Here are some simple hostess helpers that will make planning your party a little easier.

Pillage the produce section at the nearest grocery store. Large bowls of fruit or vegetables always make a great centrepiece. Stick to one type per bowl for a simple, classic display. Overbuy. You can always eat them later.

Stock up on herbs like parsley, mint and rosemary. Use them as a garnish on plates or platters. They look pretty and smell good, too.

No clean napkins? Fold clean tea towels on oversized plates.

Get the most from your deli counter. Purchase precooked polenta that only needs a quick slicing before warming.

For maximum impact (and to make your life easier), choose a colour scheme, and pick up coordinating flowers, candles or other details for the dining area, entryway and even bathrooms.

Finish each setting with a linen napkin tied with regular kitchen twine and topped with a single flower stem.

Add layers of texture to the table and use china tea or espresso cups as serving dishes for olives or nuts.

Wrap simple glass votives in colourful paper to set the scene. Note: Use a long-stem lighter and be extra careful when you light them.

Colourful paper napkins are affordable, recyclable and will offset white or contrasting coloured dishes.

Skip the tablecloth and line up everyday placemats (or squares of construction paper) in sequence for graphic punch.

3 Décor Secrets:

• While you’re shopping for food, grab a tube of inexpensive wrapping paper (no pattern) that matches your colour scheme, and roll it out over your table. You’ll add a big splash of colour and save your tablecloth from potential messes.
• Close the doors to all rooms but the ones you’ll be using. Dim the lights and hide any evidence that you didn’t have time to clean. Use plenty of candles to create an intimate mood.
• Throw linens and placemats into the drier for 10 minutes. You’ll get rid of the wrinkles, create a freshly laundered feel and add a little warmth to the table.

Flower Power

• A bold hit of colour makes a huge impact. Stick to one type of flower in no more than three shades. Keep the arrangements low so you can see your guests across the table.
• Basic grocery-store flowers can easily be pulled apart (ditch the baby’s breath) and grouped by colour in smaller bunches. Get lots – they look and smell pretty, and you can use them throughout the house.