What are some suggestions for entertaining in small spaces, for example, a tiny house whose dining room doubles as a home office? Barbara

Determine whether you want a sit down dinner, buffet or cocktail party and then be realistic about the size of your guest list. Summer entertaining gives you more flexibility because you can either stage your party outside or let it spill out in to the backyard.

Sit down dinners: Push furniture against the walls to create as much space as possible around your table. If you have room to expand the size of your table visit your local lumber yard and have a piece of plywood cut larger than the top of the table. Place it on top of your existing table (Be sure to place something between the table and plywood to avoid scratching.) and cover with a tablecloth. Think up versus out - instead of creating a place setting that spreads out build one that stacks. Select a tall, slender centerpiece that won’t block guests’ view and take up a lot of table space.

Buffet: For larger crowds opt for a buffet. To avoid a bottleneck set up stations around the house. Make it easy for your guests. Pre-butter rolls. Have silverware wrapped in oversized napkins. This serves a dual purpose. Guests have less to carry, and the oversized napkin provides a nice cover to rest their plate on. Select a combination of finger foods and dishes that don’t require a knife - one less thing to balance.

Food: Avoid multi-course meals and tend toward menus that can be made ahead of time. Select one-dish meals, pared with a fabulous salad and great dessert. Think soup buffets, chili, stews, salads etc. For summer take advantage of the grill.

Beverages: Keep it simple. Wine, beer, soda, sparkling water and a signature cocktail or drink for the evening, such as Mojitos. Sangria or Kir Royales. This avoids the need for mixers; extra bottles of liquor, bar utensils, which all take up space.

Last but not least: Stage coasters and extra cocktail napkins on tables, throw cushions on the floor for extra seating, fill a cooler with ice placed outside the back door, take time to clean as you go to avoid chaos in the kitchen and most of all enjoy the party! Small intimate spaces bring people close together, encouraging conversation and a warm, intimate atmosphere.

MemorableEntertaining.com