If the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, they can also be the most stressful. The prospect of hosting holiday dinners and family gatherings can be overwhelming. Style expert Jackie Rogers shares party tips that will impress your guests while making hosting a get-together as easy as A, B, C.

Rogers says that when it comes to a successful holiday dinner or gathering, it’s all about ambiance, beverages and cuisine.

A – Ambiance

The dinner table is usually the main gathering place, a prime focal point to set the mood for your get-together. Start with an elegant tablecloth in a rich ivory, crimson red, silver or gold. Add depth and texture by using a coordinating table runner and napkins for a stylish touch. For centerpieces, flowers work for almost any occasion, but if you’re feeling a little more inventive, play with candles, pinecones, greenery and ribbon for a centerpiece that reflects the season.

B – Beverages

When it comes to drinks, keep it simple. Make one signature drink for your party. This will allow you to keep things fun and festive without spending the entire night taking drink orders. Create an even more memorable occasion by giving your signature drink a signature name – say Santa Sangria or Mistletoe Martini?

C – Convenient cuisine

The holiday season is about mixing and mingling. Don’t isolate yourself in the kitchen. Save hours of preparation time by taking advantage of the many dishes that come prepared. A fully cooked, ready-to-heat-and-serve ham or turkey is a great way to ensure a delicious dinner without enslaving you in the kitchen. And instead of blanketing the table in side dishes, keep it simple with a starch and two vegetables. These steps will provide an impressive, hassle-free meal while allowing you to spend more time with family and friends.

– Courtesy of Family Features