The buffet is a good idea for the by the pool party. Guests can pick anything they like so an abundance of food is a must do.

Some good ideas will be salads, crostinis and canapes, different types of rice or past...

The BBQ is an excellent idea for the carnivores but it can also be avoided if you offer plenty of food in different ways and forms. The BBQ has the advantage of the freshly cooked burgers, sausages and chicken or steaks but on the downsize it can be expensive and requires the attention of at least one person who will be in charge. So, before you go for it, think twice. Do you really need it?

Partygoers

1-5,6-10,10-15,15-25

Décor Christmas twinkle lights, battery-operated pillar candles and tea lights, floating candles, yards and yards of colored fabric.

Food Finger food. No utensils needed! The idea is to "grab and go."

Drinks

Sparkling apple cider served in plastic champagne glasses. Fresh

squeezed orange juice, bottled water and other individual-portion

drinks.

Invitation Go to Evite or a similar website, and

send an invitation with a movie or Italian food theme. Ask everyone to

bring a bottle of their favorite Italian wine. Make sure...

simply replace the rock-lined fire pit with a big stock pot---and you can stroll into summer with two succulent Clambake parties: Southern Style and Westcoast!

To use the fast cooking steam to its best advantage, layer seafood and vegetables, enough for six generous servings in a deep pot or canning kettle.Dense red potatoes or sweet potatoes go in first - placed on a steamer rack so they won't get soggy. E...

To keep food from sticking, brush it with olive oil or vegetable oil before placing it on the grill. For extra protection, brush the grill with oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray before heating.Grill with the top closed to retain heat and decre...

As cool drinks flow, allow guests to unwind with Bob Marley, a reggae deity. As the cocktails kick-in, step it up a beat with a sexy Rio- Brazilian vibe or retro summery selections:

I've found some incredible spice blends online, and you can't beat the convenience of mail order. You can offer spice mixtures with the flavors of India, Morocco, Jamaica, Napa Valley, Mexico, and more! Pour the spices into small identical dishes. Yo...

Create a playlist of musicLight up your backyardDecorate with bright colorsAdd new twists to traditional foods