A Busy Mom's Guide to Entertaining

by Lisa A. Stukel

When my children were young, diapers, deadlines and housekeeping kept me from inviting people over, until I discovered simple, elegant ways to entertain without breaking my piggy bank, or my sanity. Despite busy work schedules and children's activities, it is possible to host an easy dinner party or an outdoor barbecue. A Busy Mom's Guide to Entertaining will provide you with suggestions on how to host gatherings both large and small while juggling the demands of motherhood. Simmering in these pages, you will find tips on what to keep in your pantry, best places to host children's birthday parties, setting up the guest bedroom, hosting ladies themed parties, outdoor living entertaining, brunches, entertaining house guests, and many more. The recipes in this book are delicious and easy to assemble...music to any busy mom's ears. So, set down your diaper bag and grab your spatula, it's time to start entertaining. No matter how simple or formal the event, your guests will enjoy the opportunity to spend time with you and your children. The friendships cultivated by inviting people over to your house will be immeasurable and long lasting.

148 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 2008

Reviews

[Sarah Keeley]

This book is a great soup to nuts guide to entertaining all types of friends and colleagues. Hosting playdates, birthday parties, family and friends are all included. The author provides a wealth of specific suggestions on how to impress your guests of all ages. No details are left out. I would recommend it!

[Jennifer Deane]

This book is a must-have for all moms of young children. From playdates and birthday parties to formal dinner parties, Lisa shares her creative ideas, recipes, and steps to take that will most definitely lead to a successful party. She takes much of the stress associated with entertaining out by providing helpful hints, short cuts, and sharing personal experiences. The personal anecodotes interwoven throughout, make this book a pleasure to read. I love the step by step approach to entertaining-it makes so much sense and makes entertaining seem so much less overwhelming. I hosted my first "Mom's Night Out" recently, and used this book to guide me through the process. Not only was the planning greatly simplified, the night was a complete success and I was able to enjoy the time with my friends!

[Kelly Ianelli]

Bought this book and read it cover to cover in one day. Easy to read and funny too. Whether you are contemplating a birthday party for a group of crazy toddlers or an elegant adult dinner party it has useful info, simple checklists and great and easy recipes to help you get from the planning stage to the party stage. It motivated me to quit talking about having that party and send out the invites. One of the suggestions is to throw a "Quesadilla Party". The author lists the simple ingredients you need and gives special hints on how to make the tortillas golden brown and crisp. I haven't thrown a quesadilla party yet but it did motivate me to go out and buy a $19 quesadilla maker and now I have a guaranteed go-to quick and easy dinner that all 4 of my kids will eat! That right there was worth the price of the book and the quesadilla maker combined!

[Lori Barnes]

In the midst of a mom's busy schedule which can be so overwhelming it is hard to even think about entertaining or to recollect "good old fashion fun". This book adds light to the benefits of jumping out of our busy schedules to bond with our children, family and friends and lays out the fundamentals and plans to do so (from turning playdate snacks into a pirate adventures to hosting large dinner parties).This is a must have for any mom or expecting mom. What a great shower gift!

[M Maffiore]

Loved this book! All the entertaining topics are covered with fun stories we can all realte to! The tips and ideas make it a perfect resource for any entertaining you may be doing. The recipes and websites are also a big help - I've used a few of the Light Appetizer recipes with rave reviews!

ENJOY!

[Sheri]

This is a wonderful, practical and entertaining book. Full of recipes to use for every occassion - playdates to dinner parties. Plus ideas for birthday parties and very practical suggestions on how to fit entertaining into a busy mom's life. Loved it.

[Pat]

A quick, fun read. Whether you’re raising a family, working full-time or juggling both--everyone can relate to the stories the author tells. I find myself going back and looking for recipes to try. It is a practical guide for serving up great times!

[Susan Bassett]

Lisa's captured what we all need right now: easy -- and economical way to have fun! I highly recommend her book to anyone looking to create memories with family and friends.

[Carol Quinlan]

What a great book on entertaining! I loved all the easy suggestions and recipes for hosting an event! Highly recommend the book!

[Ashley]

A wonderful book full of great ideas and simple recipes!