10 entertaining essentials

6 Fire logs
Burn baby burn. Keep fire logs on hand for instant fireside coziness. Presidents Choice Crackling Fire Logs are nice, and sound just like wood burning, plus they burn 5 times cleaner than hardwood. www.presidentschoice.ca

7 Great music
Load up your MP3 with a few playlists of great music for instant mood. You don’t want to be shuffling thru your iPod while your guests are waiting. Download some instrumental faves that allow you and your guests to chat easily during your visit.

8 Essential oils
Keep some scented essential oils and a diffuser (either the tea light burner or plug-in variety) nearby to freshen up any room instantly. Vancouver brand Escents, www.escentsaromatherapy.com has some fresh, modern blends.

9 Wine
Have your wine rack stocked with at least one or two bottles of red, and a couple of white varieties. Don’t worry about having a fully stocked bar, most everyone enjoys a glass of wine, especially when you are caught off guard with visitors. A nice, inexpensive sparkling wine is wise to keep in the fridge too – in case a celebration or toast is in order.

10 Handy phone numbers
Dinner’s ready. Set up your phone’s speed dial with a list of your fave restaurants that deliver. Indian, Thai, or sushi anyone?

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