(Editor’s note: Deborah Walker has written about food and recipes for 15 years, She resides in Ocean City.)

Entertaining can be very stressful; especially, if one does not have a lot of experience.
Success is determined by imagination, details, and personalization. And it is this style that flavors special occasions with distinction.
The bar is one of the most popular area’s and can be quite pricey to stock. A fortified punch is a way to cut costs and is quite delicious.
A few helpful tips for a tasty punch follow.
First and foremost, chill all wet ingredients. If you add warm liquids to the ice, you will end up with a dull, diluted punch.
Secondly, an ice mold is preferred over ice cubes. An ice mold is attractive and does not melt as fast as individual ice cubes.
While we are on the subject of libations, prepare a special beverage for non-alcoholic drinkers.
An elegant tea service on a tray adorned with a vintage napkin is a possibility. If lemon is part of your tea service, make sure you remove all seeds.
If you plan on having fresh flowers, consider adding fresh fruit or veggies to the arrangement. Not only are they gorgeous but they can be less expensive.
For example, majestic stalks of asparagus can complement the color of green in your arrangement. Fresh cranberries are a stunning replacement for clear marbles. Just make sure you change the water every day.
Fabulous entertaining does not mean you have to spend beyond your means. An amuse bouche is a great way to incorporate an expensive item at an affordable price. An amuse bouche is simply a one-bite appetizer.
Prepare as much as possible in advance. This includes setting the table, platters, and serving utensils in their desired location.
If you are going to have a sit-down dinner, actually sit in the seats where your guests will be sitting.
This gives you a first-hand view of what your guests will be seeing.
Buffets are popular for the simple fact that guests help themselves which always pleases the host. But buffets can get boring and are predictable.
If you want to spruce up your buffet, think in terms of height, color, and texture.
Height creates drama and is very eye catching. Place a few different pots on your buffet and drape a tablecloth over and in between them. Having all the dishes on the same level of your buffet table is anything but appetizing.
Our eyes naturally go to color. Infuse a rainbow of colors for a more exciting look. Try to avoid placing two dishes of the same color next to each other.
Lastly, textures are a whimsical way to add pizzazz to your buffet. Contrast is a sure way to keep guests coming back for seconds.
No matter what dish one is preparing, you must think of yourself as an artist.
The plate is a blank canvass. Main and supporting foods create a beautiful masterpiece that is not only pleasing to the eye but also awakens the taste buds to a symphony of flavors. Remember, the food on the plate establishes a dialogue, and you want your company to listen.
Not everyone is comfortable with making desserts. It is perfectly acceptable to purchase store bought desserts. Semi homemade and semi store bought is a wonderful combination.
If children are present at your celebration, consider candy cane ice cream sandwiches. Store bought cookies, ice cream, and crushed candy canes are the only ingredients you need for a fun, final course that is sure to be a hit with the kids.
The cookies need to be sturdy in order to support the dessert. The flavor is up to the individual cook.
The ice cream must have a hard freeze or it will start melting before you serve it to your little ones. Simply remove it from the carton, slice it, and use a cookie cutter to obtain an even shape.
If the group is extra hungry, forgo the cookie cutter and use an ice cream scoop. Choose a flavor that pairs well with the cookies and candy canes. When undecided, vanilla is a good option.
Place crushed candy canes on a plate and roll the sides of the ice cream sandwich in it. You may have to roll it a few times to get an even coating.
Doggie bags aren’t just for restaurants. I always send my guests home with a little bag that has a few treats and a recipe from one of the dishes that were served. It’s the little touches that mean so much.
In closing, be true to yourself when entertaining. It’s the love and special times that determine a memorable occasion. Enjoy!