I like to think of myself as a DIY Dinner Party Diva, as much as I hate the word “diva”. I think my obsession started when I was really young and my amazing mom would host our family gatherings and holiday parties. I loved watching her decorate, cook & bake all of the food, check with everyone to make sure they are enjoying everything, and kicking up her feet once the crowd left. I even liked helping with the dishes after the party! Weird, I know. I hate dishes now!

Now that I am all grown up, I love to have friends over as often as possible, which really isn’t as often as I’d like. Even if I don’t host the party at home, I am always getting friends, colleagues and people together as much as I can. Along with the new format of The Bliss Blog, I will be featuring tips for home entertaining.

Today, I am starting with my personal top five tips for a successful home event. If you use these tips, or have some of your own, please share in our comment section! I would love to hear your ideas and questions.

1. Clean Up Your Act. Guests will notice everything, so make sure you tidy up those dusty corners and spotty glasses. My tips: Use vinegar to clean your wine glasses. Simmer some cinnamon on the stove before your guests arrive for a sweet aroma. Try using a clean cotton sock as a duster by placing it over your hand and dampening it with rubbing alcohol.

2. Bite Sized Works. Create a few different appetizers to quench your guests’ hunger. Appetizers are the quickest, and sometimes easiest, things to create. They look cute, taste great, and do the job.

3. Displaying Goes A Long Way. Think of a creative way to display your foods, especially desserts and appetizers. An easy tip? Use an upside down bowl with a plate on top to create level changes in your display. You can also use not-so-ordinary containers, like watering cans and vases, to create unusual and eye catching displays on a low budget.

4. Money Doesn’t Equal Success. This is true across the board. Save money by using items you already have, even if they don’t match! Sometimes eclectic ideas can be the cutest ones! Instead of buying new decor items, repurpose your exsisting things. I love using old wrapping paper as a “table cloth” on my food tables, or wine glasses as after dinner mint containers.

5. Keep It Simple. If you overwhelm yourself, chances are that your guests will recognize this. You set the mood for your event, so keep it simple, calm and upbeat and your guests will leave happy and full.

Image Sources: Wine Glasses, Appetizers