Because you never know when extra guests or last-minute parties will pop

Holiday season has a bad habit of sneaking up on me every year. I can be so prepared with to-do lists, gift lists, and all the ribbon and packaging already purchased last year. Yet once December 1st hits, it’s like a checkered flag and the days start racing by.

Through the rush of all the receptions, garlands, holiday parties, Christmas cards, and more, there’s nothing quite like stopping to host a few friends and enjoying the warmth of the season.

Here are a few items I’ve learned to keep on-hand during this busy time to help stay prepared:

1. Guest towels

I’m a big fan of disposable guest towels – especially around this time of year when colds and the flu are spreading around. I love them because you can change them out by the season, the party you’re hosting, the guests you’re having over – you name it.

Caspari makes some of my favorites (like these classic Scalamandre ones). I’ve also found several fun ones on Amazon and Home Goods, though one of the best ways to find more unique ones is by nosing around local boutiques and shops. I haven’t been able to find these leopard ones I purchased last year, but here are some alternatives if you’re partial to these wild spots.

2. Cocktail Napkins (while we’re on the topic of paper goods)

Cocktail napkins are such conversation starters (like these used in our Halloween post here) and I can barely leave a store without a handful. I love mixing classic ones, like these blue and white ones, with witty ones. Greet an unexpected guest at the door with a glass of sweet tea and a fun napkin and they’ll feel instantly welcome. And, y’all, there are so many cute Christmas and holiday napkins out there.

3. A few wedges of good cheese

My secret for creating an effortless, done-in-minutes appetizer? A good cheese board. It’s like the frittata of hosting. As long as you have two or three good cheese wedges in the fridge, you can layer on just about anything: grapes, cranberries, dried apricots, walnuts, pecans, almonds, and the list goes on.

4. Fun barware

I love a good set of fun glasses at a get-together – like these cute cheetah print frosted cups I found the other weekend at Skinny Dip Charleston (more on that trip here). Great glassware can dress up (or down) a party in an instant and add that little something extra to every gathering.

5. Extra wine and bubbly

Now that we’re talking barware, I have to mention #5 on my list…extra wine and prosecco/champagne. Sneak peek: I’ll be sharing a few quick 3-ingredient recipes on the blog later this week with bubbly that look like they took ages and are oh-so-chic. A good bottle of wine or champagne also makes a fabulous host/hostess gift with a great holiday bow.

6. Ribbon, ribbon, and more ribbon

Stock up on wired ribbon and un-wired ribbon in all different widths throughout the year – it’s one of my favorite things to buy the day after holidays (especially on December 26th through NYE). I always go through so much ribbon this time of year from the Christmas trees to the garlands and host/hostess gifts in between. Stock up now and often.

What are some of your last-minute hosting must-haves? I’d love to hear them! Cheers, y’all, and happy holidays!