Scott Common Sense Community GIVEAWAY

I always leave a chocolate covered mint under each cloth napkin for an after dinner treat. Who wants to feel uncomfortable because you are concerned about your garlic breath?

save yourself a lot of money and be the hit of the party by making homemaid bailys and kaluha
both are easy and for the price of one bottle of either you can get a half gallon of each

Weeks in advance of the holidays I set an afternoon aside to make a few recipes of Banana Bread, Lemon Bread, Pumpkin Bread, and Cranberry Bread. Once they are cooled I wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil, and put them in the freezer. After Thanksgiving dinner (and after Christmas dinner, and also on New Year's Eve) I get out a few loaves of bread and put them on the counter to thaw overnight, and in the morning they are there for everyone to snack on and I don't have to worry about making breakfast for whoever stops by.

It is cheap, easy, and you can make it the night before.

1 stick butter
1 cup brown sugar
5 eggs
1 T vanilla
1 1/2 cups half and half
Loaf of french bread or fluffy white bread made from a break machine is amazing....(recipe at www.allrecipes.com)
Sliced Almonds-optional

Melt butter and sugar, over medium heat. Stir until sugar is not granular. Add nuts if you choose, put in the bottom of a 13x9x2 pan. Layer 1" thick slices of bread until the pan is covered. Whisk eggs, vanilla, and half and half. Pour over bread. Refrigerate over night.

Bake at 350 until the bread "puffs" 35-45 minutes.

As an extra special touch, use large cookie cutters to cut out the bread and serve!

Make sure to have vegetarian options for guests. I always have several side dishes and stuffing (without meat) for those that don't eat meat. Thoughtful hostess!
tvollowitz at aol dot com

If you are on a seriously tight budget, you don't have to nix being able to entertain guests.

1. Shop the dollar tree or similar stores for plates, spices, foil, etc.

2. Purchase your turkey during one of the wonderful sales. Some stores will advertise 40 cent turkey's with a purchase of $10-$25. The $10-$25 purchase can include pies, Cranberry sauce, Stuffing mix, etc. which most will also be on sale.

3. Have a cozy spot with a television for the men who enjoy football, lol.

4. Make it a potluck type event, ask your guests to each bring a dish, dessert, or drink!

ask for help. that's the biggest piece of advice i can offer. don't try to do everything yourself. others will want to join in and help create a festive holiday meal.

Freeze appetizers ahead of time so you can just pop them in the microwave or oven the day of the party!

My best holiday entertaining tip is to make all parts of the meal ahead of time and freeze until the day before. I also set the table the night beforehand.

Make sure you plan ahead and start cooking earlier. We usually freeze some dishes weeks before and foodsaver them.

Make a list and check it twice...seriously, when planning on entertaining, make of list of items to be done. Try to break up the list to a bit each day before and you'll be more relaxed and organized.

Clean up as you go rather than leaving it all until after your guests leave. Most of the time guests will pitch in and help in the clean up saving you time and energy.

I purchase decorative paper products(plates etc) with the Holiday theme foe EASY cleanup.

It doesn't hurt to ask if any guests have any food allergies- it'll save tons of time!

Get Your Guests Involved. I am not a baker or dessert maker so I have the guest that loves to do it make the desserts. The same goes with side dishes. If someone has a specialty let them bring it. And I never turn down cleanup help. It goes fast and leaves more time to socialize.

I write down a pre-week plan with everything that can be done the week leading up to your holiday party. Organiization really helps and have your family pitch in with what they like to prepare or decorate.

Don't be over-concerned about everything being perfect. Once your decorations, menu and guest list are set, remember that parties are meant to be happy occasions--even for the hostess!

Make sure you have a lot of napkins on hand just in case you run out of some on the table.

My best holiday entertaining tip is to get your food dishes at Costco. The food is yummy and you won't have to work as hard. Thanks for the giveaway!

If you're the one cooking, plan ahead and do everything you can do before the day arrives. Ask guests to make those special dishes they do well and can easily bring. Since you've planned and done much of the work ahead of time, you should be able to enjoy time spent with your guests. Also, don't forget the ice. (A little personal reminder, since we never seem to have enough.)

Instead of telling people to bring a side and letting everyone end up bringing mashed potatoes - write a menu up and then assign a certain side dish to each person. That way you're not overloading on carbs!

Especially during a heavy flu season, guests always appreciate rolled cloth napkins in the bathroom for drying their hands. They can throw them in a basket next to the sink and it's an easy small laundry load the next day!

I make all my pies at least a week ahead of time and freeze them. That way I don't have the mess or have to take the time to make them along with everything else. I just get them out of the freezer a few hours before I'm ready to cook them.

Order in. I am not joking. Not everybody is a domestic goddess, and for those of us who aren't, entertaining is very stressful. So I just order chinese food, pizza, and chicken, and everybody is covered and no stress for me!

always anticipate, do not prepare enough always prepare extra, for the unexpected and the uninvited

if you go out to eat, you can't be blamed for ANYTHING!!! Or...last year i had everyone bring something...then i didn't do all the cooking, and it was cheaper for everyone too...nice!! :)

I always serve lots of cookies and make a little take home plate for each guest with a cookie recipe enclosed.

If you have young kids.Have your mother or mother in law over to cook.Dont stress yourself out.They will be more than happy to help.

I make everything I can the night before. Thanks for the chance.
mogrill@comcast.net

When ever possible like Ie baking , goodie bags or even Kitchen prep do it a few days before so you are not leaving everything last min.

Do everything possible the night before, and assign tasks to each family member for the next morning. One person mixes, one person measures, someone else sets the table, etc.

Don't cook dishes for the full amount of time if they will need to be warmed up in the oven before serving! Especially for turkey or casseroles, this will keep it from getting dried out!

During holiday entertaining many people look for great centerpiece ideas. One centerpiece that always gets compliments and looks great everytime is the floating candles. They have varieties that look like flowers, but I prefer a single color arranged in a bowl. It adds to the mood, is safer than long tapers, and there's no arranging necessary. You can also add a few floating single-bloomed roses or sunflowers to the bowl!

make things the night before :)

Every year I make up little gift bags for the younger kids. I fill them with a little toy or something else representing a movie we will watch after dinner. So the whole time they are trying to figure it out, it keeps them happy and excited and out of everyone's hair.

I prepare as much as I can ahead of time so I can get out and socialize.

be organized and plan ahead for party endeavors
mverno@roadrunner.com

For my husband and I it will be our first thanksgiving meal provided by charity ( He's now on SSI and we only get $100 SNAP Food credit- a Thanksging meal, at home would cost as least $30 - we can't afford it). I've been to Church dinners before, so here's a few tips: Don't "go formal"- business attire is acceptable. DO NOT drink or eat anything until someone has asked for the blessing. Be polite, don't swear, above all, try to at least pretend you're having a good time, otherwise, you may draw more attention to yourself than you'll feel comfortable with. If you're offered leftovers (half a pie, whatever) accept graciously.

Holiday entertaining tip: Light cinnamon-scented candles or bake sugar cookies to make your house smell like Christmas.

Keep it simple. Have time for fun.

HAVE EVERYONE MAKE A DISH OR DESSERT AND BRING IT, ITS SO ENJOYABLE WHEN YOU DON'T HAVE TO DO ALL THE COOKING. WE ALL HELP CLEAN UP FROM THANKSGIVING WE LOVE TO SING CHRISTMAS SONGS WHILE WE DO DISHES AND CLEAN KITCHEN, THE SMELL OF PIES IN THE OVERN IS AMAZING.THE HOLIDAYS ARE HERE.

doing meals ahead of time--also like the wonderful smell of candles !

I put different Christmas related texts on a pretty piece of paper and put one on each person's plate at the big family dinner.

In our back yard we have a guava, an orange and an apply tree. They all
contribute generously to our Thanksgiving centerpiece. I pile the beautifully
colored fruits in a wooden bowl. After Thanksgiving dinner persistent
snackers find a healthful treat.

Thank you for the contest. Happy Thanksgiving.

One thing I keep on hand is a few slipper type socks or just a pair of stretchable indoor slippers because then the guest can come in and not get their snowy or we shoes all over plus if they have just stockings or sock on thier feet they might get cold.

My tip is to always expect someone to stay over after they feast so have sheets and pillows ready :)

One entertaining tip that keeps the kids busy and temporarily away from the already set table is to have them design place cards for everyone. One of my favorites, at Thanksgiving, is the handprint turkey. It's a wonderful reminder each year of how much they've grown.

Just make the Turkey and have all the guests bring a dish. That way you can concentrate on one thing and not get stressed. Most people like to make one dish to bring/share.

Make sure to have vegetarian options for guests. I always have several side dishes and stuffing (without meat) for those that don't eat meat.

My best piece of advice would have to be to have everyone pitch in to make the Thanksgiving dinner. That way, everyone gets to spend some quality time talking and enjoying the holiday AND it takes a lot of burden off of a lonely cook:)

You can save alot on decorating by buying the year before on clearence or sometimes right after Halloween. You can set a real lovely table for a lot less money...next year.

I always make mini cherry cheesecakes for my guests and they are a hit every time! And pumpkin cake cookies! Thanks for the great giveaway!

Always Elaborate the people who are coming--
and try to have a crazy fun person!
That way, you always have a backup plan for a fun time just being together.

Ask a few of your close friends or family to help you. Be it with decorating, food or clean up. And promise to return the favor and mean it.

Set the mood.Lighting & music can help make your party a success. ( and distract your guests from a little bit of dust or that 1 stain on your carpet that just won't go away)

Limit the amount of alcohol being served or make it BYOB.

Have more than 1 trash can at designated locations as well as a bin for recyclables.

Relax & enjoy yourself. It's your party:)

I'm not sure how "classy" this tip is, but it's my best. Make your holiday dinner a potluck dinner. Seriously, it saves so much time, and most people are going to bring something anyway.

Make sure to have something vegan/vegetarian friendly (and substantial, especially if it's only one dish!) just in case.

And don't bite off more than you can chew. Just enjoy getting the company without worrying if your model cornucopia is 100% accurate.

keep some cookies in the pantry in case someone drops by!

autumn398 @yahoo.com

Have everyone bring their favorite dish and make it a smorgasboard

I always make Keiflies for all my friends for the holidays, and serve them up whenever we get together.

Do as much before the party as possible,Cook ahead an freeze so you arent having to prepare food all day,gives you pleanty of time to do other things

To keep things warm, use crockpots or set casseroles on hot plates or electric skillets set to warm.

always have a couple of for anyone gifts wrapped up. with a blank tag.

save all your christmas stuff from the year before.. recipes, bages, everything!!

Take time to relax and enjoy the special moments - especially with kids!

Every year my aunt insists on putting a can of cranberry gelatin on a plate and cuts it into 5 slices. It looks so gross and nobody ever eats it but she still puts it out. It retains the shape of the can including the ridges. Skip it and replace it with something more visually appealing :)

Send out invitations to Christmas Party's right after Halloween. It is a busy time of year and people need to make plans early.
jennielee226atgmaildotcom

I try to do as much as possible ahead of time so that I can enjoy the holidays, too. I start my Christmas shopping right after Christmas for the next year. You can get great buys on seasonal items, gloves, scarves, etc.

Make all your side dishes and desserts the day before your party. That way on the party day you won't be so stressed.

A great appetizer for holiday parties:
Styrofoam cone(s)
Assorted Fruits, cut into 1" squares
Toothpicks
Colored Foil or Regular Tin Foil
Wrap foil around styrofoam cone, making sure no styrofoam is showing. Cut assorted fruits into 1" squares. Starting at the bottom of the cone, put a toothpick into a piece of fruit and
then poke it into the styrofoam cone. Do it in circles so it
looks like a Christmas tree. Guests love it!
Have a great day!

I have a whole recipe file of make ahead horderves and meals so I don't have to cook right before or during the party. Nothing worse then spending the whole party in the kitchen

I provide a choice to my guests when entertaining during the holidays. They can have alcoholic or non-alcoholic egg nog. Enter me please. Thanks.

When you have small children or babies, sometimes it really is easier to have holidays at your house. You have all their toys, their clothes, their beds and all things familiar. Holidays can be calmer this way, and you don't have to rush home with a screaming toddler in the back seat on roads full of drunk drivers. If you don't want to prepare a lot of food, ask everyone to bring something and help out.

I start making cookie dough a month ahead and freezing it. I make it into balls and when I need cookies all I have to do is thaw for about 30 minutes and bake.

Make a list and shop ahead for on sales items, use paper holiday plates.

Make sure you have extra toilet paper on hand and in a place that is easy to find. You don't want your guests to have to root around if they run out.

Use decorated sturdy paper plates for a quicker cleanup and make individual desserts like mini cheese cakes or eclairs.

enter me thanks

Here's one for kids of people visiting: I always keep the craft cabinet stocked with foamies for all seasons so whenever kids come over, there is always a craft top keep them busy and they have something to take with them when they leave.

I like to start well ahead and do a little bit each day so I'm not overwhelmed right before the event.

I spend several days for baking and prep work so everything comes together quickly and easily on Thanksgiving day.

Make s ahead of time and freeze them! On less thing to worry about during the month of December

Get everything done early and enjoy!

Encourage everyone to bring the recipes of whatever they've made, so you can have a recipe swag at the end.

I prepare as much as I can ahead of time so that I will be able to spend time with my guests and not always be cooking.

Do as much ahead of time preparation as possible. For example, I cut up the vegetables for the veggie tray as well as those for the stuffing and other dishes on Monday before Thanksgiving. I make fudge and any breads on Tuesday, and I make pies and cakes on Wednesday. I divide the cleaning up as well, so that it's all finished by Wednesday evening. I have so little to do by Thanksgiving, that I easily have the Turkey on the table by 1:00.

I hire one of my teenage nieces to help out. They take coats, keep the kitchen clean, and generally help things run smoothly.
smchester at gmail dot com

We buy our desserts during the holidays since both Thanksgiving and Christmas are big meals. The focus is on the main meal and less so on desserts.

I like to put on a variety of Christmas music (jazz, classical, pop) to put people in the holiday mood. The playlist along with decorating and cooking should be done at least a week in advance so you won't feel overwhelmed on the day of the party.

Don't make yourself a martyr and try to do it all. When people ask what they can bring...tell them. Likewise, if they offer to help, let them. No sense in you doing it all and not getting to enjoy yourself!

TIP: don't take on more than what you can handle! DELEGATE!

Get kids involved with helping to entertain by making simple recipes, decorating place cards, etc.

We always have a craft or other fun activity to keep the kids busy while we cook and visit!

I think the key is to have a lot of activities to do, especially if there are children involved. Games are a great idea. I think have a good portion size of food of all different varities is the key also so that all needs are met. Thanks for the giveaway.

Here's a TIP: Make finger foods when entertaining guests, it's easy and makes clean up afterward a snap! :)

Chose items that can be made ahead, keep it simple, so that you have time to enjoy your guests, and more importantly, they can enjoy a relaxed you!!!

Keep it simple, don't be afraid to use paperplates, plastic forks and spoons. You want to enjoy too, so don't take out all of the nice plates and forks that would have you in the kitchen cleaning and washing dishes all night.

Seek out recipes that can be prepared ahead and then cooked right before you serve.

Always keep some wine around. That way if things go south, you still have the wine

jason(at)allworldautomotive(dot)com

I always keep nice, festive paper and plastic ware for get-togethers. I'm already cooking and cleaning; it's nice to be able to throw away things at the end of the night instead of having an hour's worth of dishes to do!

One thing we like to do is find people's favorite music and make sure we have that ready to go.

I always try to have some cheese biscuits or other easy appetizers frozen and ready to go so I can pull them out when friends come by! I always want everyone to feel welcome and want to stay!

To entertain the children we set up board game tournaments. The board games are usually educational, Scrabble, Politics As Usual, Run For President, Trivial Pursuit, Monopoly ect. The child winning 3 out of five games is designated shcolar of the year. We inform the children which games they will compete in during the month of October. The tournament takes place during either the Thanksgiving or Christmas break.

enyl(at)inbox(dot)com

Make something simple to for the guests to serve themselves and keep it casual. :-)

I make my mashed potatoes and squash a day in advance. They keep well and just need a little time in the oven to warm up.
bebemiqui82(at)yahoo(dot)com

I buy a few packages of those disposable plastic containers so I can send everyone home with leftovers!

Holidays can be so stressful. Too much to do, and not enough time to do it.
Get EVERYONE in the household involved to help prepare. Even the smallest child can dust. Everyone can help decorate the tree and house.
Get husband to stir up the dough as you put the ingredients into the bowl for cookies. Put them in the fridge to firm up until you have time to bake a few sheets at a time.
Make use of store-bought snacking trays. I always found that what took the most time was prepping/cutting up/washing vegetables, cheeses, etc.
Fill your serving dishes (cold items) ahead of time, cover and put in fridge. Do EVERYTHING possible ahead of time for meals.
For Christmas gifts, wrap & tag as you purchase them. Don't leave it until the last minute when it is a huge chore. Husband can wrap too. They say they can't; but they can.
Have several boxes of candy on hand. They make good gifts if you need one at the last minute; and help fill out a platter of cookies.
Get some spiced apple cider, and simmer it on the stove before guests arrive. It's good to serve, and makes the house smell lovely.

Make as much as you can the day before. I like to make the pies ahead of time and when the day arrives I just reheat them in the oven and there's more time to have fun and relax!

I don't do much entertaining, but when I do, I shop with coupons, and at the dollar store to stretch out my money the best I can.

Since in our small family,I and our eldest daughter have a home to have family gatherings in. So we take turns having the Holidays. The rest of the family help out by bringing items for the Celebration. We share the joy and the work.

My tip is to use paper plates & bowls. Wipe them off and recycle afterward:)

mscoffee77(AT)juno(DOT)com

We love the annual Christmas Cookie Exchange.

Ask different guests to bring a dish of some sort to make it easier on you when making a big dinner. Also cook some of the food ahead of time like the day before so it's not so much all at once.

WE DO THE POT LUCK STYLE THANKSGIVING SO THE HOST FAMILY DOES NOT HAVE ALL THE BURDEN AND ALSO ENJOY THE HOLIDAY...AND THE KIDS DO KP

Remember that no matter how festive or somber an event, you still have a house full of biological beings. Be sure to keep your toiletries, kleenex and napkins stocked and easily accessible for when nature calls.

Do as much prep work as you can the day before to save time in the kitchen letting you visit with family and friends more

:) Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! :)

Do like a potluck, have everybody bring something so you don't need to make everything yourself.

My best tip is to make sure you stop and enjoy your own party. Just take a minute to step back and look around at your family and friends and be thankful that they could be with you for the holidays. It will put you in a good mindset and relax you.

My best Thanksgiving tip is to make as much as you can days ahead, and freeze.

It is a really good idea to have several areas for people to congregate. After lunch or dinner people like to unwind and do different things. Men might want to go watch football and kids want to play. It is a good idea to have a place for eveybody so they don't bother each other.

We always have family members bring a food dish to share. It makes cooking easier, if you don't have to prepare every food item yourself.

Lists and more Lists...I write down everything I need to do, buy, cook etc..This the only way I do not forget something..semtaylor(at)yahoo(dot)com

Use foil in cake pans so you have easy clean up after dinner and can enjoy your guests.....

My holiday entertaining tip is to reuse decorations and party favors from the previous years.

My tip is: ALWAYS have guests bring a dish that they love, that way you cannot go wrong!

Do as much as you can the day before like setting the table.

Decorate your tree with the family.

For me, the worst part of holiday entertaining is making sure my house is spotless before guests arrive. I'd rather concentrate on cooking and baking and decorating. So, what I do - and my tip is - hire someone to come in for four hours before the party, and let that person do the last minute cleaning and polishing.

Take advantage of the odd moment to do a little prep. For example, mixing dry ingredients for cookies takes little time, but sure helps when you have a great deal to do and little time to get it done.

My favorite thing to do is a gift exchange at family Christmas parties. Draw names, so each person is only responsible for one gift. That way, no one gets left out and no one goes broke trying to include everyone.

Be sure to allow time for you to visit with your guests. It's awkward when you stay in the kitchen all night.

I love a potluck as a way to throw an economical party, with lots of great food!

we bought an extra frig/freezer to help stock up for our parties

Stick with casseroles for holiday cooking - easier to make, serve and clean up.

I like to make several dishes ahead of time so I just have to re-heat that day! Thank you!

I personally don't entertain, but I make sure I always bring something for the host/hostess who does.

Thanks for the giveaway >^..^<

My best holiday tip is not to overextend myself. It is all to easy to say "yes" to every request to participate in holiday activities, and even easier to get exhausted and end up not enjoying the holidays at all. When I'm tired and not enjoying myself--well, I'm not a joy for others to be around, either. So I have learned that sometimes saying "no" (tactfully) is the best thing I can do for me and others, too! Thanks for the chance to win!!

My best tip is to prep ahead of time. Cut and wash your veggies, prep your meat. Make and freeze whatever you can days in advance. Cooking shouldn't take you away from all your guests.

Do as much as possible ahead of time. Cook and freeze food as appropriate and make sure you've shopped early for everything you'll need on the day. There's nothing worse than needing to run out and pick something up when you're trying to get ready for guests.

Go to someone else's party! That REALLY takes the stress away from the Holidays :)

i like to make christmas cookies for gifts.my favorite is peanut butter balls

I have a thankful box and everyone puts what they are thankful for on small slips of paper. Then before we eat we bring them out and read them and try to figure out who wrote what. It's fun!

We make homemade dog bones for our dogs and our friends dogs. The kids get a kick out of doing it and our friends are thrilled too.

make sure you are open to vegetarian foods b/c people like that stuff

Keep it simple by making ahead. Lasagna can be made weeks in advance and frozen. It's always a crowd pleaser.

Be sure your home is safe for little ones who may be visiting. Keep any dangerous chemical products, medicines, electrical cords, out of reach. Keep venetian blind cords away from temporary cribs, etc. Everyone gets very busy, and sometimes toddlers go exploring on their own...

Clean house thoroughly the week before then you only have to straighten up before guests arrive

I always make lists. You have to start with a list in order to organize everything for holiday entertaining. Then I get with my sister and we plan everything out as early as possible. We usually start planning for Thanksgiving and Christmas at the end of October. Get your recipes out, check your cabinets to see what needs to be bought and buy a little at a time each week so you don't have to buy everything at once and make your budget even tighter.

Pick up a little bit each time you shop and watch carefully for sales. Get up a bit early on the big day and take the time to pamper yourself in the shower.

When it comes to appetizers, keep it simple. Don't overlead guests on elaborate pre-dinner foods. A simple cheese and fruit platter and a few nuts will be enough to keep them from being too hungry but not enough to ruin their dinner!!

Don't be afraid to use disposable servingware for the holidays! While it might not look as fancy as nice China, cute holiday patterns look festive and make cleanup so much easier!

Fill your slowcooker with apple cider, cinnamon and cloves, for a handy supply of hot mulled cider.

Freeze cookies, then you can just pull them out when you need them!

Make it a pot luck so everyone participates.

stock up on sales before hand

I always plan on a good number of different types of appetizers and muchies. It seems as though something always ends up delaying our meal, whether it be a guest calling to say they are running late, or a mishap in the kitchen. As long as everyone has something to nibble on in the meantime, all is well.

We like to shop at Warehouse stores like Sams Club and at dollar stores for things like plates and napkins.

To keep kids entertained, cover the kids' table with a large sheet of white paper and set out a cup of crayons

I cook and bake food and treats in advance so I can pull them out of the freezer when they are needed. Thanks for the contest!

I make a budget for Christmas shopping and do not allow myself to stray from it!

Always have some sort of activity for the kids. I always print out coloring sheets and put them on the table with crayons like restaurants do.

Always make sure you have enough ice! Thanks for hosting this great giveaway.

Have lots of cheese and crackers on hand.

I always have the best green bean casserole. My (not so secret) secret...cream of celery NOT cream of mushroom. I find the cream of mushroom provides a less pleasant texture than the celery. Also, a little bit of soy sauce. =)

The holidays are about togetherness, so let everyone know you're having a low-key get-together and don't stress about the details. Enjoy the time spent together!

With all the holiday obligations, sometimes it's hard to get everyone together for dinner not to mention expensive! Consider hosting a family brunch instead. Brunch is casual, low key and many of the main foods are budget friendly. This also leaves schedules open for the other get togethers everyone wants to attend without forcing them to pick and choose.

The night before any social gathering, I lay out photo albums on the coffee table and set up a kids play area with crayons, coloring books, etc. This keeps the kids and the parents out from under my feet so I'm not distracted in the kitchen

My holiday entertaining tip is...if someone offers to help...LET THEM...

Ask your guests if they are allergic to any foods or just don't eat certain foods.

My holiday tip is to do as many dishes ahead of time as possible so that you are not stuck in the kitchen while your guests are in another room waiting. I have found there are many dishes I can make before hand and either freeze or refrigerate and heat when meal time comes around.

A great tip for holiday entertaining would be to put on a lamp shade as a hat. Guests will love it!!

I decorate the bathroom with the "preety" handtowels and light good smelling apple cinnamon candles!

My best tip is to take it easy and don't make all the food yourself!! Seriously Costco has what you need at a decent price and it's as good as or better than what you can make yourself with a lot less effort lol!! I always buy my pumpkin pie there, it's huge, it's delicious, and it's cheap!! Try some mostly made or completely prepared food this holiday so you can actually enjoy it!

My holiday tip is a recipe from our Florida winters: frozen hot chocolate! Blend ice, hot cocoa mix, milk, and chocolate syrup. Top with whipped cream, sip and enjoy!

Prepare as much as possible ahead of time so that you can enjoy the party with your guests.

Hire a caterer. :)

My tip is to have plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and to make sure no one drinks and drives!

prepare some dishes the evening before and ask for ppl to bring something

My best tip- Don't be affraid to ask guests to all bring a dish. It lightens the load and saves time, money and stress.

Keep it simple, the most basic food can be the best!

My tip is to do ask much cooking as possible before guests arrive, then you can actually enjoy your time together!

Paper plates all the way! It's so worth it not being stuck doing dishes all night. Also, have everyone bring a side dish to share.

Instead of candles we use plugins or potpourri to keep rooms smelling fresh when entertaining during the holidays. While candles do make the house smell lovely they tend to leave guests more on guard as well as the host because they can easily be knocked over during festivities!

My tip is to not stress so much about what your house looks like to guests, we all understand that you lead a busy life!

Little details are what counts. You can buy alot of food already made but add in a few home made items like baked tortilla chips and crackers shaped with cookie cutters. it is cheap and easy and people think they are fabulous.

Don't spend so much time in the kitchen. Make a lot of drinks and finger foods and spend the bulk of time with guests having fun

I like to have little favors of mixed nuts at the table, that way if anybody is really hungry they can have a bit of a snack while they wait for dinner to be served, and if not they can take it home!

I like to prepare as many of the dishes as I can ahead of time. This was I have more time to visit instead of spending the entire time in the kitchen getting the food ready.

Best tip for the Holidays: RELAX!!!! It's not nearly as stressful as some people make it out to be. The turkey is not going to be perfect, the kids won't always behave, and it probably won't be the perfect present.

The most important thing is spending quality time with friends and family. It's not about the spread on the table, the gifts under the tree, or remembering the words to all the carols.

Just take time to absorb the love and happiness that surround you during these days and carry those into the new year :0)

Thanks so much for the giveaway!!!

Easiest hors d'oeuvres ever:
1 bottle of chili sauce
1 can cranberry sauce
1 bag frozen meatballs
Mix chili and cranberry sauces in saucepan on medium heat; add meatballs and heat through 15-30 minutes. Put in chafing dish, stick with decorative toothpicks for easy handling. Leftovers make great snacks and sandwiches. Try it - you will love it.
This is a superfine giveaway. Thanks!

The biggest tip is try to do as much of the cooking for the holidays the day before so you can enjoy the party and be with friends and family as opposed to in the kitchen, thanks for the chance!

The scents of a holiday are important but often neglected by hostesses other than some artificial scents from plastic devices. Bring real fragrance into your home for your guests. Boil a pot of water with cinnamon and nutmeg in it before the guests arrive. Decorate with real evergreens. It sets a mood immediately.

Do as much as you can ahead of time so you can relax and spend time with your guest. Something things can be made up to a week in advanced and frozen. Have a potluck to make it more pleasurable for you and your guests.

the holidays can be really busy, not to mention expensive. we often do potlucks where everyone brings a different dish. that helps to share costs and prep time and provides a nice variety, as well as conversation topics. thanks

Always freeze the leftover turkey meat for sandwiches later; it makes lots of great meals later.

Make sure everything is done the night before so all you have to do is warm it up.

I enjoy buying "special gift" for each child that will be at Thankgsving dinner at my house. Nothing expensive but geared toward the child's age etc.

The night before the big meal have the table all ready set.

Always keep extra food and drinks- just incase people stay longer or more then expected show.

I always have a variety of foods available for guests with different dietary restrictions or tastes. My one and only goal when planning a holiday get together is for the guests to feel comfortable and have a great time. Putting a little more work into the meal and appetizers is worth the effort to make everyone feel welcome and happy.

A holiday entertaining tip I have is to have activities for the kids to do, as well as the adults! Give the kids coloring gifts, and have a fun Charades game planned for adults!

I make a version of mimosas with prosecco and fresh squeezed tangerine juice.

Prepare ahead of time whatever you can (pies, some chopping etc.), ask for help and delegate tasks. Also, we have our meal later in the day - no need for mom to wake up way before dawn and again, everyone can pitch in.

I always make as many things as possible the day before. This way all you have to do is heat or just take out of the fridge.

I printed a Thanksgiving schedule from Martha Stewart that give a 2-week countdown. It makes it really easy to remember things, like getting out the serving pieces and defrosting the turkey. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Always keep extra toiler paper in the house. It'd be embarrasing to have to make a TP run!

don't sneeze on the turkey

Make sure that you have enough things for the children to do that are non-destructive and preferrably quite. Outside if possible. This will keep the parents and adults at ease without munchkins running around screaming for hours.

tip- buy in bulk and freeze extras!
Another tip- keep kids occupied with games or activities :)

holiday entertaining tip:
spray plastic fruits with silver/gold paint and place in bowl for easy, festive centerpiece!

I do a lot of baking in advance. Then I always have something yummy to pull out of the freezer. Thanks for this offer.

Cook all the meats to be served the day before. The seasoning will have cured and it will be that much more scrumptious!!!

I make sure to have lots of healthy snacky foods so that my guests don't feel bad about snacking!

I always set up a table for the kiddos to have their own finger foods during parties and family gatherings.

Gift exchange games always spice things up!

My favorite entertaining tip is to have disposable plates available so we don't have as much clean up & can enjoy socializing after dinner.

The majority of your food should be things that you can make far ahead of time and freeze until the day of. This saves SO mcuh time!

I try to cook as many things as I can the day before to help split the work.

We have a new baby girl 10 weeks old and will be starting two new holiday traditions this year. We purchased my daughter her first Christmas Book (this year a beautiful picture book), that we plan to give her on Thanksgiving day to start the holiday season. We plan to make them more complex every year and continue even in her adulthood. We are buying only from used book stores. We also brought a holiday journal,( a simple inexpensive, pretty book) and plan to paint her feet with the family on n Thanksgiving and do foot prints to start it, and every year plan to write comments and her letters to Santa, so she can look back on them years later.

My entertaining tip for the holiday is to keep the kids occupied. Whether it's with food, TV, video games or whatever, adults can only enjoy themselves and catch up with each other if kids aren't nagging them every second. Don't get me wrong, I love them to death, but they don't want to be bored at parties and we don't want them bored either!
Cassie
cjm92995@yahoo.com

Make your own holiday gifts.

if you're in the party scene.. drink before you get into the club!@

carolynewin@yahoo.com

Everyone brings a dish, particularly desserts and apps. That just leaves the main course for me, which isn't too difficult :)

A Thanksgiving meal can either be a really hard meal to prepare or an easy one. When time is tight: put a turkey breast in the crock pot, use a stuffing mix, open a can of cranberry sauce and buy a frozen pumpkin pie etc. An easy Thanksgiving meal is doable! Thanks! senekers@comcast.net

Always try to remember to ENJOY the holidays.. Don't spend all your time in the kitchen...

To make the space more open and encourage people to mingle, I like to remove furniture from the room where I will be entertaining. It gets people talking and having a good time more than if they are just sitting in one place.

Always buy extra supplies, such as napkins, and prepare extra food, like party food or cookies. The holidays can bring unexpected visitors.

Keep the focus on the people and the love, NOT on the details that no one will remember!

Make lots so you have left overs. Nothing better then left over holiday dinner.

Each person in the family pick one dish that is special to them bring to our family dinner. This way the majority of work and expense isn't on the host and everyone get to share a special dish with the family.
lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

Always have extra drinks on hand. Whether it's soda or alcohol---stock up!

I try to put together small gift boxes filled with travel size items (i/e toothpaste,,breath mints,,mouthwash,,,etc.) so that any visitor to my home leaves with a small gift from me!

You always have so much to do hosting a party, give yourself a treat and hire someone to give your place a good cleaning before the party that way all you have to do is a light touch up and you can spend time fixing up goodies and not stress out so much

Try to prepare as many things a couple of days before, this makes things a lot easier :)

We have a full spread, enough for everyone but encourage everyone to bring a dish that they like and would like to share with others. GIves more variety and you know there's at least one thing there that person will like. :D For those those that don't mind sharing, we like them to bring the recipe along too so if others like it they can make it themselves.

Thank you!!

having a potluck is much easier than a standard dinner party, a lot less work

I out festive tableclothes over boxes and clutter in my home so it is unseen

Make sure you have lots of different groups of people...but so that each person knows at least one other person besides you. This way people will still mingle, but also feel more comfortable having a friend already there.

prepare things in advance ty

We always have a cookie-baking party after Thanksgiving. Everyone invited brings one cookie recipe-they are baked, and everyone gets a batch of every kind of cookie made. Thanks!

Start cooking early and don't let rude family members get to you, show they you can have a good time despite their attempts to ruin all the fun.

When seating, always put youngsters beside their parents and seat couples together. If you're having a large dinner party with people who don't know each other, seat people next to other people who might share some common interests.
iheartsweeping@aol.com

Make sure you are the hostess with the mostest. Offer your guests plenty of drinks and snacks. Did i mention drinks ? This helps everyone to be in a HAPPY holiday mood! Thankyou :)

My tip is simple, but effective: Do all that you can the night before so that you're not stressed out on the day of the party/gathering. That leaves you with time to get yourself ready, and time to visit when your guests arrive.

My entertaining tip: make whatever you can ahead of time!! Saves so much time on the day of the party, or dinner, or whatever! And, many dips or other dishes actually taste better the longer the flavors have a chance to marinate!

Thanks for the chance!

Don't feel like you have to make an elaborate dinner for guests you are entertaining over the holidays. The purpose of the gathering is to get together with friends and family. Make a few simple dishes or even just make some easy appetizers, and everyone will be happy.

When my family gets together over the holidays, there's a ton of food. My tip is to have plenty of disposable or re-usable containers, resealable bags, foil, and plastic wrap on hand to divvy up the leftovers and make cleaning up fast and easy.

Try to prepare as much food as possible ahead of time.

Have a children's table, of course, and set up their plates before anyone else so they are all taken care of and happy!

My tip, take the help if it's offered, and try not to stress out! Make things easy, plan ahead and get things ready the night before.

Here's what I like to do, to keep the stress level to a minimum...don't "overdo" it. Instead of having 20 different snacks/appetizers, make ones that will wow your guests and make a significant quantity of those select few. Every so often, do a quick run-through and clear up any trash and put whatever you can into the dishwasher. Don't wait til the end...you'll be overwhelmed!

we bake in advance and freeze!Also my best tip relax and have a good time

ardelong2(at)gmail(dot)com

Turn the heat down in your house when you have lots of guests over. People are dressed in warm clothes because of the cold weather, and it gets hot with lots of people all inside together.

The most successful holiday entertaining I have ever done has been buffet style. Make separate trays of each type of food ahead of time and put one tray at a time on the buffet table. The food is always fresh and appealing and a smaller container of food to be heated can be done much quicker than a big container. Take advantage of slow cookers in the kitchen to be heating food and/or use dishes that come with heating trays.

When entertaining try to do as much prep before the guests arrive so you can spend time with your guests instead of the kitchen

Make sure you have enough seating available!

If a person asks if they can bring a dish I say sure, that way there will be less cooking for me to do. I make food that doesn't take a lot of time to prepare.

I like to buy those disposable containers and keep them on hand for guests who want to take home leftovers. No worries about getting them back since they are disposable!

madamerkf at aol dot com

Get on peoples calendars early before they make too many plans

Make sure u plan ahead to avoid lines and CRANKY people!

Have everyone bring a dish. It makes it so much easier on you and you should end up with a wide variety of foods. thank you!

PREPARATION and ORGANIZATION are the two key ingredients in hosting a successful holiday dining experience!

First, make sure the menu, guest list and holiday decorations are all in order at least a few days before your dinner party!

Secondly, don't be afraid to ask for help! Ask guests to bring their favorite holiday dishes and let the children get involved by helping to set the dinner table and/or baking their favorite holiday desserts (My children and I have a blast each year making holiday-themed cookies together)!

And lastly, remember - that neither of us are Martha Stewart, so if everything isn't 'perfect', try not to 'stress-out'! Have yourself a tall glass of eggnog and enjoy the gathering of friends and family!

I like to clip bits of evergreen, gather some pinecones, and use other items from nature to decorate the table. Doesn't cost a thing when you combine with some leftover ribbon and a vase.

It sounds simple, but I cook or prepare foods ahead of time that can be frozen or refrigerated and then served later. This gives me time to not be so frazzled when it's party time and to enjoy myself and my guests more!

Do as much as you can the day before and clean up as you go. jelly15301@gmail.com

I make everything I can in advance so I can visit as much as possible on the holiday!

My best holiday entertaining tip is you should be pleasant, so you get invited places and don't have to do the entertaining yourself :-)

Thanks for the giveaway!

Make what ever you can the day before if you have a teenager try to encourage them to help to learn, also shop for decorations at the dollar tree and goodwill you can find some great stuff my goodwill has last years target line new for about 75% of retail

Alcohol does wonders for parties. Especially boring or lame ones. Or any involving relatives. Or just people in general

Who can actually "entertain" if they spend all the time in the kitchen? Try to find recipes that you can make ahead so all you need to do is heat them up at the last minute.

I go to kids' websites and print out activities, coloring sheets, games, place mats, etc. for whatever holiday we are celebrating. It keeps the kids entertained while they are waiting to eat.

I try my best to prepare as much as possible ahead of time so that I may enjoy my guests.

I love putting on christmas music and everyone drinking hot cocoa around a fire. It gets everyone in the christmas mood, and is awesome to have conversation with everyone. Thank you!

Make a lot of lists. Lists can save you so much time and energy!

Lee

A seemingly strange bit of advice: Get plenty of sleep.
In your long list of things to do make sure that sleep is near the top. You will be better able to cope with anything that comes up if you are rested. Thanks for the contest.

Have everyone pitch in to help with holidays(ex: one person sets the table,another cleans a designated room of the house, another one helps with the shopping and preparation of meals..)

Try to prepare foods ahead of time so that when your guests arrive you only need to heat things up.

You can never be too prepared for guests. Check, double check, and triple check to ensure you have everything you need on hand.

My tip is to prepare easy things the day before the event. Also, dont be ashamed to accept help. Cooking a feast for a family is hard work

My tip: Take time for yourself. We get so caught in the moment,and forget about ourselves. Just relax.

Have alternative to alcohol drinks for your guests .

To decorate the house, I have the kids cut out cardboard holiday shapes to add some lovely holiday feel.

For small informal gatherings, involve your guests in helping you mix drinks & helping out in the kitchen with the finger food, etc.

Keep extra toilet paper, soap and paper towels available.

My tip is to try to prepare things ahead of time so there's no last minute rush

Bake cookies ahead of time, freeze in airtight containers

I don't have a fireplace so for the holidays I play a DVD of a fireplace with soft music.

I make cheese dip the day before along with stuff jalapeno's wrapped in bacon.

Air out your home before company comes over.

Mix a few squirts of dish soap in a water bottle with warm water ...& spray your furnitutre & carpets.
Have scented candles & plenty of Scott Toliet paper in yur bathrooms!

I make my desserts and some of my sides the day before so i'm not in a rush the day of the party.

Don't do too much. Christmas and the rest of the holidays will be less stressful if you only do the things you absolutely love...with the people you love.

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