Just Your Style Shortcuts to entertaining with style this New Year's Eve Entertaining at home is on the rise. Where it was once trendy to go out to celebrate special occasions such as New Year's Eve, now 80 percent of women choose to take party planning into their own hands. The simple secret? Arm yourself with insider short cuts and easy tips so you can throw a memorable get-together that is both effortless and less expensive. Here are a few tips to turn a blasé bash into a party with a punch: + No more "menu mania." Although food is often a vital part of any party, you don't need to be a gourmet chef to apply for the position of hostess. Save time in the kitchen by taking advantage of the wide variety of prepared foods available. Dress up store-bought quickies with fresh herbs or dressings to faux a gourmet feel. If you splurge on one great dish, whether it is caviar, pâté or your own signature creation, the rest can be simple and no one will notice the short cuts you took - guaranteed! + Become your own bartender. Beverages and good food go hand in hand. Luckily, there are ways to make drink mixing a no-brainer for amateurs. For example, Rose's Cocktail Infusions help you achieve a fun party experience that is both hassle-free and enjoyable for all. With these martini mixers, simply mix equal parts of the mixers with vodka to create drinks that are easy on the hands, eyes and taste buds. Also be sure to stock your home bar with a few "cocktail complements" like cherries, lemons, limes, fruit slices, and sugar and salt for rimming glasses, all of which can add some quick kick to your cocktails. + Small touches have a big impact . A professional party planner always knows the key to a successful party is often in the details. Create a cohesive theme at your party by color-coordinating napkins, dishes, glasses and even drinks. Deck out tables in coordinating colors. Also make sure to play around with lighting, room fragrances and music to set the right mood. For instance, if you want to throw a fiesta, try using colorful paper lanterns, an exotic scent and a variety of Latin music to spice up the room. Tip: Mix up the party by using Rose's Cocktail Infusions to provide a vibrant color theme and tropical scent to your festive drinks. + Join the party. What's the point of entertaining if you're not in on the action? Take the time to socialize with your guests. If you're the type of person who usually becomes holed up in the kitchen all night, hire one or two "helping hands" who can help pass hors d'oeuvres, restock snacks, and clean up after guests. This frees you up to have fun! + Send guests home with something special . Treat your guests to a small parting gift. This can be something as simple as a wine charm so guests can keep track of their drinks at the next party you throw, or a handful of cute cookies wrapped in a theme-colored cellophane for those who "couldn't fit dessert." For more tips on creating an event to remember and drink recipes, visit www.mixuptheparty.com. Cocktail cheat sheet Sour Appletini 1 1/2 oz. Rose's Cocktail Infusions Sour Apple 1 1/2 oz. vodka 1 cup of ice Shake and strain into a martini glass Mango Island Spritzer Over Ice (non-alcoholic) 2 1/2 oz. Rose's Cocktail Infusions Mango Twist 2 1/2 oz. Schweppes Club Soda Shake and serve over 1/2 cup of ice.