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"Everyone is looking forward to holiday parties this time of the year. Since parties can be pricey, there are some tips that can help you save while still having a stylish soiree.

"A really fun way to throw a chic, cheap party is to have a baked potato bar. With a simple salad and dessert, it really is filling and always a crowd pleaser," said Chef Jamie Gwen.

Gwen also suggests fondue as an effortless way to feed a crowd. She says staying simple doesn't mean sacrificing sophistication.

"Jamie Gwen pulls a batch of perfectly brown Ginger Chocolate Chip Cookies, with crispy edges and chewy centers, from her new energy-efficient convection oven. And that's a result not always easy accomplished from a conventional oven – even in the hands of a professional chef.

Gwen, a local celebrity chef and cookbook author, cooks and bakes with new eco-friendly appliances since the recent $75,000 remodel of the kitchen in her Newport Beach home. "The ultimate goal was to create a kitchen that wouldn't have a negative impact on our fragile environment," she said.

"Last November, I road tripped to Des Moines for the big Iowa Food Fest. Along with eating some delicious grub, I had to pleasure to make some new chef pals. Jamie Gwen from HSN and DIY was there. She's a phenomenal chef with plenty of chops to boot. We spoke with her about all the hats she wears, how to eat well on a budget and her favorite spots in the OC.

AndrewZimmern.com: When it comes to the food and wine world, you’re a Jill of all trades. Chef, sommelier, writer, radio and television personality… How do you manage it all?