Throwing big holiday bash can take little work

The very idea of throwing a party, let alone THE party of the year — a New Year's Eve party — can push even the most stalwart into panic mode.

Believe it or not, you can do this easily — have I ever let you down? All you need are some expert hints, helps and especially some great recipes that will make you look like Martha (pre-Camp Cupcake), when in fact you were out having your nails done an hour before party time. Now, that's a good thing!

So let's get started. First off, you need to make a list and check it twice. You knew I'd say that, didn't you? All good parties necessarily start with a guest list, and making sure it is well thought out and thorough is especially important. You don't want to peeve your boss or a colleague by accidentally excluding him or her from your soiree. Secondly, your New Year's Eve party is going to be an open house, so you're off the hook as far as protocol for a "real" party, requiring at least two weeks notice. You can even e-mail your invitations for this informal affair. And because you are ingeniously having an open house, no need to worry about those pesky RSVPs. Are you loving this so far?

Open houses are drop-in affairs that don't call for the big whop-dee-do that other parties require. However, you still have some decisions to make regarding the time and length. In my way of thinking, three hours is plenty. And make it between meals so people won't mistakenly think your hors d'oeurves are their open-mouthed dinner. Between 2 and 5 p.m. ought to do the trick.

Next, you will want to decide on your menu. That's the easy part — I've got it all right here: no fuss, no muss. Most of the ingredients and menu items can be bought at the warehouse store. The rest is so easy, you can even train your husband to do it. Instead of thinking of yourself as the cook, think of yourself as the Grand Poobah of Shopping Lists. Most everything you're going to buy and arrange — cool, huh? Just make sure you get your appointment with your manicurist set. That will be harder than doing this menu.

You should probably count on about an 80 percent show from your guest list. They will eat plenty — even without the mealtime timing, so make sure you have enough food! For each menu item, make sure you can restock each tray three to six times (depending on how many people you have invited, obviously). Keeping the buffet table stocked and sumptuous is the key to a great open house.

1. Assorted cheeses, nuts, crackers and fruit, olives, marinated artichoke hearts, mushrooms and the like