Calculate the number of appetizers to make based on number of guests and length of party. Usually guests will eat a sampling of 3 to 4 different dishes over the course of a 3 to 4 hour party.

Have a selection of hot and cold appetizers. Place bowls of nuts, chips and crackers in strategic locations.

Do as much as you can ahead of time including picking out the serving dishes.

Stock up on small plates, forks and festive napkins to set out in several areas.

Have plenty of self-serve drinks on hand—ranging from a variety of beers to bottled water and soft drinks. We like to fill a large leak proof bucket or cooler with ice and arrange bottles of Bohemia, Dos Equis amber and lager and assorted flavors of Jarritos soft drinks in the ice. Set bowls of cut limes and lemons near the cooler.

Use fun stickers for guest to personalize their glasses (and their plates) to minimize “losing” drinks during the party.