I love to entertain.  Nothing makes me happier than inviting people into my home for food and friendship, cocktails and conversation. 

Many people are afraid to entertain. They think it’s too complicated or expensive or stressful.  It doesn’t have to be.  If you watch the various home shows, you’ll be even more intimidated.  They all seem to assume that you have a large house, professionally landscaped yard, different sets of china and table linen for every occasion, and infinite amounts of prep time.  They emphasize the need for fancy invitations, a multi-course menu anchored with a "custom cocktail," and a "tablescape."  None of those things are essential.  Often, they are just ways to impress you with how knowledgeable the hosts are. 

(For the record, a "tablescape" used to be called a centerpiece, maybe with place cards for a more formal event.)

I entertain 4-6 times a year and I live in a house that’s less than 1000 square feet.  I have no dining room and no dishwasher.  Yet somehow, I survive and my parties come off.  Remember: You are inviting people to share good food and good company, not to shoot the cover of Architectural Digest.  No one expects perfection.  They expect you.  After all, you are inviting your friends.

Over the next few posts, I’ll break down the basics of entertaining, using my own upcoming Harvest Brunch as an example.  We’ll start with a planned informal event because that’s really the easiest way to start entertaining. 

Contrary to popular opinion, last minute gatherings are often the hardest.  They assume your house is always ready for guests. (My house frequently has dishes in the sink and laundry in the living room. Nothing says "Welcome to my home" like lingerie under the sofa cushions.)  Also, to throw last minute parties, you need to have party food basics on hand at all times.  Knowing what and how much to buy takes planning and experience. 

Why start with what’s hard? Start with the basics and work your way up as you get more comfortable.

Tomorrow we’ll look at the first step in entertaining:  Answering the critical questions: What? Who? When?