The Last Word/Jill Davie

What do you think is the key ingredient to hosting/throwing a successful party?

The key ingredient to throwing a successful party is planning. You need to be prepared and have a game plan or chances are you’ll get stuck in the kitchen and not be able to enjoy the party.

Describe your worst party disaster.

My worst party disaster was the time I decided not to make the food myself!  I was so busy that I ordered food from a local Greek restaurant and they forget to fill the order. It was a surprise party for my father and I had 40 people at my house and no food! Luckily the restaurant was able to complete my order in time. But, needless to say it was overwhelmingly stressful!

What do you like least about entertaining?

Cleaning up!!!

If you had one piece of advice for a novice entertainer, what would it be?

Keep it simple! Don’t over think a menu and make it too complicated. I always try and have the first course or salad pre-plated before the guests arrive. Oh, and have a cocktail!

Name three trends you see evolving in home entertaining.

1. Wine tasting has become a fun and educational trend in home entertaining.
2. Having guests over and cooking together.
3. Cheese tastings