Take the stress out of seasonal celebrations

THE FESTIVE season is the perfect excuse to have a party and catch up with family and friends.

So, if you’re hosting a get-together, make sure the occasion is a success by planning in advance. Aldi is the one-stop shop for everything you need for your festivities.

Here, TV presenter Jennifer Reoch shares her top tips for throwing a fabulous party. I love a list – and I love scoring things off a list. I base my whole year on lists.

I don’t send out formal invites – it’s more likely to be a Facebook event page or WhatsApp messages and texts. It’s more informal that way and it keeps the pressure off.

And don’t leave the cleaning until 10 minutes before the party. Do the dusting and hoovering the day before. Finger food is great as people can help themselves to what they want. If you can avoid making a big meal, it’s one less thing to do.

Having food that you can take from the freezer, stick in the oven and heat up to serve on trays is ideal.

I love wee savoury bites – and cheese is a must. I also love sweet treats and mini-desserts. Anything mini means you can try one of everything. It’s good to have something for everyone. Loads of options – sweet and savoury – are the way to go. With all those presents you’ve just bought, you don’t want to go totally overboard with your party.

Know your numbers and plan the food shopping in advance because the planning will keep the cost down.

People just want the chance to get together so, if you can provide them with nice drinks and food, in a nice environment where they can catch up with friends and family, that’s the main thing.

Get the basics right and everyone will have a good time. At this time of year, I’m a sucker for all the festive tunes.