Having people over has never been easier--or more enjoyable. Authors Michele Adams and Gia Russo know there's nothing better than good food shared with good friends in the comfort of your own home. A festive environment and a relaxed host are the keys to a successful get-together, and At Home with Friends provides an innovative and affordable approach to accomplish that and more. Ten versatile party menus feature more than 60 simple and elegant recipes, all beautifully illustrated with nearly 100 full-color photographs. Each recipe comes with indispensable timesaving tips, do-ahead steps, and last-minute, store-bought substitutions for the time-pressed host. Every party features two separate checklists--the last-minute version for those with a day or less, and the more leisurely timeframe for hosts with two or more days to plan. From casual brunches and buffets to stylish dinner parties and cocktails, At Home with Friends has everything you need to make the most of any occasion.

Michele Adams is a partner of MiGi, a lifestyle creative consulting company for multimedia projects, product design, and special events. A former editor at Martha Stewart Living and currently based in Los Angeles, her work has appeared in numerous magazines, ad campaigns, and catalogs.

Gia Russo is a partner of MiGi, a lifestyle creative consulting company for multimedia projects, product design, and special events. A former editor at Martha Stewart Living and currently based in Los Angeles, her work has appeared in numerous magazines, ad campaigns, and catalogs.