(Family Features) - The entertaining season is here, and whether you're supporting your favorite team, or hosting your friends and family, it's easy to get stressed out with all the planning and preparation. A great way to avoid the hosting blues is to add a little spice to your get-togethers. Don't fall into the habit of serving the same-old boring small-talk and appetizers - keep things fun and fresh by shaking things up. 

There's nothing wrong with go-to standards, but remember too much of anything can get old quick. Try these tips to "shake over" your party:

• An easy way to keep the conversation moving and exciting is to play a game. From a favorite board game to trivia contests or cards, there is a fun game for every party and crowd.  Have your friends and family team up and compete against each other.  Small prizes or gifts are a great way to acknowledge the winners and spice up the competition and entertainment.
  
  
• When considering your party menu, start with a few staples, like chips and dip, veggies, and cheese and crackers, and then spice it up a bit with something different.  You can even kick up your party menu a notch with something new like Shake 'n Bake Crispy Buffalo.  Cooking shouldn't be a chore when you're hosting friends and family, and Shake 'n Bake offers an easy snacking solution to jump start your party. 
  
  
• A great way to spice up your party is to always be on the lookout for new and exciting recipes. Try a new recipe each time you host. From appetizers to entrees, there are a lot of different ways to kick things up a notch. And when time is not on your side, look for recipes with short prep and 5 ingredients or less.

Need more ways to shake things up? Visit www.shakenbake.com to download discounts and find easy-to-prepare recipes that friends and family will love.