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Planning Your Holiday Party

The Southern Living Party Cookbook

The holidays are the time for entertaining. 

Whether planning a small dinner party or a big cocktail party, the process can be a bit overwhelming.

To help make your holidays a little less stressful, I asked my friend Elizabeth Heiskell to share some advice. Elizabeth just penned the updated version of “The Southern Living Party Cookbook.” 

The original book came out in the 1970s and has been Southern Living’s number one selling cookbook over the years.  Elizabeth just gave it a modern spin.

Her first piece of advice is a simple one, but important to take at heart when hosting a soiree.

One of the things that people need to realize, she said, is that you are inviting your friends over. The party is supposed to be fun for them and you. They just are grateful to have been included.

A little advance planning can make the world of difference.

Make as much ahead as possible. So many dishes freeze well or can be made a day in advance she explained.  Plan ahead so you are relaxed and ready when your guests arrive.

Her next piece of advice is one detail that most of us forget.

Most people use their side entrance for everyday use.  Her suggestion? Before guests are coming over, look out your front door to remove any dried plants or cobwebs. You want your front entrance to be welcoming and inviting.

Lastly, Elizabeth wanted me to remind you that under no circumstances should you worry about cleaning your baseboards! In fact, don’t bother cleaning anything below your waist she explained with a giggle. Your guests will be looking at eye level, not the ground!

This is Jennifer Chandler with The Weekly Dish. Happy Holidays!

Jennifer Chandler graduated at the top of her class from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. She is a full-time mom to two daughters in Memphis, Tennessee, and is a freelance food writer, restaurant consultant, and author of four cookbooks The Southern Pantry Cookbook, Simply Salads, Simply Suppers, and Simply Grilling.