time and time again. Get the high-impact look at a low-budget cost for a cocktail party with a touch of DIY class!

How to creatively display desserts

Kelli Uhrich — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 01:48:00 -0700

Sugar and spice and everything nice — that’s what sweets are made of! You've taken the time to bake, ice and decorate your treats. Don't sell them short at the table! Display desserts with style by following five simple steps.

How to plan a cocktail party

Kelli Uhrich — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 01:26:00 -0700

You’ve made the rounds to your favorite weekend hot spots. It’s the same old scene week after week, and it’s time to break the mold! This weekend let your social life come to you with a cocktail party designed to thrill. We’ve got you covered every step of the way!

How to pick the right serving accessories

Linda Melone, CSCS — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 01:24:00 -0700

Imagine attending a black tie affair in a floor-length gown… while wearing a pair of combat boots. It’s not a good move if you’re trying to impress. The same holds true for preparing a nice meal. The serving accessories you choose can either complement or work against all your hard work. Here’s how to make the right choices.

How to set your table for a summer BBQ

Kelli Uhrich — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 01:16:00 -0700

Fire up the grill and get outside! With summer just around the corner, we’ll show you how to set a knock-your-socks-off table that’s perfect for outdoor entertaining. Use these five steps and you’ll have summer style that sizzles!

Decorating Diva: 8 stylish ways to impress your guests

Jessica Padykula — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:08:00 -0700

Welcome to Decorating Diva, where every week we share fresh, fun ways to update your home and spice up your living space! We love to entertain -- there’s nothing quite like planning and executing a successful social event, whether it’s a cocktail party, pool party or formal multi-course meal. The key is to create a space conducive to entertaining. Impress your guests at your next gathering with our expert tips.

10 Things your guest room needs

Nichole Beaudry — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:00:00 -0700

Before your next houseguests arrive, gather up these 10 thoughtful and practical items to place in your guest room. Make their stay as comfortable as possible and show them just how happy you are to have them for a visit.

5 Tips for stress-free entertaining

Katherine Martinelli — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 06:00:00 -0700

If thoughts of guests arriving, pots simmering and cakes baking give you heart palpitations, then take a deep breath. Just keep these simple tips for entertaining in mind and you’ll be smooth sailing.