A LIFETIME OF ENTERTAINING

Friday, March 1, 2002

by Entertaining Expert Deborah Fabricant (NAPSA)—Entertaining for large groups, be it family affairs or for friends, can be stressful. The logistics alone might be daunting. Where do I seat everyone? Do I have enough chairs? What to do with the food...do I need a buffet? How about a beverage station? When you need that extra seating, table, or serving buffet, it can be as easy Deborah Fabricant 28 unfolding some —— tables and chairs. A good choice is Lifetime folding tables and chairs because they are durable and sturdy, and solightweight that you can lift and move them by yourself. The tables are also available in a variety of sizes so you can combine several sizes or shapes to create a unique arrange- ment for the extra space you need. With this in mind, here are some of my Party Pointers and Easy Entertaining Ideas that will ensure your next event will be an organized and successful affair. Setting The Scene: For large parties of 20, try using two tables in a “T” pattern...great for lively conversation. e Extra seating is a snap with folding chairs. The Lifetime Adjustable Tables are perfect for a tall Bar...or a low “Kiddie”table. Easy Entertaining Ideas: Pick a “theme” andcolor to carry throughout your party. Purchase fabrics from outlets, and make your invitations on the computer using colored paper. * Build a beautiful buffet with different heights: Use metal risers, upturned bowls or terracotta pots—covered with cloths, to create different levels. For larger tables, think BIG for decoration: Big bowls of lemons, tall vases with branches towering over the buffet, big pots of fresh herbs, fruits and flowers Breads tumbling out of wicker baskets laid on their sides For a sit-down affair centerpiece, bring the outdoorsin... arranging branches and leaves (magnolias work great) down the center of the table, creating a garland effect, then nestle fruits, vegetables and herbs in and around the leaves. Place votives or tea light candles in juice glasses and tuck into garland. Great solution if you are on a budget. Try “dressing up” the chairs by wrapping the backs with a complementing fabric and tie the back with a “nosegay” of leaves and herbs. * Be realistic about what you can and can’t do. If you are on a tight budget, look around you for what is seasonal and accessible. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination. (A bucket of paint and some old sheets can create a wonderful table covering. Or just use giant philodendron leaves to decorate.) It doesn’t have to be expensive, but rather a reflection of you having fun entertaining. Catering For Company: Have a goodinvitation...this sets “the stage” for your party. Plan the menu two weeks in advance. Do easy “do-ahead” dishes, thinking about the freshest ingredients, balance of flavors and howit will all look on the plate. Make as much as you can ahead of time andfreeze or refrigerate. (Breads, rolls, sauces, etc.) Find out any dietary restrictions ahead of time and try to accommodate. Ask someoneto help you in the kitchen and with cleanup. Remember to have good lighting (lots of candles) and good music. Plan food and decoration to go with the season. * Buffet food should be easy to eat... “Fork food.” Have plenty of silverware and glassware. For more tips on entertaining, or information on Deborah Fabri- cant, please visit www.artof entertaining.com. For more information about Lifetime Products, Inc. and their products, visit www.lifetime.com or call 1-800225-3865. Enjoy your party.

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