Impress with easy, breezy, end of summer party Rule No. 1 of hosting a party -- let yourself enjoy it. As obvious as this may seem, it's an easy thing to forget. If you're not careful, by the time you finish the planning, the cooking, the decorating, the greeting and the serving, your guests are leaving and you're exhausted. There is a better way; it requires just a little planning, not a lot of money and a willingness to pick your battles.