*write a grocery list/check list of necessary ingredients to make sure you have everything you need!
*write a preparation schedule of the food so you can stay on target. make as many dishes ahead as you can.
*cut down on prep time by asking each guest to bring a dish to share. you can request a favorite dish or a certain item such as an appetizer or dessert. you can also suggest something to go along with a theme.
*assign guests certain "easy" items to bring especially at a family function. these items could be a drink, cranberry sauce, green salad, rolls, etc.
