December 25, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES III & IV • Page 13 Planning must-haves when hosting a party Hosting a party at home can be a great way to get together with family and friends, but hosting is also a big responsibility that requires lots of pre-party planning and preparation. Part of that preparation involves stock- ing up on must-have items so guests’ needs can easily be met once the party starts. When taking inventory of supplies, it helps to break things down into categories and make a list of items grouped according to categories. This can make a supply shop- ping trip that much easier. Kitchenware Unless you’re hosting a cocktail party, you’re going to need more than just glasses come the big day. How much kitchenware you will need depends on how many guests will be attending, but be sure to have enough plates, utensils, napkins (cloth napkins for more formal affairs), cocktail napkins, serving bowls, and glasses (for wine, water, cocktails, beer, coffee, tea, soda, etc.). Food and beverages You can never have too much water on hand for guests. If you will be serving alco- hol, make sure to have both red and white wine, beer, liquor to prepare mixed drinks or cocktails, and soda. Stock up on ice, too. When buying food, buy enough so no one goes home hungry at the end of the night. Main course leftovers can also be placed in doggie bags and taken home by guests. In addition, be sure to have plenty of snacks on hand in case the main course takes longer to cook than originally anticipated. Stock up on standard fare like chips and pretzels, but have gluten-free snacks and healthier fare like fruits and veggies so guests on special diets won’t go hungry. Furniture Make sure you have enough furniture so no one is left standing for most of the party. Some extra folding chairs might be enough when hosting an indoor affair. The bare essentials No matter the size of your gathering, spills are to be expected. Have some clean- ing supplies, including paper towels, club soda, and household cleaning products, at the ready so spills can be quickly and easily cleaned. Make sure there is plenty of hand soap in the bathroom, and stock up on toilet paper before guests arrive.