1) You can not do everything by yourself: Ask for a lending hand. Whether it is to help set up, pick out invitations, or to bring beverages, a little help goes a long way. It will also ease your mind on small tasks and you can focus on more important things.

2) Make a “To-Do” list: This is very important. You will forget something…. trust me, you will. Make a list of anything and everything you can think of that will go into the party. Making a list will help you organize your thoughts and will help you ease into the planning process with such simplicity.

3) Be very flexible: Relax and realize that not everything is going to go as smooth as you have planned. There will be setbacks with the catering company, you will forget something until the last minute and have to run out to the store, or someone will forget to bring something. Take all the mishaps and setbacks and view it as the laughable moments of hosting parties. Don’t let the guest know you have been huffing and puffing over small details. Parties are enjoyable and you should approach it with simplicity and calmness.

4) Figure out a guest list early: This is the key to a successful party. Know how many people will actually be attending, this way you can over prepare and no one will go hungry or thirsty. It’s important to send out invites no less than a month early. This will give people plenty of time to figure out whatever plans they need to be there and enough time for you to prepare for the number. This will also be helpful if your party is a sit down dinner. On the invitations be clear on what you want the party to be like. Let the guest know if the attire is casual or formal, where to RSVP, and all the other necessary information they will need.

5) Enjoy the party: Hosting a party should be enjoyable! Relax and have a glass of champagne and enjoy yourself along with your good company.  Give yourself enough time to get ready and be prepared well before the guests arrive. This way you will not feel overwhelmed the second the first person rings the doorbell.

6) Keep your guests feeling welcome: Make sure you warmly greet everyone that comes through the door. If you notice a guest with a empty cup or sitting alone, remedy the situation at best. At the end of the party thank each one of your guests for coming. Never send anyone home with out a friendly goodbye.

7) Make sure you know your guests: Yes it is hard to please everyone, but try to know who is coming to the party. If it’s a group of friends who love a certain wine, then stock up on their drink of choice. If you know some of your friends are vegetarians, then have a few healthy bites for them. Knowing your guest will make for a happier party!

8) Use what you know: If you are doing all of the cooking for the party make sure you are cooking recipes you actually know how to. No one wants to show up to a house with a stressed out host! If you do want to try something new, I suggest making it a few times before the big event.

9) Decorating is fun: I always think getting decorations is the best part of hosting a party. It’s fun to figure out what napkins best match the plates and accessories. If it is a themed party, tie all of the decorations around the theme, without over doing it. Pinterest is a great source for creative ideas. Martha Stewart is a godsend as well! Decorating is where you may need a helping hand–a third eye. Having a second opinion will help make decisive decisions.

10) Invest in good products: If you are one to host a lot of get-together it’s time to purchase quality platters, bottle openers, wine glasses, and other entertainment decor. It will save time in preparation and you will feel proud and excited to display them!