How to Impress Your In-Laws During the Holidays

If you are hosting a holiday party and your in-laws are attending, there may be mounting pressure to impress your guests. Although it was by choice (or even if it wasn't), you still have to make the house look festive, cook to your mother-in-law's expectations and entertain with bubbling champagne. What to do? Follow a few steps for smooth sailing into the holiday season.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cleaning supplies
• Grocery list
• Recipes
• Table setting
• Champagne and/or wine glasses

1. The house MUST be clean. That is one of the biggest complaints made by family members. If your house doesn't present itself well in the first few minutes of your guests' arrivals, everything else is downhill. If you are not a master with the broom, hire a professional to clean before this special occasion.
2. Follow recipes. Even if you have an experimental side, follow the recipes and the exact measurements. After deciding what you'll make, line up the recipes, scan the pantry and refrigerator for items you already have and then make a grocery list.
3. Prepare what can be made a day in advance. That way, the day of the gathering, you will have time to take care of yourself. You will also be judged (sad but true).
4. Ambiance is imperative. Set the table and put name tags by each place setting. Guests will feel welcomed and it is an extra personal touch.
5. Play your favorite holiday songs. Finish up what needs to be cooked and get ready to pour the champagne!

Tips & Warnings

• Preparation is key. Clean and cook in advance. Make lists for items you will need.
• Ambiance will make or break your party. Download tunes or shuffle up your CDs.
• Keep the alcohol flowing! Everything will look (and taste) better with a wet palette.

Who Can Help:

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