Hosting Christmas Checklist

Thinking of hosting some family and friends over during Christmas? Perfect, here’s a Hosting Christmas Checklist that will get you going.

The Household

Make sure there are enough chairs for everyone
Check you have plenty of cutlery, crockery and glasses
Napkins, crackers – gather any bits you need for setting the table
Grab lots of extra loo roll, tupperware (for leftovers), cling film and foil
Make space in the fridge/freezer for leftovers
Make sure that the first-aid kit is fully kitted
Be prepared with extra bedding, pillows and air beds if needed
Get fresh bedding ready in spare rooms
Operation ‘tidy up the house’ (involve everyone of course!)
Make sure there’s enough parking spaces. If your neighbour’s away, ask to borrow their space.

Buy in some emergency presents in case you have unexpected guests or the kids receive surprise gifts from friends
Make sure you schedule in lots of time for present wrapping
Have your scissors, tape, gift tags, ribbons and wrapping paper ready
Grab some bin liners so that when the presents are opened, the rubbish goes straight in the bags unless you have a nice fireplace going. Though, check that the rubbish is okay to burn first.
A pillow case containing a combination of little presents and main ones is a good alternative if you’re breaking away from stockings

Decide your meal plan early and check with guests for any dietary requirements
Make a comprehensive shopping list, opt in for online order stress-free option if available
Book your Christmas supermarket delivery slot
Plan for a last-minute supermarket trip, just in case
Stock up on store cupboard to avoid getting caught out
Organise some nibbles (chips, nuts, humous, carrots, biscuits) to keep guests occupied

Set up a Christmas playlist so there’s no messing with the iPod mid-meal
If there’s any Christmas telly you can’t bear to miss, set reminders or recording early
Stock up on drinks (alcoholic and soft) and ice, if fridge space is at a premium
Get some craft supplies together to keep the youngsters entertained
Raid the cupboards for board games and packs of playing cards
Buy some batteries – it’s inevitable you’ll need them at some point
Hosting a party? Designate one room especially for your younger guests – stock with art supplies, video games, DVDs and blu-rays, snacks (low in sugar!) – anything you see fit to keep them entertained.
And for the adults, mulled wine and eggnog.
Don’t forget Christmas Crackers!!!