Simplify entertaining
If you love theideaof throwing parties, but stress out when it's time to make the dip and chill the champagne, this handy little spiral-bound compendium of terrific tips will get you revved up again. As the authors, identical twins Mary Corpening Barber and Sara Corpening, say reassuringly, "Emily Post isn't coming to your party." Mary and Sara tell how to throw everything from a modest business party in a restaurant to a big dinner party in the garden, with the keynote being simplicity. You won't find hints on formal wedding receptions here, but plenty of help with 99 percent of the kind of entertaining that most of us do. It's even got tips on getting the kids to help, removing inevitable carpet and upholstery stains, and minimizing post-party cleanup.