One hour before guests arrive for a cocktail party, the hostess should be well-coiffed, putting the final touches on the table and mixing herself a much-deserved drink.

That’s never the way it happens at my house.

Over the years, I’ve dealt with everything from an ice shortage to a minor last-minute kitchen fire, and I’m always asking myself, “Why in the heck do I get myself into this?”

Because parties are fun, that’s why. And because over time, with experience, you get to be a lot better at anticipating the needs of the evening.

The winter holiday season is a popular time for cocktail parties, and if you have the cash, a catering company can help you pull off a stress-free event. But like many folks, I generally find myself throwing a do-it-yourself shindig on a limited budget.

While it requires more work, it is certainly not impossible. Following some general guidelines and making a checklist will go a long way toward ensuring a seamless soiree — after all, a stressed-out, frowning host or hostess does not a fun party make.

I talked to Roanoke caterer Amy Lanham of Lib & Amy Catering, then consulted the Web and my own memories of parties past to come up with these tips for wanna-be party throwers.

I hope it helps to make your holidays a little brighter and safer.

Click here to read the cocktail party tips. Do you have a great tip that I’ve forgotten to mention? Please share with the rest of us here on the blog!