Stock Up Your Pantry for Stress-Free Entertaining

MISSION, KS — (Marketwire) — 08/08/11 — (Family Features) Anytime is the perfect time to sit back, relax and enjoy friends and family at cookouts, poolside cocktail parties and carefree dinners at home. While planning and organizing an event can become daunting, entertaining is meant to be a relaxing experience that everyone can enjoy, even the host. HGTV star and lifestyle expert Rick Rifle has some tips to help make your next soire stress-free. These simple and festive pantry-to-party ideas are sure to create an unforgettable experience.

The secret to being party-ready is starting with a well-organized pantry. Pantry essentials are the foundation to making any last-minute party simple and relaxing. Almonds, for example, are the perfect pantry companion. They’re a versatile nut that provides a full sensory experience and can be utilized in numerous simple ways to turn up the sophistication in texture, taste and style.

Next time you’re planning a barbecue or having cocktails on the back patio turn to Rifle’s party-planning advice, inspiring decorating tips and easy entertaining ideas by putting your must-have pantry items to work making hosting any event a breeze.