Patricia Heaton Is Back, and She Wants to Help You Throw a Stress-Free Party

Gina Pace
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Patricia Heaton on the set of her new show “Patricia Heaton Parties;” Photo: Food Network

Patricia Heaton has been in many American homes playing some of TV’s most iconic moms. Now it is time to come into hers.

The actress, who has played Debra Barone on “Everybody Loves Raymond” and Frankie Heck on “The Middle,” is showing fans how she entertains off-screen for friends and family in her new series “Patricia Heaton Parties.” The show focuses on entertaining without a lot of fuss, and will have ideas about planning, décor, and menu ideas.

Yahoo Food caught up with Heaton before the premiere of the first episode on Oct. 24, which will celebrate Halloween with dishes like Tombstone and Coffin Grilled Cheese and Smoky Tomato Soup.

Yahoo Food: How did the show come about?

Patricia Heaton: There are a lot of folks out there like me who are busy with family and work, but would like to find a way to entertain without too much pressure. This is the show for them!

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Who are some of the guests coming to the parties? Anyone viewers will recognize?

Some of my wonderful cast mates from “The Middle” will be along, and you’ll get to meet my family, too.

What kind of parties will be seeing this season?

We’ll be having a Halloween party, a football party, a ladies day, and an anniversary celebration, among others.

What kind of food will you be cooking?

Easy, fun, and delicious appetizers and light bites that everyone will love.

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How far ahead should people start planning for a party? Any sort of rough schedule you go by?

Planning and making ahead simplifies your schedule and gives you more time to enjoy your guests. It’s great to give yourself a couple of weeks, but if you have a last-minute urge and your friends are available, go for it!

What kind of party traps can people fall into? How do you prevent them?

People worry too much about getting fancy or having everything perfect. But if you invited people over, you’re already a success! Folks really appreciate it when you make the effort. Just think about how much you love it when all you have to do is show up at a friend’s house who has done all the work.

Now to some party etiquette: How you should invite people to parties now? Email? Facebook? Phone calls?

Keep it simple — Email!

What are some fun hostess gifts to bring? When are they expected?

Wine is classic but how about some gourmet salt or special balsamic vinegar? You can’t go wrong with a little luxury food item, beautiful flowers, or a small plant.

What are some fun Halloween party tips? Any good nuggets from the episode you can share?

The Heck family [from “The Middle”] aren’t usually terribly successful, but if you can be. Keep the kids busy with decorating cookies or cupcakes to give you time to give a finishing touch to their costumes.

MORE: 9 Creepy Halloween Treats You Can Make Yourself