The guest list is THE most important aspect for a successful party. There is no excuse for neglecting this detail as it is one of the simplest things to do. As a simple rule of thumb, the greatest parties are with people who are comfortable mixing around naturally.

Also a comfortable house party would do well working around 20 odd people. The smaller the number, the easier it is to crowd control and get the party moving. Keep dogs and babies away for the fear of them being party poopers.

Always serve finger food and nothing less. If you wan to fill them up, the most cost-effective way is to throw in loads if carb. Easy to make examples would be sandwiches, garlic bread, potato salad, simple pastas, cakes, etc.

Whenever possible try to serve food on presentable house ware, not plastic plates. First impressions count. Leave the plastic plates for guests use.

Oh, and make sure there are anough drinks and ice to go along. Naturally, the host will be responsible for providing the alcohol, wine, etc, and the guests will bring mixers as a form of warm exchange of greetings at the door. Then get friends to be in charge of drinks, involving your guests will make them feel at home.

Stack rolls of toilet paper in the toilet and save yourself this task during the party. Bringing out the tissue boxes and kitchen rolls in advance will also save the hassle and keep it convenient for your guests.

Allocate a room (or some space at least) for bags, coats or item drop-offs. You wouldn't want a fully grown man to be resting his weight on someone's else's new 9mm thick hand phone left on the couch.

The midas touch to any supern party, really. Your guests will be able to tell that you have everything under control, since you had the time to be bothered with the details. The usual balloons and streamers are fine, but please do not leave them in dangling proportions for people ona high to trip on or for any sorts of accidental suicide attempts.

You may also want to dim the light so that everyone looks perfectly concealed, allowing oily faces to transform into the natural glow they talk about in beauty magazines.

... to be continued