Penny-wise, pound-brilliant party tips from Events Planner Brian William Armstrong of William Entertainment.

If there's one thing Hollywood has plenty of, it's top-notch Event Planners - who else to make sure those important movie premieres and black-tie fundraisers go smoothly? What sets Brian William Armstrong apart from most planners is his training. Armstrong not only knows how to round up the right chefs, servers, florists and bartenders for an event, he also understands how an event - be it a casual dinner party for eight or a formal affair for 800 - should "flow", the best way to greet people, the best way to seat people, and the importance of timing and setting a mood. That's because Armstrong's not just a professional event producer, he's also a formally trained butler, with an encyclopedic knowledge ranging from the proper attire for any occasion to where to place an oyster fork (to the right of the setting) and how to seat guests according to the rules of protocol. All of which left Armstrong, after years of personally looking after some of Hollywood's heaviest hitters in some of the city's most glamorous households, uniquely positioned when he branched off to focus exclusively on Hollywood's entertaining needs.

His extensive knowledge of traditional etiquette and good form as well as his experience living in modern-day Southern California enables him to produce events known for their grace as well as their groove.

"I still stick to the Butler Motto," he explains. "Enough is never enough; more than enough is enough," meaning that when it comes to entertaining, especially in tight-money times like these, it's better to think a bit more than spend a bit more. "It's better to do something simple flawlessly than to try and pull off something complicated that strains your resources and your patience," he observes. "No one has fun, least of all you. And it really is about having a good time." With that in mind, Armstrong shares with Restless readers his tips on how to put an unforgettable gathering together on a forgettable budget.

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Day
Think about the time you select for your event. If you're partying on pennies, you'll want to avoid lunch or dinner times as your guests will naturally expect a full meal. Instead pick times before or after a meal and develop a creative theme for your event such as a "The Naughty List Late Night Dessert Party". Your guests will be intrigued and understand that they shouldn't come starving.

Make a List and Check it Twice
When shopping for a party, flexibility is key. Before you buy, walk through your local discount, bulk and Mom & Pop stores and take note of good deals. Once you've been inspired by discounts, plan your décor and menu, write a list and stick to it. Don't be afraid of non-brand name items. Once it's out of the package and mixed with your other party goods, no one will ever know the difference.

It's All In the Wrapping
Have you ever watched a small child open a gift only to ignore the expensive toy in favor of the box that it came in? The same principle applies to party foods. Your eyes are just as important as your stomach when determining taste, so don't ignore your presentation style. Break out the wedding china or pick up pretty platters at thrift stores and garage sales. Non-brand liquor in beautiful glass decanters and take-out pizza cut into delicate squares can turn Common and Affordable into Elegant and Chic.

On Comet, On Cupid, On... Décor?
There's no need for expensive decorations to set a holiday mood. First rearrange furniture to allow your guests to converse and mingle. Then give your space a good scrubbing (note: make sure to do this after you move the furniture - you never know what surprises you may find under the couch). Dim the lights or replace fixtures with inexpensive colored bulbs. Sprinkle candles and tea lights throughout the house to create a romantic glow. Warm a pot mixed with water and vanilla or cinnamon to fill your home with the inviting scents of the holidays. Then turn on your favorite music mix and you have an instant party setting. If you want a bit more, focus on one "statement" centerpiece. You'll get more mileage out of one gorgeous arrangement of nutcrackers, vintage toys, or empty boxes exquisitely wrapped than a few decorations spread thinly throughout the house.

Ho-Ho-Hosting
Be an excellent host. This won't cost you anything but some preparation time. Pre-mix pitchers of drinks and prepare replacement platters of food. Set out extra silverware and glasses. Empty trashcans and stock the bathroom with easily accessible common items like extra toilet tissue and hand towels. This way you won't be distracted by little items or bogged down in the kitchen and can focus on socializing with your guests. Your guests will take their behavior cues from you so make sure to keep the drinks flowing, the conversation lively and enjoy yourself. You've earned it!