The house is decked out in its Christmas finery, the presents are wrapped and under the tree, and the final countdown to Christmas has officially begun. But, for those who are hosting family and friends this year, there is always the risk that these last few days become filled with dread rather than festive cheer. If this sounds familiar, we are here to help. We have rallied the entertaining troops to offer up their pearls of wisdom on everything from food preparation to all-important final touches in guest bedrooms and bathrooms. These designers, makers, chefs and writers are all excellent hosts so know that you’re in very good hands.
Do delegate
Delegation is crucial. Not only does it spread the load, but people also love playing a part. Last year, I put a huge pile of greenery on the table and had a team of helpers fill dozens of jam jars to decorate the tables. We also asked everyone to contribute something to the meal – smoked salmon, turkey, ham, cheese, Christmas pudding, crackers. It was a huge help to us and I told myself it gave everyone their moment to shine. While the turkeys were roasting (one on the barbecue), I was in charge of building the canapés. The children helped me to wrap cheese, dried fruit and nuts in bacon. Obviously, the end result was a gooey mess, but it caused much hilarity. – Nicola Harding
Do prepare the house properly
‘Thoughtful hosts double check whether there’s loo paper and soap and that the light bulbs work.’ – Sophie Dahl
Don’t fret about the mess
‘No one cares.’ – Deborah Brett
Do defrost the freezer
Defrost the freezer and clean out the fridge by December 20 or 21, removing unnecessary items before the additional Christmas groceries arrive. Make two or three batches of fresh ice, if you have the freezer space to store them. – Sally Clarke
Do embrace family traditions
‘I grew up in Hong Kong in the 1970s, and I’ve kept many of the British touches popular there, like making mince pies and hanging stockings on the fireplace. And now I’m so happy to have added Italian to the mix – there’s nothing better than tortellini in brodo for a Christmas meal.’ – Mimi Thorisson
‘When we’re all back here for Christmas, I try to switch off and become very domesticated. Sometimes you forget your identity, but when it comes to festivities, I’m all about remembering my Greek heritage, baking Christmas biscuits with honey and white sugar dusting.’ – Eva KarayiannisMi
Don’t forget old friends
‘A beautiful tablecloth is crucial, something you really treasure. I have a holly table cloth my mother-in-law Elizabeth made many years ago and it's still going strong. Christmas decorations are like long lost friends, it’s important to look after them as they re-enter your life once a year, sometimes a little battered or worse for wear. – Margot Henderson
Do make a detailed timetable if you’re cooking
‘We love having a huge feast at Christmas lunch with lots of sharing plates. So timing is key to make sure everything comes out hot and fresh and not overcooked and mushy.’ – Deborah Brett
Don’t be afraid to keep things simple
‘When we have friends over at Christmas, we like to keep it simple yet abundant. Make a simple cocktail, have boards of cheese and delicious things. Our cottage is very little, so you don’t need many people to make it feel very full and festive.’ – Jess Wheeler
Do be informative
‘For heaven’s sake, warn guests if your plans involve black tie and let them know how far to go. There’s nothing worse than coming down in a tartan skirt and a woolly jumper when your hostess is dripping diamonds.’ – Wendy Nicholls
Don’t run out of chairs
‘Before your guests arrive, consider setting up some additional seating areas, so people don’t need to be on top of each other.’ – Nicola Harding
Do stay in your pyjamas for as long as possible
‘I love the soft brushed cotton of Sian Esther’s stripes or Roanne Orlebar’s cotton Pima sets. And until my kids rebel, they’ve got matching PJs too.’ – Deborah Brett
Do stock up on Champagne
‘As one can never find the corkscrew for wine.’ – Rita Konig
Don’t scrimp on Christmas crackers
‘They are the best bit!’ – Deborah Brett
Do take the turkey to the table
‘There is something very festive as you stagger to the table holding a massive turkey for all to ohh and ahh over it.’ – Margot Henderson
Don’t be beaten in the paper crown competition
‘I’ve been known to go to bed still wearing mine.’ – Deborah Brett
Don’t forget to enjoy it
‘Remember, what people want more than anything is you in a good mood – not a frazzled, perfection-focused version of yourself.’ – Nicola Harding
Do remember the true meaning of Christmas
‘I don’t want the children to think it’s just about what they’re getting. I want them to think about having everyone together and looking after people who need looking after.’ – Callie Coles
