Quote of the Week

Today's "Quote of the Week" is a bit different from the usual weekly post. Since it's the season for entertaining, I've selected a handful of helpful quotes from designers, bloggers and experts on the topic of hosting a holiday soiree...

"Have a stiff drink before anyone arrives. If you are having fun, everyone will have fun."
 —Miles Redd, designer

"Don't come to a party empty-handed."

 —Jayne Michaels, designer

 "Don't tidy up the table too soon. Once the plates are cleared away, often so is the mood."

—Lisa Borgnes Giramonti, abloomsburylife.blogspot.com

 "Always do favors. People love leaving with a little something."

—Amen Wardy, retailer/tastemaker

 "Let guests make their own cocktails. I have a few favorite recipes on cards, and all the ingredients on hand. People mix and shake and think it's super-fun."

 —Paul Lowe, food/prop stylist, Sweet Paul

"Keep hors d'oeuvres to one bite. No one wants to talk or kiss with a mouthful."

—Larry Laslo, designer

 "Always, always make introductions. If you're going to make a guest feel alienated, why invite them?"

—Jessica Nell Graves, thelovelist.net

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ALL QUOTES VIA HOUSE BEAUTIFUL