6 Tabletop must-haves
Square vases are essential for making last-minute centerpieces. Fill them with festive cranberries or holiday greenery and voila. Paper napkins come in all types of prints and patterns and look just as elegant as linen napkins. Stock up - you'll go through a ton of them. White plates are always good to have in a pinch. Restaurant supply stores sell a zillion types from square to round to ornate and chances are good that you'll get a deal if buying in bulk. Grab at least 10 and keep them packed up with the ornaments so that each season you'll discover them and use them at party time.
7 Stick to standards
Drinks that is. Create a signature drink to use throughout the holidays, providing that you aren't inviting the same people over each time. Offer a crantini and beer and wine. That way, you don't have to be stuck mixing drinks all night and playing bartender. Assign a friend bar duty so you can focus on other host-like things.
8 Repeat dinner
There are no rules that say you can't repeat meals, the only big thing to consider is making sure you don't have the same gang over to eat. Take the stress out of the holidays by cooking something you're good at and is delicious. By doing this, you won't spend an excessive amount of time in the kitchen and you'll be able to entertain your guests.
9 Clean out the closet
Thin out your closets of coats and boots that you aren't using so that you'll always have room for coats at your party. This will also save you from having your friends traipse through your bedroom to drop their coats in a pile on the bed.
10 Pace yourself
Whether hosting a party or going as a guest, it's easy with all of the entertaining excitement to have one too many. Plan ahead and take taxis to your parties or pre-order taxis for guests attending your own. Make sure to have an abundance of sparkling water at your parties so that people can re-hydrate between drinks. The last thing your guests or host needs is to think of you as is the ultimate smashed party girl.
11 Create a mood with music
The music you play can make or break a party. Depending on the type of party that you want to throw, music is a great tool. Start the night with something festive and mellow and morph the mood by stepping up the sound. Dancing is always a good way to get the party started, so create a play list with a wide range of favourites but make sure to wind it down so partiers will get the hint that the night is dying down.
12 Send thank-you notes
Forget about e-mail. Emily Post sent notes and so should you. Sending a hand written note is so appreciated and thoughtful. Buy a bulk of cards to keep on hand and write the way you speak, with humor and kindness. Let the host know what you loved about the party and keep it simple. There's no need to write a two-page letter, a simple statement will do and end the seasonal fete on the right note.
Read more in Food & Entertaining and Party Planner
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