From preparing and serving the food, refreshing drinks, mingling with guests, and being an all-round gracious host, there really is a lot to think about on Christmas Day, especially when you’re the one hosting. So, I asked around and spoke to several people whom I consider to be excellent hosts and listed down some of their dos and don’ts when hosting a big Christmas lunch.

If you too, are looking to be the hostess with the mostest this year, check out some of these tips:

• Be ready before your guests arrive, as it’s always nice for them to be greeted by their host or hosts upon arrival. Alternatively, don’t wait until the last minute to start getting ready, as there’s nothing more awkward than for a guest to arrive and be left waiting for their host to come down.
• Have your snacks and appetisers laid out, and for the most, part, ensure that most of the cooking and food prepping is done – Your turkey should be resting at this point, and the only reason your oven or stovetop should be on, is if you’re using them to re-heat your sides. In short, don’t be a stressed-out host who spends the entire evening in the kitchen, and not enough time with your guests.
• Make sure all your guests feel comfortable and included. If there’s someone new in the mix, be sure to introduce them to everyone, and once the food is ready, either seat them next to you, or next to someone you’re fairly certain they would get along with. Do not however, leave them to their own devices and assume that they will naturally integrate, and also, don’t spend the evening catching up with one person (or persons), and not giving others the same attention.
• For the most part, invite guests who already know each other. Though it’s fun to meet new people sometimes, Christmas is usually a time for friends, families and loved ones, and the gathering should reflect the same. Guests should feel comfortable, relaxed and cosy, and not feel pressured to make small talk and mingle with strangers. So, do not invite all strangers. And if you’re tempted to introduce new people to each other, host a mixer after Christmas!
• Be as present as you possibly can. Remember, your guests are not just there to eat, but they’re also there to see you.  Don’t be a frazzled host who cannot sit down for more than 2 minutes at a time.  Believe me, as the child of a mother whose idea of hosting is to run around like a headless chicken, it really isn’t fun, and most likely, your guests will leave feeling stressed and perhaps even a little guilty for putting you out so much.
• If you’re doing gifts, then make sure there is something for everyone. These do not have to be expensive or extravagant; something small and thoughtful would be just as appreciated. Be sure however, to not forget anyone as this would make for a very awkward goodbye, especially if they showed up with a gift for you. It also helps to have a little something extra on hand, just in case one of your guests asks to bring a plus 1 at the last minute.
• If you’re not sure, enquire with regards to allergies, and accommodate accordingly. If someone has a dangerous nut allergy for example, then ideally omit them from the meal, or be sure to let them know what dishes to avoid. Believe me, your guest will be extremely appreciative that you thought of them. DON’T however, go crazy worrying about guests’ dietary restrictions. Despite what we just said, you are their host, not their nutritionist. Special meals do not need to be prepared for each guest; just make sure there are options.
• Keep the recipes traditional, and do not opt for healthy options. The holidays in general are a time for decadence, and people are most likely ditching their diets and coming over to EAT.  Believe me, seeing their favourite casserole or stuffing replaced with a ‘healthy alternative’ will only be met with disappointment. It’s Christmas, go nuts!
• Some background music is always nice, and makes for a cosy gathering. Don’t, however, make it so loud where people have to shout in order to be heard.
• Lastly, it is okay to seek help, whether it’s hired help or asking a close friend or relative to give you a helping hand on the day. You don’t have to do it all yourself, especially if it gets in the way of your holiday fun! Don’t, however, rely too heavily on your guests, as that won’t go down too well either.

There you have it. It is these simple, yet thoughtful things that will make all the difference to your guests. Happy Holidays!