HOST Tip Plan ahead! Great parties don't just happen. They are the result of careful, detailed planning.

You want to entertain, but aren't sure where to begin? Great parties don't just happen by chance. They're the result of careful, detailed planning.

To help you plan and host an event that's stress-free and enjoyable for you and your guests, the LCBO has developed HOST, with all the ingredients for more successful and memorable entertaining. These hosting tips can help take some of the guesswork and headaches out of planning a great party.

We know you care about your friends, family and guests. We've designed HOST to help you keep everyone safe at your get-togethers, whether they're backyard barbecues, intimate dinners with friends, weddings or patio parties. Enjoy your party, knowing you've created a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere for you and your friends to have a good time.

HOST covers a range of topics, from how to properly stock your bar, to information on host liability and common myths about alcohol, as well as timesaving tips and recipes for non-alcoholic Mocktails. The best part is that you'll be able to re-use this selection of useful items over and over again.

And, if you can't find the answers you need here, the LCBO, as your Source for Entertaining Ideas, can assist you in many other ways. It's as easy as consulting one of our more than 130 Product Consultants located across the province. Ask your local store to put you in touch with the Product Consultant nearest you. You can then make an appointment with one of them for extra assistance in planning your next party. You can discuss the budget you'll be working with and may also want to bring along your menu in order to get specific suggestions for food and beverage matching.

Along with carefully planning your event and getting organized, we have some suggestions for you to reduce the risks of alcohol related problems when entertaining and help you ensure your guests arrive home safely. Click here for Responsible Hosting Tips. Take some time to review this information and use these handy tips to help plan your party. Enjoy!

For more information specific to your event, or for further advice on responsible hosting, speak to the staff at your local LCBO store, or call the LCBO's toll-free, bilingual Infoline at 1-800-ONT-LCBO (1-800-668-5226). In Toronto, call 416 365-5900.