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Here are some questions and responses from my new Instagram account, Entertain_ at_Home_with_ Maureen

• What makes a successful party? Is it expensive wine and gourmet food?

A: Of course not. Even millionaires who can afford expensive wine and gourmet food can have boring parties. A successful party is when the guests feel special and comfortable, and the host is at ease and not in the kitchen for the whole party.

• What’s the most important part of menu planning for a party?

A: The most important part of planning for a party is advance preparation, especially of your menu. Never try to cook all the dishes on the day of the party. You’ll be exhausted. Select recipes that can be made a day or two in advance. Also, never select recipes that need to be made at the last minute. You’ll be spending all your time in the kitchen and not enjoying the party with your guests.

• Are there any key facts that hosts should tell the guests before the party?

A: Yes, there are two facts that guests may be wondering about before your party. First, they’d like to know if this is a large or small party, and you should give them some idea of who’s invited. You might mention a few friends or say, “it’s the neighbors, or office friends.” Second, guests would like to know a little information about the food you’ll be serving.

There’s always food involved at any party whether it is a get-together for wine and cheese, a dessert party or if you’ll be serving dinner. You needn’t offer the whole menu but do provide some idea of the food at the party.

• If I’m a guest going to a party, should I bring a gift for the host?

you might bring a special bottle of olive oil, an imported cheese, or something you know the host would enjoy. It’s fine to bring a bottle of wine or a box of chocolate. As an especially nice gesture, say to the host, “Please keep this for yourself. You don’t have to share it with the guests.”

By Maureen Molé

Maureen Molé is a lecturer, product spokesperson, and the author of The Book of Entertaining at Home. Email her at MaureenMole@gmail.com