You ask us...

QI’m hosting Christmas for the first time, and am worried about how I’m going to cope with keeping 11 guests entertained and happy. Any tips? Firstly, don’t worry; there are plenty of people embarking on this for the first time. Between balancing entertaining the needs of your guests and cooking the 3pm meal, it can all become a little stressful.

Planning is key, so ensure you write a checklist! Get your fridge organised – and use outdoor space (perfect for cooling wine bottles if it’s cold!). Plan your seating, and If you can’t seat everyone, go for a buffet – it’s just as festive.

Ask the kids to get involved, by baking mince pies together, then freeze ahead – and they can help decorate the tree. It wouldn’t be Christmas without family traditions, so involve everyone and it’ll be easier than you think. Good luck!