Some people just seem born to entertain. The rest of us need a little guidance.

Susan Spungen is here to help with “What’s a Hostess to Do? 313 Ideas and Inspirations for Effortless Entertaining.”

Spungen is a former food editor at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and a culinary consultant and food stylist on the films “Julie & Julia,” “It’s Complicated” and “Eat, Pray, Love.” Her book takes readers through all the steps involved in throwing a successful party, from sending out the invitations to setting up a bar and gracefully breaking away from a conversation. The book even covers such post-party issues as using up leftovers and cleaning silver.

The book provide tips and ideas for a variety of types of parties — cocktail gatherings, sit-down dinners, holiday feasts and more. Recipes for 121 party foods are included.

“What’s a Hostess to Do?” is published by Artisan Books and sells for $17.95 in paperback.

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Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez