holiday party#

If you want to host a stress-free holiday party that everyone will remember—but without the overwhelming party prep you want to forget—you need a step-by-step party plan. With these tricks up your sleeve, hosting that extravagant party just got easier. Remember: Just because you're the host doesn't mean that you can't have some peace and enjoyment, too!

01 of 10

Make a Guest List#

Determine how many people you can comfortably host and make a list of who you'd like to invite. Then, make sure to send the invites at least a few weeks in advance to give your guests enough notice. This also buys you some time to prep your decorations and food—and confirm any dietary restrictions to accommodate all guests.

02 of 10

Delegate Responsibilities#

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Don’t hesitate to ask guests to bring a dish or ask someone to help with picking up some of the cocktail ingredients. Most people enjoy contributing—especially around the holidays—and it can help to take some of the pressure off you. While you don't have to make the party a potluck, contributions can certainly help alleviate some of the stress you may have to do it all yourself.

03 of 10

Stick to Easy, Impressive Food#

Cut down on time spent in the kitchen with a simple menu and some store-bought extras. Create a stress-free menu that features make-ahead recipes: a few savories and a sweet. Even better, consider a finger-food-only menu that requires no utensils and less cleanup.

Take a load off by picking up some delicious store-bought extras for your spread. Stock up on mixed olives, pickled vegetables, pistachios, and clementines to set out for guests to snack on before the main meal and between courses.

04 of 10

Keep the Kitchen Organized#

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Label each serving dish or platter with the menu items so you know where everything goes when it’s time to plate your foods (and so your guests know what they're eating in case of dietary restrictions).

You should also label any storage containers you use to pack up leftovers when the party is over (and date the labels) so that you'll later know what you have and how long it's been sitting there.

05 of 10

Step Away From the Cocktail Shaker#

Making each guest custom cocktails? Forget about it. Instead, concoct a crowd-pleasing cocktail or punch that guests can help themselves to. Mix up a big-batch recipe before the party starts, and then set out the pitcher or bowl on a bar cart along with a bucket of ice, cocktail napkins, glasses, and garnishes.

06 of 10

Manage the Mood#

It only takes a few easy decorations and a scented candle to set a holiday scene. Create a festive atmosphere by turning off bright overheads in favor of candles that give off a warm glow and cozy scent.

Infuse the party with holiday cheer without subjecting guests to back-to-back tracks of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Feliz Navidad." Guests will appreciate a blend of traditional holiday tunes with modern favorites, especially if your party is later in the holiday season.

07 of 10

Work Some Behind-the-Scenes Magic#

Guests may not notice these mood-boosting party tricks, but they could mean the difference between a hassle and a happy holiday party.

• Rent a coat rack. A rack designated solely for guests sure beats making them rummage through a mountain of outerwear piled on your bed. Available at many party-rental sites, rented coat racks often include hangers.
• Soak dirty dishes. Fill a large plastic bin with warm, soapy water and keep it in the kitchen. Toss in used dishes during the party to save time scrubbing later.
• Clear the air. Crack open a window to bring fresh, cool air into the room. Adjust as more guests arrive and the room heats up.

08 of 10

Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy#

Place cleaning items like trash bags, paper towels, wipes, and napkins nearby so you can quickly handle any spills or messes without stress. This way, you can also manage garbage throughout the duration of the party.

Periodically pick up paper or plastic plates, cups, napkins, and other disposable items, and toss them in the trash so you don't have to do everything at the end. You can even use napkins as festive decor, folded into fun shapes, when they're not soaking up spilled wine.

09 of 10

End the Party When It's Over#

Don't let guests extend the party longer than you intended. Be clear in your invitation about when the party ends so guests don't overstay their welcome. For example, if you say in advance that the party is from 6 pm to 10 pm, guests will know to start wrapping up before or at least around 10 pm.

If they don't, you can try to subtly signal that the party is over. Lower the music, blow out a couple of candles, and turn on some lights. If guests still don't get the hint, start cleaning up.

10 of 10

Try to Enjoy the Party in the Moment#

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Try to remember that you're having a party to enjoy it with your loved ones; quality time should be de-stressing not stressful. Things may not go exactly as planned. In fact, they probably won't. So, if you burn the cookies, or the caterer mixes up one of your orders, or some guests run late, take a deep breath. Stay flexible and embrace the time with your friends and family whatever the case.