Town & Country Elegant Entertaining

In this guide to graceful entertaining, Maroukian, a former chef and caterer, steers readers through the intricate details of formal, semiformal and informal dining. Depending on one's style, goals and resources, she recommends appropriate venues, staff and decorative arrangements; she also suggests cuisines to suit different parties. She draws on the expertise and experience of entertainers and partygoers, many of whom offer advice on how to best enjoy being a guest at a function. David Brown, producer of Jaws and Driving Miss Daisy, tells guests to""arrive late. Cocktail parties are so crowded, who will know? As far as the host is concerned, you've been there all evening."" Memphis hostess Jean Price recommends bringing a party to a close by passing around cookies and tarts. To her, this indicates to guests that""it's time to think about leaving."" Nearly every page of this inclusive and informative book is graced with a picture, either of an event in progress, a food platter close up, decorations and set-up, or of celebrities or movie scenes relevant to entertaining. This is an informative resource for serious party planners.