Everywhere you turn this time of year, there’s another Pinterest board full of elaborate holiday party ideas. If you’re hosting a party, you may feel pressure to spend the entire month planning and prepping. But, throwing a great party doesn’t mean you need to stress yourself out. Make a pledge to enjoy your party as much as your guests by following these tips.

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Decorate for Quality, Not Quantity

Instead of spending a weekend decking out your entire home with lights and garland, pick a few pieces that will make a big impact. Outside decor can be as simple as a large wreath, potted poinsettias, and white lights. For the inside, place vases full of ornaments around your home and light some festive candles.

Focus on Light Bites

Cooking an entire meal for a party is a daunting task and a surefire way to feel overwhelmed. Instead, consider serving a variety of heavy hors d'oeuvres that will fill your guests up, like these Christmas appetizer recipes. Pick mostly appetizers than can be prepared ahead of time so you can spend more time with your guests than in the kitchen. Also think of food that requires no cooking -- a beautiful cheese or antipasto platter is often the hit of any party. Make sure to allot at least 1-2 servings of every appetizer for each person.

Make a Party Schedule

The day before, write up a list of reminders for what you need to do before and during the party. Schedule a time for each task to ensure you have enough time for everything. For example, your list may look something like this:

12 pm: Iron linens and set up tables

3 pm: Prep make ahead appetizers

5 pm: Set up mixers on bar

6 pm: Place cheese plate on coffee table

8 pm: Gather everyone for gift exchange

Skip Bartending Duties

To keep yourself from playing bartender all night, create a signature cocktail that can be mixed ahead of time. Domestic goddess Ina Garten recommends preparing a batch of your favorite cocktail in a pitcher, then serving over ice. If you leave out drink pitchers and an ice bucket, guests can just help themselves to a drink. Also set up a bar with mixers and liquors for guest to make their own drinks.

Use Plastic Silverware and Plates

While this isn’t an eco-friendly option, plastic dishware will save you a ton of time on clean up. Pick a festive pattern for plates and splurge on sturdy, high quality plastic silverware. Place several small trash bins around your home to encourage guests to throw out their own waste.

Are you hosting a holiday party this year? How do you plan on making it stress free?