I'm Kate Parker, the assistant home editor here at Real Simple, which means I do a little bit of everything under the sun, mostly focusing on decorating, organizing, cleaning, and entertaining. In addition to testing products, pitching and writing stories (like this one on Window Treatments), and helping to produce photo shoots (like this Playroom Makeover), I appear on early morning TV segments and at some of our incredibly fun events (like the upcoming Design on a Dime and Real Simple Weddings).

I've always loved a good party, whether it's an impromptu dinner with friends or a fully planned-out affair. The way I see it, there are plenty of things to celebrate, and part of the fun in life is finding the marvelous in the everyday. I believe entertaining can be affordable, enjoyable, and fuss-free.

I'm a busy girl in her mid 20s, living in a bustling city, and working at her (very demanding) dream job. While I'm certainly no expert at life, I am fortunate enough to have been raised by the most gifted chef/hostess/decorator on the planet (my humble opinion), and to work with some of the most inspiring and creative people around. Add that to the fact that I recently entered that phase in life when your calendar starts to fill up with weddings, baby showers, and milestone birthday bashes, and I'm bound to pick up a few good tips here and there. This blog is the perfect opportunity to share them with you.

My mission: to convince you to find something fabulous to celebrate as often as possible - and remember not to take entertaining too seriously!

(Photo by Maura McEvoy)