“When the opportunity for celebrating knocks, answer the door and offer it some champagne!” says Karen Bussen. Author of the bestselling “Simple Stunning” wedding series, Bussen now directs her expert’s eye to a more intimate kind of festivity: the at-home party. Her simple stunning credo, though, remains the same: Create menus featuring wonderful ingredients in no-fuss, crowd-pleasing preparations; combine homemade and store-bought items in fresh, elegant presentations; tailor colors, tableware, and lighting for visual impact; and limit effort, expense, and waste.
The book details 12 complete plans for four different kinds of parties—cocktail gatherings, casual suppers, formal dinners, and daytime get-togethers. Each plan includes food and drink menus (with recipes) as well as decor and music suggestions. Following Bussen’s advice, you’ll delight your guests while showcasing your personal style—which is what great parties are all about.
Karen Bussen is a well-known New York–based wedding planner and the author of five books in STC’s “Simple Stunning” wedding series. She has been featured on Inside Edition and other TV programs, and she was the cooking and entertaining expert on the DIY Network’s Home Made Easy.