Entertaining At Home

These pretty platters actually make a lot of sense.

Both online and IRL.

Happy Diwali!

Do you fantasize about having the kind of home that everyone wants to hang out in? Do you daydream about dinner parties where the lights are lit low, the food is delicious and the conversation a mix of intelligent discourse and lighthearted teasing? Do you want to start your own tradition with friends in your own home? Whatever your reasons for wanting to have the kind of place that your friends always want to hang out in, here are the things to try in your space to transform it.

If you are hosting a party this Sunday, you may be pretending that it’s all about the outcome of the battle between Patriots and Seahawks. But, everyone knows that the real reason for any party is for everyone to have a good time and the best way to make that happen is to be a relaxed and happy host. If you want your Superbowl shindig to be a success, the time between now and Sunday evening is key.

I’ve been working with flowers for a few years now, yet somehow I do not own a vase. Not a single one – and frankly, you don’t need one! When it’s time to display some flowers, I can always scrounge up plenty of teapots, teacups, bottles, bowls, and more. Here are some of my favorite flower-holding alternatives. Teapot: Above we have my grocery store flower arrangement, plonked in a teapot.

If you’ve ever wondered if The Clapper works as great as the commercial is or if the ShamWow! really can clean up all of that water then consider hosting a White Elephant gift exchange holiday party this year with a fun twist – As Seen On TV products. Check out party details after the jump.RULES FOR THE WHITE ELEPHANT GIFT EXCHANGE:1) Ask your guests to bring a wrapped and unlabeled As Seen on TV gift.

Here's how to keep them stress-free at your next holiday party.

Be gone, awkward before-the-food-is-ready gap!

Whether it's a slumber party for the kiddos or an all-nighter with your friends.

This is why I bring Champagne and Cheez-its to every party.

Marble trays, mirror boxes, and macrame, oh my!

Cheers to a bar cart that’s stocked for everyone.

You've brought your date home — now, what? Check out this advice from queer dating coach Ariella Serur.

Taste the rainbow with this easy at-home social.

This seven-course meal with friends is a new core memory.

Whether it's your first or hundredth time.

Entertaining at home with a new pet is possible, and it can actually be an enriching experience for your pet to build their confidence and socialization skills.

We’ve just had 74 consecutive days of below-freezing weather. There have been 24 less-than-0ºF days so far this winter. Any funds left after the holidays have gone towards buying heat and gloves. I am broke and restless, but where there is popcorn, there is hope…. Here are three ideas for fun entertainments you can have in your own home… for the low low price of nothing at all.

It tastes (almost) better than homemade.

Prepare for hours of cry-laughing with friends.

Turn your home into the most welcoming place ever, whether you're actually hosting strangers or just your in-laws

Warning: Hilarity may ensue for children (and adults) of all ages.

If you're looking to embrace the Jewish tradition as a way to bring intention and connection into your life, here's how to get started.

They're also the best gift for the puzzle lover in your life.

It'll make the ultimate stocking stuffer this year!

Even (and especially) if it feels like "just another day."

According to a plastic-free expert.

There's no time like the present to spread cheer.

It's easy to use, and so much fun.

Because anything that makes serving easier is worth the investment.