With October quickly approaching, it’s likely that you’ll soon be hosting at least one big dinner party such as Thanksgiving for family and friends. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned vet at entertaining, these entertaining prep tips & tricks will help you prepare and allow you to relax and enjoy the company of your guests:

Don’t fret over hors d’oeuvres

Appetizers are great to have on hand when hungry guests arrive and are waiting for your delicious meal to be ready. But if you’re serving a meal centered around a big starring dish, appetizers can be simple and classic. A plate of crackers and dip is always a crowd pleaser, and leaves you with time and energy to concentrate on the main meal.

Prep as much food as you can before hand

You’ll probably be planning on serving some parts of the meal straight out of the oven. But there’s plenty that you can prep ahead of time. Chopping vegetables, baking dessert, or find dishes that can easily be made a day or two ahead. It might also help you out a lot if you stick to your tried and true dishes –whatever you’re signature recipe is that you’ve perfected to a tee, go with what works for now and try out trendy recipes another time!

Repeat for decor prep

There are a lot of details that need to pre-planned other than the food. Serving dishes, trays, and glassware may need to be dusted off, linens cleaned, and cookware organized. And if you have decorative extras that you’re dying to show off, make sure those are at hand as well. Taking stock of what you have and need will go a long to helping you be prepared on the day of your dinner party!

Don’t be afraid to buy part of your meal!

As with appetizers, don’t worry too much if side dishes are not perfectly homemade. Preparing not only a meal but a whole dinner party is a lot of work, and you definitely want to be able to enjoy yourself and greet your guests! Quick side dishes such as GoGo Quinoz Granissimo Basmati & Wild Quinoa Pilaf are easy, delicious and can help fill up guests’ plates.

Make a list and delegate

If you want to take your organization of the event to the next level, you’ll want to make a list of everything that needs to get done and when. Ideally, recruit some help from friends and family for all those last minute details and accept help whenever it’s offered!

What are your tips and tricks for entertaining? Leave them in the comments below!