I'm throwing my first, real, actual cocktail party for the holidays and I'd like to impress the friends and fam with some interesting hors d'oeuvres. My co-hostess was raised on Lil' Smokies and Velveeta, so I'm pretty much on my own. I'm looking for simple ideas and recipes that aren't too expensive, but involve more thought than opening a box of Ritz!

Any suggestions on what to serve, and party-hosting in general? Also, tips on keeping cold things cold and hot things hot? Thanks!