‘What’s a hostess to do?’

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.