"When the opportunity for celebrating knocks, answer the door and offer it some champagne!" says Karen Bussen. Author of the bestselling "Simple Stunning" wedding series, Bussen now directs her expert€s eye to a more intimate kind of festivity: the at-home party. Her simple stunning credo, though, remains the same: Create menus featuring wonderful ingredients in no-fuss, crowd-pleasing preparations; combine homemade and store-bought items in fresh, elegant presentations; tailor colors, tableware, and lighting for visual impact; and limit effort, expense, and waste.

 

The book details 12 complete plans for four different kinds of parties-cocktail gatherings, casual suppers, formal dinners, and daytime get-togethers. Each plan includes food and drink menus (with recipes) as well as decor and music suggestions. Following Bussen€s advice, you€ll delight your guests while showcasing your personal style-which is what great parties are all about.