1. Update Your Guest List. Sure, inviting the usual suspects is quick and easy. You know your friends' likes and dislikes, you understand any special dietary requirements, and you won't risk leaving someone out and hurting anyone's feelings. But honestly, inviting the same people time and again is akin to driving the same road at the same time (and the same speed) day after day. Yes, there's comfort in knowing each and every turn, but there is also the mind-numbing boredom that sets in with the same old, same old. Believe me, your guests feel it, too. The easy solution is to mix in some new acquaintances. Invite that client you find so intriguing. What about the woman who shares your pain (not to mention your side glances) each week in spinning class? Or the new neighbors down the street? You might even ask a trusted friend to bring a few of her friends along. As for facilitating conversation, keep it brief, along the lines of, "Mary, I believe you and Dave are both from San Francisco." Trust your guests to take it from there.

2. Invitations. Phone calls are fine, but written invitations are better (the newfangled, high-tech e-mail versions work well too). Why? They allow you to set the party's tone and your expectations upfront. (Go ahead, admit it. You do have a few thoughts on how the evening should flow.) Want an adults-only gathering? Encourage your guests to "line up the babysitter." Want to know how many wine glasses you'll need on hand? Include an RSVP. Will some of your guests need directions to the party? Insert them in the envelope (or attach to the electronic invite). If nothing else, your invitation's design and language will offer your guests a subtle-or not-so subtle-hint on how to dress.

3. Keep It Simple. A fabulous Signature Cocktail, tasty small bites, a sampling of desserts, maybe even a unique take-home gift. It's a simple approach to hosting that saves time and money. Think about it: stocking a full bar, mixing drinks all evening and preparing and serving a three- or four-course meal is a sure way to use up your month's leisure budget-not to mention all of your energy. The more relaxed you are as host, the more enjoyable the evening will be for your guests. For tried-and-true Signature Drink recipes, check out Party Idea 7 below. Then check out the the Six Minute Style episode on quick and easy appetizers. Add in a few more bites (whip up your own or visit your local health food store for a variety of prepared salads, quiches, cheeses and more) and you're party-perfect.

4. Create a Hook. Try something different and weave in a theme. Check out Wine and Words. It's a great way to get people talking and sipping. Want more? One of my viewers wrote that she and her friends hold Poetry and Potluck parties. Hmmm, fun and easy. We like that. Another suggestion is to hold a beer-tasting party. It's unexpected (beer tasting?) and a hit with the guys. With so many microbrews and imports available, it's easy to pull together a varied selection. Keep it super-easy by asking each guest to bring a couple of unique bottles. Grill up some burgers, pass the guacamole and chips, and in no time, you've thrown together the perfect backyard bash.

5. Be Prepared. (or "empty the front hall closet"). I feel awkward showing up at a party only to stand in the doorway, coat in hand, while the hostess struggles to clear a hanger. Carve out 15 minutes before your guests arrive and move your family's coats, jackets and other garb into a back room. Make sure you have plenty of hangers, especially during the colder months. Got pets? Great. Furniture got pet hair? Not so good. Give your chairs and couches a quick vacuum. Your girlfriend in the little black dress will thank you. Check the bathroom. Is there a full roll of toilet paper on the dispenser? If not, replace it with a new roll. And what about parking? Will your guests find ample parking on your street or are spaces at a premium? If so, make note of this on the invitation and suggest alternatives. Perhaps you can secure a section of parking lot at a nearby store, shopping center or church.

6. Three Words: Rental Supply Company. Having the appropriate dishware, glassware, serving pieces (think chafing dishes) and linens makes serving a breeze. Caterers uses these companies all the time, and you can, too. Best of all? When the party's over, simply stack dirty dishes and glasses back into their crates and return as is. No need to wash.

7. Signature Cocktail. Add a little "wow" with a Signature Cocktail. One fun and festive drink can set the tone for the entire evening. Ever sampled a Green Tea Martini? Chances are your guests haven't either. Imagine their delight when you present them with this yummy, and unexpected, green cocktail. In the Six Minute Style episode on Signature Cocktails, you'll find the recipe, along with three others: Pomopolitan, Kir Royale and Black Velvet. And don't skimp on glassware. You want your special drink to feel and look special. Remember Tip 5, and order up those champagne flutes or martini glasses. You'll be glad you did.

And, plan ahead for the cocktail recipe requests you're sure to receive by detailing your signature drink on colorful index cards. Attach them via ribbon to gift bags containing a small bottle of the main ingredient or a sampling of the possible garnishes. Your guests will be impressed with your ingenuity.

8. Flowers/Decorations. Floral arrangements are lovely, and if your budget allows, I say go for it. If, however, you prefer to spend your hard-earned cash on beer and wine upgrades (and I think you should), you'll want to do the following. Forgo you the floral shop and visit a bulk retailer like Costco. You'll find an impressive variety of fresh flowers (even roses) at a great price point. If you're looking for a simple but impressive centerpiece, refer to Make this Floral Arrangement. Other ideas? Stroll through your backyard. Colorful leaves, pussywillows, acorns and pine cones-even a bunch of gnarly twigs-can add interest and flair to your presentation. Bunch them up or arrange them around your buffet. Be creative and have fun with it. It is a party, after all.

9. Kids' Party Table. Ah, the kids. Should you or shouldn't you? Invite them, that is. Not a question to be pondering on the day of the event. Plan ahead and make sure your guests know your decision. No parent wants to show up with three kids in tow, only to realize that theirs are the only ones in attendance (and think about the kids, all alone in a room full of grown-ups. Jeez.). If kids are invited, hire a sitter or set aside a room where they can laugh, romp and play. If they're dining with you, set up a Kids Party Table just for them. I'm not talking about a wobbly card table, the much-maligned kid's corner often set up during the holidays. Make it a fun space where kids can doodle, eat, spill and giggle to their heart's content. Remember, the happier the kids, the more relaxed the parents and the more successful your party.

10. Relax. Breathe deep and smile. You've covered all the bases. Happy hosting.

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