Entertaining tips Holiday entertaining doesn't need to be a hair-pulling, teeth-grinding experience every year. Before getting overwhelmed with to-do lists, grocery lists and guest lists, take a moment to relax and gather some tips to get you through this hectic time of year.For invaluable advice from real women, check out these entertaining tips to pull off an effortless-looking (and feeling) event:“From a decade of PR experience in the hospitality and lifestyle arenas, I know how far the little things go when planning a gathering. Most importantly, I focus on my guests. I choose a guest list with chemistry, give ample notice of the party and make sure there's enough seating for everyone, with room for more.Laura Serena, Vancouver, BC“Preparation, preparation, and preparation is a must. The more you can socialize with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen, the better for everyone. Fondues make an easy way to get people together, it's a great idea for the guests to pick what they want to eat (especially if some have allergies).Diane Belo, Brampton, ONPotlucks are always easy for entertaining, as the host pick a foreign country and make that the theme of the meal. Male sure one person is designated a course of the meal (appetizers, dessert etc.), and don't tell each other what you're bringing. We end up learning interesting facts about the country pertaining to the types of food normally prepared and why. This type of entertaining provides interesting topics of discussion as well -- tailor it for the holidays and you'll have a guaranteed hit. Jill Martin, Brampton, ONMake a detailed chronological list of things that need to be done up to a day or two in advance and stick to it. If possible, get someone else to do some of the work -- set-up, dishwashing, and clearing are all easy jobs to pay someone to do and it leaves you with plenty of time to spend with your guests.Caley Pestl, Scarborough, ON More entertaining tips My first tip would be to have cocktails or a bottle of wine ready to go when your guests arrive, so they are occupied when you are finishing up in the kitchen. However, everyone will usually gravitate to the kitchen, so put them to work with small last-minute tasks. And remember to relax. Everyone is there to have a good time and having the hostess stress out is no fun. Enjoy the company; the details will fall into place.Danielle Roy, Mississauga, ONWell Vancouver is all about being environmentally friendly, the way of life is very outdoorsy because there's so much nature surrounding us. I think a neat theme might be to create a garbageless party. That way there's very little mess left to clean up and it leaves you feeling like you've done your part for the environment.Alexis Tsobanos, Vancouver, BCMost of my anxiety prior to entertaining is brought on when I haven't finalized what to serve. I find planning the menu at least one week ahead of time eliminates some of the anxiety and helps me create the shopping list. Plus, I always keep the menu handy for reference and to ensure that I don't forget to serve any of it.Maria Lewis, Toronto, ONIn lieu of bringing a dish, ask a couple of attendees to come early and help setup up, and a couple to stay late and assist with any clean up. Don't forget to buy a very big garbage can with lid to avoid having to change garbage during your entertaining, and for little accidents keep the following items hands: Lysol quick wipes, Tide pens, paper towel, club soda, etc.Laura Franklin, Ajax, ONIf you live in a house, park your car(s) on the street so guests can park in the driveway, and have the number of a local taxi close at-hand in case a guest is in no shape to drive home.Judy Boyer, Scarborough, ONMix-up one special cocktail all night instead of just pulling out the wine and beer; make it in a pitcher and have some pre-made in the fridge. You'll find your guests will drink that more than anything else. Remember, you don't have to go overboard stocking a full bar, think outside the box and your guests will appreciate the thought and care that went into selecting the perfect cocktail for the evening.Jennifer Matthews, Toronto,ON From