[DeniseD]

Keep it SIMPLE!!! Serve buffet style, use sturdy plastic plates, cups, etc. Keep in mind some people will have to eat standing up so serve "easy" food, nothing that requires cutting. If you can tuck a tv table against a wall here and there, that will give people a place to rest their cups. Keep all beverages on a separate table, keep hot cups near hot beverages and cold cups near cold beverages. Or keep a small cooler with cold beverages near the beverage table. Keep a bag of ice in the cooler just for drinks to save table space. Place creamer in a bowl filled with ice - this helps in keeping the food table line flowing. Be sure all rolls & meats are pre-sliced for stuffing, pour condiments into small bowls and insert a spoon/knife. Wrap utensils in a napkin and store in a bowl for easy handling. Be sure each item has it's own serving utensil. Keep more than one set of s&p shakers on food table. If keeping hot foods on a table, use crockpots and surge protectors. Place festive napkins here and there throughout your house - everyone knows there's ALWAYS a spill!!!! Place several trash bags in trash container under the one in use. There won't be any searching for new bags and no need for spill overs. Be sure you start out with a clean dishwasher, pre-fill with soap and it's a click of the button before bed. Never do a big cleaning BEFORE a party. Spot clean the kitchen floor, vaccuum all obvious areas and keep hand wiping napkins in the bathroom to avoid soggy towels. Designate a coat-keeping area. Be sure your front light is on and keep the walkway/steps free of snow, ice or ankle-twisting pine cones. Be sure to set an "ending" party time. There's nothing worse than cleaning up at 1:00 a.m. This is FAMILY - enjoy them and don't sweat the small stuff. I know this is more than you asked for but all these tips have worked for me. I have 960 sf to party in. Happy Holidays to you and yours and remember, Friends don't let friends drink and drive! Set limits. I hope you have a great time!