8 things to do now to make the holidays more jolly

1 Stock up on wrapping supplies.

Avoid the Christmas Eve scramble where you inevitably realize you don’t have enough tape or wrapping paper. Then, designate one easy-to-reach space for all of your holiday supplies.

2 Prepare your pantry.

Make sure your cupboards are stocked with Chatelaine food director Claire Tansey’s instant-party pantry essentials: olives, almonds, dates and crackers.

3 Buy hostess gifts in multiples.

Look for sets of pretty notebooks or delicious bags of holiday crackers — these can be opened, wrapped and distributed to more than one host. Buy sets that have variety to keep your gift-giving personal.

4 Load up your bar cart.

Ensure your bar cart is filled with the essentials before you start hosting.

5 Replenish your supply of candles, cocktail napkins and matches.

Stock up before the holiday madness sets in to avoid running out of essentials mid dinner party.

6 Make lists.

Keep separate lists going for different tasks: Food to buy for your dinner party; gifts to buy family; gifts to buy hostesses. Having your to-dos down on paper means you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything (or anyone!).

7 If you’re hosting, plan your meal now.

From the appetizers to dessert, it will take a weight off your shoulders if you know what you’re serving.

8 Dig out your tableware.

Unearthing your holiday items from the basement or storage space in advance gives you time to see what you still need.