Book excerpt: From the author of The Newlywed Table, this helpful handbook offers readers 100 easy entertaining recipes, party planning advice, and curated menus to pull off the most delicious and delightful of gatherings, from an epic holiday bash to a casual get-together in the backyard, or an inspired dinner party. Ready to throw a dinner party? It’s easier than you think. With 100 crowd-pleasing recipes and expert tips and tricks, The Hostess Handbook shows how to create an event that’s warm, joyous, and imbued with the special glowy feeling of a celebration that we never want to end. Everything you need to know is here. How to plan a fantastic menu with foolproof recipes for finger foods, make-ahead mains (because you don’t want to be in the kitchen when your guests arrive), and festive desserts. How to get your home party-ready, whether hosting two people or twenty, with primers on setting the table, the art of serving, and flower arranging. And drinks, of course—including recipes for both classic cocktails and delicious nonalcoholic libations. Cheers!