A few small purchases will ensure your party is one that your guests won't forget.
Invitations. Set the tone for your holiday gathering with an invitation that reflects your party style: casual or formal, trendy or traditional.
Fresh flowers. Flowers are a lovely and welcoming addition to a table or a guest bedroom. Buy a bunch and use them for decoration.
Plastic containers. Are you planning to send your guests home with leftovers? If so, be sure to have plenty of containers available.
Party favors. Send guests home with a small favor to help them remember your gathering. Candles, photographs and cookies are fun and festive options.
Centerpiece. Assemble a holiday-themed centerpiece. For Thanksgiving, use colored Indian maize, miniature pumpkins and a variety of gourds. For Christmas, find pine garlands, holly, mistletoe and pinecones. For Hanukkah, purchase dreidels and chocolate gelt.
Firewood. A roaring fire will make your guests feel cozy and warm on a cold night. If you don't have a fireplace, add a soft glow with candles.
Wreaths. Create an inviting entrance to your home with a seasonal wreath. Autumn leaves, eucalyptus or pine will evoke the spirit of the holidays.
Disposable hand towels. If you're planning on a crowd, disposable hand towels are an ideal alternative to cotton. They're soft on the hands but allow you to save the good towels for overnight visitors.
Soap. Fancy soaps, whether molded or French milled, will make your guests feel pampered.
More holiday entertaining essentials:
• What you need in your linen closet
• What you need in your cabinets
• What you need in your pantry
• What you need in your refrigerator
• What you need in your liquor cabinet
