<blockquote> <p>From one of Los Angeles's premier caterers and event planners, here is a beautifully photographed cookbook filled with more than 100 delectable recipes and brilliant party-planning tips</p> </blockquote> <p>Lulu Powers, vivacious chef to the stars, has catered parties for a cache of A-list celebrities. What her clients love most is her irrepressible spirit and ability to create elegant yet unpretentious gatherings that feature fabulous food and festive cocktails. <i>In Lulu Powers: Food to Flowers</i>, she dishes out her secrets to enjoyable and stress-free entertaining. From a holiday brunch to a retro party, from a classic Fourth of July celebration to a casual winter picnic, here are dozens of inspiring ways to gather with friends and loved ones.</p> <p>For these creative events, Lulu provides the perfect menu and lays out everything you'll need to host an unforgettable gathering?from sublime cocktails to making a memorable atmosphere with flowers, music, and budget-friendly dÉcor. Of course, the centerpiece of any Lulu Powers party is her delicious, expertly presented food, and the book reveals her best, most crowd-pleasing recipes, including:</p> <ul> <li>Mini Wild Mushroom Risotto Cakes</li> <li>Burger Bites with Lulu's Special Sauce</li> <li>Herb-Marinated Lamb Chops</li> <li>Mini Double-Stuffed New Potatoes </li> <li>Caramel-Fudge Brownies</li> <li>Butterscotch Pudding with Rum Sauce</li> </ul> <p>The recipes can be mixed and matched, and almost every dish can be prepared ahead of time, making party planning even easier.</p> <p>Lulu believes that everyone's capable of throwing a great party, and breaks down her inimitable style into simple elements, with hundreds of shortcuts and money-saving tips to ease the mind of even the novice host. She guides you through the party planning process, with loads of information about entertaining and hosting in a fun, relaxed manner. Armed with Lulu's recipes, tips, and party-giving secrets, you'll soon be throwing the best bashes on the block. </p>