Solutions in a Minute

Take 2 minutes to batten down the hatches

Next time to tackle a DIY project like assembling prefab furniture or building a shelving unit, try these tips: Use a piece of masking tape to keep track of all those tiny pieces (like screws, washers and bolts). They’ll stay neat and organizes instead of rolling all over the floor.

Take 5 minutes to cut out the junk

If you can’t resist loading up your grocery cart with potato chips and sugary treats, do what the folks at Weight Watchers do: swing by the nonperishable aisle first and stock up on paper towels and toilet paper. That way your cart has the appearance of being full, which makes it harder to “overbuy” food.

Take 10 minutes to open your eyes

Feel like your eyes get lost behind your glasses? According to the experts, you can make them pop by concentrating less on eye shadow color (especially if you wear colored frames) and more on mascara. Use black, not brown, start at the base of the lash and wiggle the brush as you move toward the tip. If you’re sporting tortoiseshell or horn-rimmed glasses, spend some extra time defining your brows-your eyes will sparkle.

Take 15 minutes to host a perfect party

You’re throwing a party and you’re starting to rethink that Hawaiian luau theme. Need a second opinion? Head over to foryourparty.com and check out the new live-chat feature, where you can ask a representative for advice on anything fro finding the best party favor to perfecting your theme or design.