A professional caterer with nearly 20 years of experience offers a no-nonsense cookbook and entertaining guide that's packed with the kind of tricks and techniques that keep the pros in business. Budget planning, decorations, menu preparation, and more accompany 100-plus party-tested recipes.

During almost two decades of catering everything from the Academy Awards to a fete for Queen Elizabeth to an intimate dinner for Julia Child to a "Roller-Disco" Bat Mitzvah, Nicole Aloni has learned more than a few tricks-of-the-trade. And whether you're planning your umpteenth dinner for twelve, or you've only just figured out that there's a kitchen in your apartment, Secrets From a Caterer's Kitchen is the manual on entertaining.

This comprehensive, accessible and easy-to-use book offers insider tips and guidance about:

Menu preparation for both large and small gatherings

Finding special locations for events

Decorating advice for "theme" festivities

Creating invitations

Maintaining a budget

Over 125 tried-and-true party recipes

Whether it's a candlelight dinner, a kid's birthday party, or a holiday extravaganza, you can put on a show like a pro--and keep your guests guessing--with Secrets from a Caterer's Kitchen