Parties

My grandfather and many members of my husband’s family served in the military, so as you might imagine, patriotic holidays hold a special place in our hearts. And although we’ve not personally lost anyone (although I did have a great uncle suffer being held prisoner for several years), we as Americans tend to celebrate loved ones through sharing good food. This Memorial Day I’ll be remembering those who have sacrificed so much for our country with our traditional family backyard picnic.

Whether your child is graduating from Pre-School, Kindergarten, Middle School or High School we have fun snacks to honor their big day. These fun snacks are perfect for your graduate’s end of the year school party or for a fun family celebration at home.

To start your Cinco De Mayo party of right try mixing up a bowl of fresh, homemade guacamole. It’s easy to make and your guests will thank you for the effort. To change it up a bit, try serving with...

I’m a southern girl (living in Ohio now) and when I host a baby shower or bridal shower, I start running through the list of all the fabulous southern dessert recipes I had growing up. One of my favorites is the traditional banana pudding my sweet grandmother made almost every Sunday. This is not quite her recipe, but it was completely inspired by all the things she loved: coconut, chocolate and, of course, banana pudding!

Warmer weather is here, and with the new season I am always looking for some easy spring appetizer recipes for my family. I love to entertain, but like all moms I don’t always have time for complicated dishes. The key to a simple spring recipe is selecting the right ingredients.

Get your guests ready to cheer on their favorite team with a stadium of Cheez-It fans!  Not only will it get them in the spirit of things, it’s a great centerpiece for the rest of your football fare.

The big game is here and it’s time to cheer on your team. With family and friends gathering for the big football game, kids want to get in on the action as well.  To help keep the kids active and busy during the game, here are a few quick and easy ideas for hosting your own “Super Kid” games.

Christmas at my house has always been whimsical and magical, even for adults. This year I continued the tradition with a Christmas party themed around Santa's favorite treat, Christmas cookies. Here's how.

When my girlfriends come over for book club or a girls’ night out, they never say no to a nice glass of wine. Food and wine pairing can sound a little daunting, but every wine brings out a different flavor component in your food. Our four food and wine pairings will make these delicious and easy to assemble appetizers taste even better.

My family is spread out across the world, from France to California. But once a year everyone travels to my house to celebrate the holidays together... for 10 days. That’s why I learned to depend on delicious holiday recipes that come together in 30 minutes or less. Here are some of my favorite quick and easy holiday party recipes:

Ever since I was a little girl growing up in France, going to the cheese shop with my mother, I have been in a love affair with cheese.  From grilled cheese to cheese fondue, I can't get enough of anything made with cheese.  Whenever I'm entertaining, I love to create pretty cheese platters, and for tailgating I like using Cheez-It crackers.  No matter the weather, these delicious crackers always shine and fulfill my cheese craving.

Summer birthdays can be tons of fun with so many outdoor options: swimming, hiking, and parks. But as the mom planning the party, we immediately see a challenge in packaging goodies to travel.  And as a mom who has hosted many “away” birthday parties and served tons of snacks outdoors, I can tell you that it’s all in the packaging.

When I plan what to serve, I choose an assortment of dishes I can prepare ahead of time to minimize my stress on the day of the event, and I top the menu off with an adorable centerpiece. I want to create something to rival in cuteness all those tiny booties and frilly burp cloths.

This Halloween snack has a delicate balance of sophistication and grossness making it perfect for your Kid's Halloween party!! Better be careful and mind your manners, because they’ll be watching you!!

Nothing says Happy Halloween better than a "killer" snack!

Not going to the game? You don't have to be at the stadium to tailgate like the pros! Invite your friends and neighbors, and then get in to the spirit of the game without leaving your driveway

Whether your family is getting together with friends to catch a pro football game, college matchup or even the local high school team, tailgate parties are a popular way to get into that game day spirit. Here are a few simple ways we make sure our tailgate parties are successful.

When my husband invites friends and family over for the Big Game, I throw myself into the food preparation. I know nothing about football and want to make sure I have plenty to talk about with the ladies. I'd much rather spend my time with my girlfriends in the kitchen, swapping recipes than trying one more time to understand the difference between a first down and a touchdown. I do pop my head out for commercials though, those I understand!

If you have a school graduate in your house and are planning to host a fun graduation party to celebrate the past year, here are a few ideas that will help make planning easy.

If you're celebrating a preschool or kindergarten birthday, these letter bags will be the perfect activity, as well as a take home treat!

Have you ever noticed once Labor Day is over, how fall arrives so quickly? The greens and blues of summer somehow fuse into the oranges, reds and yellows of autumn. But Halloween is one of those holidays that literally creeps up on you.

The good news is I have some quick Halloween ideas to help you throw a Halloween Bash that both kids and parents will love, without much fuss.

The weather is hot, school is over, kids are running through sprinklers and women are stressed about swimming suits — it must be summertime! Time to fire up the grill and party!

Need great party food recipes and ideas for your next party or family event? Check out our holiday and entertaining recipes and party ideas.