Holiday parties, whether they are just family or for a large group of friends and family, are something you want to do up in a special way. There are the extra holiday decorations, the special food you usually make only once a year, and the warm glow of fun, anticipation and joy this season brings.

You want to be prepared when the guests arrive and not have to spend the whole night in the kitchen. Trying to get everything done a few minutes before the guests arrive leaves no time for you to get ready (I have been stuck with no shower and in work clothes as early guests started to arrive. I had to leave them alone as I got ready!) Planning ahead will take the stress off of you and let you relax and enjoy your guests.

Make a checklist of what you are going to need. Shop a few days before, and not on a week-end. Then pace yourself on what you can prepare ahead of time and what has to go into the oven a few hours before. Make the do-ahead items and refrigerate or even freeze them if you can. 

I would suggest you have a fountain or punch bowl that holds a basic non-alcohol punch. Another bowl could be used for an alcoholic drink - unless you are having a bar and serving cocktails.

Have the house decorated and all the serving platters and dishes out at least the day before. These things don’t require last minute placement. Plan to end all your meal preparations at least three hours before the guests are due to arrive so you have time to get yourself ready, attend to any last-minute things, and sit back and enjoy a relaxing few moments – perhaps with a glass of wine.