Last-Minute Entertaining
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-639 -- More Projects »
Entertaining expert Dana Christine shares tips on how to prepare for last-minute entertaining.
- To clean up in a dash, just grab a laundry basket and walk around the house. Place any clutter in the basket (figure A). Stash the basket in an inconspicuous place. Go through the basket and put everything in its place once your guests are gone.
- Candles make a room cozy and inviting, so keep plenty of them around the house in case you need to set a mood in a hurry. Vanilla candles make excellent room deodorizers.
A few bags of precut vegetables are a quick way to make a crunchy veggie platter (figure B). Set out some bottled dressing and you're good to go.Keep a stock of gourmet foods in the pantry, along with a good bottle of wine for an instant appetizer plate.For a quick appetizer, cut a loaf of French bread into slices. Dip bread in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.Top frozen pound cake with whipped topping and crushed candy bars.Make frozen drinks for guests by blending together a can of frozen juice concentrate with liquor or soda. Garnish with fruit and serve in wine glasses. This couldn't be easier, and your guests will think you went to a lot of trouble.
Know at least one good decorative napkin fold, such as the basic accordion fold (figure C), and use it.Sprinkle flower petals on a tablecloth for an elegant look.If you need a bouquet of flowers at the last minute, just look outside. Flowering shrubs, berries, decorative grasses and actual flowers make lovely last-minute arrangements.
Guests Dana Christine
Entertaining Expert
Grand Rapids, MN
Phone: 612-819-6611
E-mail:
Danaholzinger@yahoo.com
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