The holiday season is upon us! With it often comes hosting duties, which can feel overwhelming. If you’re nervous about hosting this year, don’t worry! We’re here to give you the scoop on how to impress your guests without too much effort or expense.

1. Make a Game Plan. It never hurts to be overprepared. Make a list (and check it twice!) to ensure you know what you need to do when—and dole out the duties to other loved ones if you can.
2. Finalize Your Guest List. No one wants to be taken by surprise and end up short on space! It’s always a good idea to confirm your headcount beforehand.
3. Cook and Grocery Shop Ahead of Time. Save yourself a headache and don’t wait to grocery shop on the big day. Similarly, by preparing as many foods in advance as you can, you’ll save yourself time and extra effort. Items such as ready-to-bake cookies or a main dish (think Shepard’s Pie or any casserole) are perfect to prep the night before, leave in the fridge, then throw in the oven when guests arrive.
4. Go with What You Know. If you have a delicious recipe or a cocktail that is a crowd-pleaser, go with that. There’s no need to put extra pressure on yourself to prepare a complicated recipe.
5. Set the Table Beforehand. Whether it’s the night before or the morning of, have the table set and ready to go so you’re not scrambling when guests arrive. It’s also a good idea to know how you’ll be serving the food—whether it’ll be buffet-style, family-style, or a formal, plated meal.
6. Ask for Help. Designate a loved one to oversee a specific duty, such as refilling drinks or snacks. You don’t have to do it all!
7. Enjoy the Moment. Don’t forget to be present and have some fun! If you forget an appetizer or something burns, no one will remember. If you’re having a good time, so will your guests. Put on some music in the background to help keep the atmosphere fun—try our 'What's Cookin' playlist while you're in the kitchen or turn on our 'Ultimate Dinner Party' playlist for a lively atmosphere.
8. Little Things Make a Difference. Whether it is fresh flowers, a seasonal scented candle, festive napkins, or a playlist of good tunes, these little touches stand out.