Great parties begin with a little party food planning and lots of great party recipes.

Without question, the most essential part of the party is the food. You need to know the quantity. You need to know what liquor to serve and the other party accessories and staples to provide. You even must take the guests into consideration before starting out with that recipe.

Indeed, it is not that easy to plan the food for the party. But just like anything else, all you must have is some guide to help you through.

Here are some tips that will prove helpful the next time you throw a party:

1. Remember the cardinal rule: for every person, you need a pound of food for snacks and one and a half pounds for the actual meal.

For the appetizers, prepare at least five for each guest. Use the one and a half pounds per guest rule for the dips and the fondue.

2. For the beverages, remember that the quantity of the cocktails or beers will vary depending on the number of guests.

Consider how long the party will be, how strong the beverages are, how rowdy the crowd is before you note the quantity.

Remember to equip your party with the following: liquor, mixers, ice, cocktail napkins and enough glasses so the guests won't have to stick with their dirty ones all the time.

3. Master recipe conversion.

This is basic stuff: a liter is equivalent to 4 and 1/4 cups, 3 teaspoons equate to a tablespoon and a pint means two cups.

4. Start as early as possible.

Plan six weeks before the actual date of the party. Know what type of party it is, the recipes needed and other purchases you need to make.

5. Buy non-perishable items first for practical reasons.

6. Invest in kitchen equipment and other food processors.

Get mixers, blenders, food processors and choppers. Guaranteed you will never have regrets once you buy these time-saving devices.

7. Rent glassware, cutlery, china and linen if needed.

Remember that in a party, it is not just about the food. You need to impress, so if you do not have china available, borrow from friends or rent.

8. Know what food your guests will like.

Be sensitive to your guests' needs and wants. It is important if you find out if any of them has food allergies.

Food party planning is half science, half art. It needs a lot of skills, precision, creativity and fun! Everything pays off when your guests have nothing but praises for your food and your party.