Tiffani Faison Shares Her Essential Entertaining Tips

If you've been scouring for some great party-throwing advice, you should look no further than Top Chef alum Tiffani Faison.

The Sweet Cheeks Q owner and chef is sharing what she's learned from her own parties—just in time for Super Bowl Sunday, too.

"Throwing parties at home was always a great idea, in my head," she writes on Food52. "The intimacy! The elegance! The deliciousness! The procrastination!"

But while she admits there are some challenges, it's not a Herculean task. It just takes planning. One essential tip? Tiffani says that hosts should create a schedule for their party planning. "Do whatever works for you, but put it in your calendar, stick to it, and keep yourself on track," she shares.

She says it's important to have a theme for the fete. But don't make it appear that way. "It's a guide for editing your decor and your menu, not a children's birthday party; it should be elegant and not entirely obvious."

Her next piece of advice: Be aware of you budget. "Allocating expense in the right areas will allow the details to shine," she writes. "But set limits and use what you have in creative ways."

Though you're cooking and hosting at home, it's crucial to have a restaurateurs' mentality. "Cook almost everything the day before," she says. "Have chilled water in bottles on the table. Print a menu to place on the table. Light the room well and play great music."

She also notes hosts shouldn't be afraid to ask their guests for some help. "It doesn't all have to be you; allow your guests to share what they love and contribute to the evening," she advises.

Her best piece of advice? Have fun!

[Source: Food 52]