Whether throwing a cocktail party, a birthday buffet or a summer picnic, this guide is full of helpful information and recipes. Thorough planning is the key to success and key advice on all the essentials, from deciding on the type of party, making the guest lists and seating plans to creating the appropriate atmosphere, table stylings and decorations is given, as is guidance on how to estimate food and drink requirements. Plan your menu down to the last detail with over 150 recipes to select from. Choose from finger foods, dips and dippers to brunches, lunches and light suppers with tasty dishes such as Quail's Eggs with Parma Ham to main buffet dishes with Baked Salmon with Watercress Sauce. Or make a big-bowl dish - Celebration Paella - when having friends round for dinner. From the day you decide to have a party, to washing up the glasses after the last guest has left, this book should have useful advice on how to make your party one to remember.