This post comes courtesy of Monelle Totah, a member of Williams-Sonoma’s tabletop and home team. 

The holidays are all about entertaining, whether it’s a casual open house or a classic Christmas dinner. There’s a perfect setting for every occasion — it all comes down to a great table and a festive environment. With these five tips, you can free yourself from holiday stress and enjoy your party!

Your Perfect Menu

A holiday menu can be anything you want it to be. Start by choosing your party style — from casual and relaxed to elegant and sophisticated. Once you’ve decided how you want to celebrate, it’s easy to create a menu filled with foods that will make the meal special.

Set a Festive Scene

Create the perfect atmosphere for your party. The menu establishes the mood — and tableware and decorations set the scene. Even if you just own white dishes (a versatile choice), you can add color and pattern with bright linens, festive glassware, candlesticks and centerpieces.

A Warm Welcome

Whether you’re having a sit-down dinner or a buffet, your table should feel warm and inviting. Handwritten place cards always make guests feel special. Salt and pepper shakers at either end of the table are a must — and beautiful napkin rings create a perfect finishing touch.

Serve It in Style

When it comes to parties, presentation is everything. Create an inviting table by mixing beautiful serving pieces in wood, glass and silver. Take out the pieces early in the day and mark each with a post-it note to remind you what will go inside.

Just Add Friends

A great party is one where everyone is relaxed and having fun — including the host. So forget the last-minute frenzy and just add a few finishing touches. Remember, everyone looks wonderful in the glow of candle light. Crank up the carols, pop the cork — and enjoy your celebration!

About the author: Monelle Totah, a member of Williams-Sonoma’s tabletop and home team, has been with the company for over 10 years. Along with her team of designers, she develops seasonal tabletop and entertaining stories. Born and raised in the South, Monelle grew up decorating and entertaining: “Entertaining should be a reflection of who you are and what you love…its about a house full of family, friends, laughter…and plenty of ice!”