Choices abound when looking for books and resources about cooking and easy entertaining. The Food Network has fueled renewed interest in cooking and home entertaining to an astonishing level. Television shows present celebrity cooks/chefs who give weekly creative ideas and know-how to viewers. Internet cooking sites and blogs are bursting at the seams with creative ideas for entertaining.
How does someone new to cooking and entertaining assimilate all of the information? Is it possible for a beginner to wade through the phenomenal amount of information without being completely overwhelmed? Does the landslide of knowledge on invitations, decorations, menus, tablescapes, theme parties, wine lists and party planning tend to discourage some rather than encourage?
While all of this information is a virtual cornucopia of lovely, fresh ideas, those new to entertaining and cooking need to concentrate on doing a few important things well rather than to make the mistake of thinking they need to master all of the above at the outset in order to be successful. In other words, beginners need to concentrate on the basics. They will gain skills and confidence and will be able to pull off enjoyable entertaining from the very beginning. So what are the basics?
While there is nothing wrong with using intricate invitations, complicated menus and fussy decorations, they are not necessary to have a memorable dinner party for family and friends. There are 3 main areas that beginners should concentrate on when hosting casual entertaining.
The food
The table
The fun and relaxed tone set by the host
If you concentrate your efforts on these 3 main areas you will pull off your first entertaining with style and efficiency. In Part 2 of this article, we will concentrate on specific easy and helpful tips in the three main areas.
Patricia Mendez, copyright 2008
Patricia is the author of the book, Easy Entertaining for Beginners. Sign up for her free monthly newsletter with entertaining recipes and tips, all designed for beginners. Receive a free bonus downloadable e-booklet, Party Etiquette 101 when you sign up.
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