In light of my tentative plans to bully every relation into coming to my (soon - to - be - I - hope) new home for Thanksgiving, I've been flipping through old magazines and cookbooks like a crazed fiend.
But of course, the plain sensibility of these tips in the small excerpt below have brought me back to reality. Somewhat.
Don't do more than your household is equipped to do with ease and distinction. The secret of good service is not to attempt too much.
Don't have more guests than you can take care of easily. People remember a restful well-served little dinner. No one has a good time at a crowded badly managed party.
Don't attempt dishes beyond your culinary skill. Try the fancy ones on your family before springing them on your friends.
Don't try to be grand. Everyone sees through it and nothing is so forlorn as a pretentious party. The most distinguished entertaining is simple, done with ease and naturalness.
Don't leave everything until the last minute. A tired flustered hostess is no good to herself or friends.
Do let the menu, service, decorations, etc., have the stamp of your personality. The talked-of party is the one reflecting the taste and individuality of the hostess. Mere correctness and routine are dull.
Do keep your table decorations low and the candles high. Your guests might like to see one another; mounds of flowers never furthered good table talk.
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