Christmas and New Years are just around the corner and you know what this means – festive dinner parties and gatherings. The twinkling lights, the smell of Christmas (think pine trees, cinnamon, ginger bread), the Christmas songs and all gorgeous decorations just make December all the more special.

This is the time of year where I love to host a few cozy dinners for my family and close friends where we can spend some quality time together. However, I know having guests over can also lead to stress and exhaustion when there seems to be so much you have to prepare. So I am here to share some of my top tips for keeping your spirits up and making this a hassle-free Christmas.

1）Cook Smart and Prepare Dishes that You Can Make in Advanced

It is always a good idea to plan out what dishes you will make. I find it is often easier for me if I can make at least two to three dishes in advance, so all I have to do on the day of the party is to just heat them up. Dishes such as soups, stews and curries are a great example of these dishes. Baked pasta such as lasagna, are another good option because you can cook the sauce in advance, layer everything into a baking dish and put it in the oven to heat it up right before dinner.

2）If you like to make desserts, you can also do your baking in advance

What I mean by cooking smart is to make good use of your kitchen equipment. If you only have 2 stovetops, and you need to heat up one of the main courses, then don’t plan to be cooking another main course and side dish that require you to use the stove tops as well at the same time. You’ll definitely be running out of stovetops! Make good use of your oven, steamer and microwave to cook and heat things up.

3）Don’t Worry About Making Everything Yourself

There are no rules saying that the host has to make every single dish herself. Often times, I would make use of the precooked foods available in supermarkets and also buy gourmet cured meats at their deli counters. A big platter of cured hams, pates, olives and cheese with crackers is one of my go-to party snacks and my guests always love it. Sushi is also a favourite too!

And if you friends offer to bring dessert, let them. That’s one more item off your prep list!

4）Have Drinks and One to Two Snacks Ready When Guests Arrive

You don’t have to serve everything at once and have everything ready by the time your friends arrive. Just have plenty of drinks ready and one to two snacks on the table for them to nibble on. Then you can gradually bring out the rest.

It is always good to have plenty of water available, especially if you are serving alcohol. With salty snacks, rich food and alcohol, people get thirsty easily.

5）Set the Mood

The easiest thing to set the mood is of course with music. There are many free music apps that have a wide variety play lists available. Try putting on music that you don’t usually listen to. I also love to buy a few scented candles to make my home smell warm and cozy. Vanilla and cinnamon are always a good choice for this time of year.

Making Mulled Wine will also filled your home with Christmas aromas. And you can definitely warm your guests up with this delicious drink when they arrive.

And finally …

6）Enjoy Yourself!

This is what having a party is all about. So sit back, relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones during the holiday season. Don’t stress so much about making everything perfect. At the end of the day, I am sure no one will remember that you forgot to put carrots into your stew or burnt your bread. It is the funny moments and the great conversations that will make your night memorable.