If your last party spawned several urban legends, this post isn’t for you. However, if the only gossip that surfaced after your last get-together is whether or not your “secret” chocolate chip cookie recipe really came from the back of the package—read on.

We all have a friend or two who was born knowing how to throw a fabulous party, but the rest of us mere mortals can always use a few tips. So whether your goal is a five-course dinner for 50 or a few neighbors for cocktails on the patio, the formula for a delightful affair is careful planning.

Start by asking “How much?” and “How many?” as these answers will put you on the right path. The “How much” refers to money. If your party funds allow you to rent a pleasure barge, so be it. But if you’re living within a budget like most of us be realistic right from the start. Often the answer to “How much?” determines how many. But the number of guests may also be dictated by your next questions “Where?” and “When?”

By now your plan is starting to look a little like a half-finished game of “Who done it?” You’ll have answers like, the entire kindergarten class; in the back yard; for a scavenger hunt. Or your five best girlfriends; in the family room; for a chocolate buffet. Or even, couples in your apartment building; for a progressive dinner party; each one serves a different course at their apartment.

Make sure your menu is in keeping with your venue. It’s hard to nibble on appetizers and casually chat when everyone is formally seated at the dining room table. On the other hand, if you don’t have table seating for everyone don’t serve a meal that requires 7 pieces of silverware.

When putting together the guest list keep in mind individual personalities. Friends that don’t enjoy cooking are probably not the best choices for a make-n-take pasta sauce party. And your boyfriend’s parents, although nice, might not be quite comfortable in a room full of twenty-somethings playing charades.

Decorations help get everyone in the mood. But they don’t have to be overwhelming to be effective. With parties, just like people, first impressions count. Begin with the outside or entryway and work your way in. And don’t forget the invites. Those can help set the mood before your guests even arrive.

All of us here at the Style File maintain that once you’ve got the basics down, the world is your oyster. You can plan a neighborhood bash in the backyard to celebrate the summer solstice or a cozy evening by the fireplace to observe the winter solstice. Invite a few coworkers over for a make-your-own-pizza night—cook the pizzas on the grill, offer a mix of specialty ales and relax on the deck. Or host a BYOC (Bring Your Own Cocktail) mixer for the couples in your condo building—everyone brings the ingredients to make their favorite cocktail—you’ll get to know your neighbors better and try some new drinks too). See, you really are limited only by your own imagination and creativity. That’s why we’re certain you’ll soon be the talk of the party circuit.