For the host: bartenders' party advice

1. Stock up on plenty of ice. Never, ever run out. Ice is absolutely necessary for chilling wine and champagne, and for drinks on the rocks. Plan on a pound of ice per guest.

2. Have twice as many glasses on hand as the number of expected guests.

3. You'll need an assortment of glass styles to cover the type of drinks being served. These include wine and water glasses; straight-sided highball glasses for tall drinks; tumblers for spirits and juices; and martini glasses.

4. For a four-hour party at which you plan to serve only wine or champagne, you'll need one bottle for every two guests. Have a mix of white and red wines. California wines are perfect for L.A. crowds and easy on the budget.

5. For the basic bar, stock up on vodka, whiskey, wines, and beer. For a more complete bar you can add gin, tequila, rum, bourbon, vermouth, sherry and brandy.

6. Don't forget mixers, including orange juice, soda, tonic, ginger ale, cola, tomato juice, lemons, limes, horseradish, Tabasco and Worcestershire sauces.

7. If you anticipate your guests will be wine drinkers, you can prepare by uncorking a few bottles in advance -- saving time and allowing the wine to breathe a bit -- then replacing the corks.

8. Have coffee available for any guests requiring a little assistance at the end of the party. Keep the taxi phone number handy and offer to make the call for anyone you believe shouldn't be driving. Read about Bartending Solutions' commitment to responsible drinking.