Hosting a dinner party is loads of fun, but planning and carrying off a successful evening can be a little stressful. Those feelings of stress can rock your ‘hostess with the most-ess’ confidence, and sometimes lead to chaos in the kitchen …

Don’t stress – here is a selection of dishes that are suitable to serve to all types of guests, from small fry to the in-laws, or even your partner’s boss! Check out these kid-friendly, sophisticated and casual meal plans.

One of the handy things about tea parties is that you can usually prepare all of the food in advance, leaving you only to worry about serving the tea and being a hostess with the mostess! Here’s a selection of 3 menu plans that work fabulously for afternoon tea parties (or morning tea for that matter!). Mix and match from these menus to create your own afternoon tea party menu that is perfect for you… and remember, there’s no point getting all worked up in the kitchen, you can buy so many beautiful bakery items these days, there’s no need to create everything form scratch yourself.

Do you have a signature cocktail? It’s always impressive when you’re out with friends to casually order a sexy-sounding cocktail with relative ease and style… Rather than devouring the often intimidating cocktail list next time you’re out and about, you can roll out a request for one of seductive sips below (complete with novice notes to ensure you get the right one)

Got a picnic to plan? You can make a picnic as fancy as you please, but if you want to keep things super simple, use our checklist below and enjoy the outdoors.

We've been on the hunt for the perfect banana bread recipe for some time and we think we've got it! Ideal for brunch with the girls, or even as a warm winter dessert. This recipe has come all the way from Botswana.

If you have a children's special occasion to attend and you're required to bring a plate, we have some great ideas to ensure your contribution is a hit on the day.

Here are some ways to entertain at home without breaking the budget or looking like a cheapskate:

Here are the answers to common cocktail food questions – from what type of canapés to serve, how to serve them, and the number of bites required to satisfy each guest’s hunger …

Whether you’ve decided to whip up a Christmas  in July feast yourself or you’ll be sharing the task with friends, here are some delicious Christmas in July menu plans and catering ideas that are guaranteed to spread some Christmas Cheer!

Calling all creative geniuses, this party is perfect for you! A make-it-your-own party allows guests to bring their creative flair into many aspects of the party from their attire for the day to the food they will be eating. The idea for a party like this is to encourage guests to create their own party.

Spring brings the start of food festivals across the country, like Crave Sydney, a celebration of food, outdoor, art and fun, incorporating the Sydney International Food Festival. This spring, plan to head to one of the many events, or set yourself an at-home culinary challenge – a three-course, formal sit-down dinner in the spirit of fine food!

Want more time to enjoy Christmas Day and less time slaving in the kitchen? Try this fantastic salad. Ingredients - 1 shoulder of lamb (approx 2.5 kg), 4 shallots halved but not peeled, 6 cloves garlic left whole, 1 carrot peeled and halved, sea salt, 500ml boiling water, small handful freshly chopped mint, 1 pomegranate.

Did anyone say nachos? How about inviting some families over this weekend for an early dinner with the children – and give the gathering a Mexican theme! It’s fun and suitable for all the family. Here’s an easy-peasy Mexican-inspired menu plan:

Barbeques are such a top Aussie way to cook and enjoy food and let’s face it, they’re the easiest way to get your man involved in the cooking! These days you can cook almost anything on the barbie from a delicious whole snapper wrapped in foil to gourmet vegetables.

Dinner Party Diva or Drama Queen? Here are 5 Dinner party mistakes you can avoid.

Do you love cocktails? They’re delicious and decadent when you’re out on the town, but having a cocktail evening at your place can be just as fun (and more affordable too). It’s a great idea for a birthday, girls’ night in, or engagement party. Here’s how to host:

Whether you’re the next Nigella Lawson, or have trouble serving up anything more sophisticated than spag bol, cooking classes can be a fun day or night out for everyone.

Here’s a decadent idea if you’re a sweet-tooth: host a party where the only food on offer is dessert! You can either invite everyone to arrive after they’ve had their dinner (say, 8pm), or have your gathering in the afternoon. Either way, your guests will be licking their lips with all the sweet treats on offer …

Who doesn’t love Italian food? It’s a real crowd pleaser. This is a great menu plan for novice chefs – the dishes aren’t complicated but still taste yummy!

There’s nothing like a good Indian takeaway on a Friday night, but what’s to stop you from creating your own Indian dining experience at home? These classic favourites will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Transport your dinner guests to the laid-back lifestyle of the Mediterranean – here’s a delicious selection of food to serve outdoors on a balmy evening. Chill the white wine and relax!

Asian food is always tasty and it’s often good for you, too, with its clean, fresh flavours. Treat your guests to a tastebud explosion with these Oriental-inspired dishes.

Turn your cupcakes from good to great with these cupcake accessories below. Using these products even the most simple cupcakes can look extraordinary! You can check out our full range of cupcake accessories including cupcake wrappers, little takeaway containers and cupcake decorations and stands by visiting My Party Store

Whether you're hosting a gaggle of toddlers or a gang of school kids, easy finger food always proves a popular party staple.

There’s something chic and cool about going retro, from fashion to furniture and even food! Here are some menu plans if you fancy hosting a retro dinner party – many of these recipes take inspiration from the ‘70s, so you could invite everyone to dress up in flares to fit in with the food theme! We’ve included a selection of retro entrees, mains and desserts to get your menu planning started:

Did someone say sangria? Spanish is a perfect dinner party theme, with stacks of options for tasty starters and yummy mains. From tapas to paella, you can create a crowd-pleasing feast with flavours that are way more exciting that barbequed steak and salad.

Having some pals over for a leisurely breakfast is a nice way to entertain in summer, especially before the heat sets in on really scorching days (by which time all you want to do is lie on the couch in air-conditioned comfort!).

Or so they tell us… the recipe below has been forwarded to us by a fabulous foodie friend. Known as “Scout’s Cupcakes”, in keeping with this week’s theme it would be cruel not to forward this sure fire wining recipe onto you. Enjoy! Perfect for tea time at home, baby showers or a hen’s afternoon tea party: