Good Morning Darlings!

Lots of websites tell you what to eat, what to cook and what to drink during the season of the party.

But what about the rest?

I am going to tell you the things I cannot do without while getting ready to throw a party. And you might be surprised.

1. Clorox Wipes. How did I ever live without these things? Don’t lose your mind deep cleaning your house for company. Seriously. Company will blow in like a hurricane and mess up everything. Deep clean after they leave so you can enjoy it. Use those Clorox Wipes before they arrive. Then all you have to do is pick up the really big dust bunnies. This tactic works best on close friends, not pesky family members who feel like they need to do a white glove test. Just don’t invite those people and all will be well.

2. Dryer sheets. Nothing is homier than a luscious pan of cheesy lasagna. Nothing is worse than all that stuck on cheese afterwards. My tip? Fill the pan with hot, soapy water and then stick a dryer sheet in the pan with the sudsy water. Next morning? It wipes clean like magic. I use this trick ALL the time.

3. Stainless steel. Are you cutting up a boodle of onions and garlic? Do your hands smell like those onions and garlic? Just rub your hands on stainless steel. Could be the bottom of your sink. Takes the odor out immediately. I have no idea how or why this works, I just chalk it up to kitchen magic.

4. Candles. Tons of candles mask a multitude of dust. Light lots of candles (3x more than you think you need) and everyone will look luminous. Best trick in the book.

5. Liquor. The only thing that makes people look better than candlelight is a warm glow of wine.

6. Laughter. Giggle a bunch, drink a stiff drink before the house is invaded, and glow.

I’m sure there’s more, but it’s a start.

I know your parties will be perfect!

xoxo, Patti

Today blogging to Leslie Gore – It’s My Party