How to have a labor-less Labor Day

With the Labor Day and the end of Summer almost here, I know many of you are planning get togethers with family and friends.  In case you missed my recent segment on foxnews.com, I thought this would be a good time to share my tips for having a "labor-less" Labor Day party.

- My first "Rabido" for throwing a Labor Day party is "Keep it simple"!  From the food to the cocktails you do not have to be extravagant.

- Second, rally your friends to help and be specific in what you ask.  Don't just ask guests to bring something, you may wind up with 10 bags of potato chips!  Tell guests specifically what they can bring to make sure you have a well rounded menu.  

- Prepare food that you can make ahead of time.  You do not want to be rushed making everything on the day of the party or worse, cooking while guests are there.  You want to enjoy the party along with your guests so plan ahead.

- Think of food that can be served at room temperature and that will not quickly spoil.  This will keep you out of the kitchen and will avoid any issues on a hot day.

- Since Labor Day is a casual holiday for family and friends I recommend serving everything family style.  Again, take the burden off of yourself and allow guests to serve themselves.

-  The 'self service" idea also applies to the bar.  I recommend a simple bar with wine and a specialty cocktail that can be made in a large pitcher.  If you want to add a twist, ask guests to bring their favorite micro brew that can then be added to the bar for guests to sample.

For other great ideas and recipes visit www.celebrations.com, and stay tuned as I prepare to launch my own line of invitations and stationery on www.finestationery.com

Until next time,

Cheers!

Take the "labor" out of Labor Day

With Labor Day quickly approaching I know many of you are planning get togethers with family and friends for this end of Summer holiday.  Preparing for the party does not have to be an all consuming chore. 

Tomorrow, August 17, at 12:40PM, I will be sharing some great time saving tips and suggestions for unique food and cocktails online at Fox News Live.  I will also be sharing some great invitation ideas from FineStationery.com.  Check it out and let me know your best tips when planning for a fun and easy Labor Day! 

Until next time,

Cheers!