Summer Entertaing Tips

Enjoy the summer with these tips and links:

Lighten up your summer menus. When planning menus keep food safety in mind.

Shop your local farmer’s market for fresh produce.

Have plenty of beverages and include bottled water to keep your guests hydrated.

In the mood for some new dishes to serve your guests with? Try QVC's melamine dishes.

Supply shade for your guests, whether a tent or an umbrella, give them a chance to get out of the sun.

Consider having an old fashion ice cream social.

Visit about.com for Ball jar entertaining ideas.

Free table plans with DYI

Tip - Make the List for After Christmas Sales

As you go along, make a list of the items you need to fill  in your entertaining goody bag.  Watch for sale items after the holidays, to make your entertaining easier or to add a bang  to you party.

Your Entertaing Notebook1

After you get home from the sales and sit down to catch your breath, take out your entertaining notebook.  You want to do this while everything is fresh in your mind.

Make a list of everything you put on the table with the amount ie: turkey 20 lbs. Now next to each item note whether you had leftovers and if you want it on your next menu.

Make notes of linens, tablescape, list of people  attending, and anything you want to change or add for the next time. You can use these notes for planning your Christmas dinner.

Things to help get you started

Let's get started with easy entertaining. You need a few tools to help keep you organized starting with a notebook (three ring) notebook paper, page protectors, tabs and a calendar. These items will enable you to know what events are coming up, what entertaining supplies (table cloths, dishes, etc.) you have on hand and what you need to purchase along with menu/party ideas.