When you hear the word "entertaining," do you break out in a cold sweat? The thought of entertaining can be scary, but in reality it doesn't have to be. How you approach entertaining can make all the difference.

First of all, forget any ideas you may have that entertaining needs to be expensive and flashy.

The first rule of entertaining is to be yourself and entertain within your budget and abilities. Remember, you are supposed to have fun too! If you spend your time and energy worrying that you are not good enough and do not match up to others, you will feel your stress levels rise and spend far more than you can afford in a desire to impress.

The simple gesture of opening up your home and extending hospitality to friends, family and acquaintances is more appreciated than you will ever realise, and the more you do it, the easier it will become.

Here are some simple guidelines to bear in mind when entertaining:

- Keep it as simple as possible

- Use what you have available and are comfortable with. You don't need to buy a new dinner service, or crystal glasses!

- Keep to your budget. If this means a potluck party or a simple dessert party, then that is fine.

Lisa Hartwell is the creator and compiler of the Entertaining Tonight website and newsletter - the Simple Answer to All your Entertaining and Party Needs.