Thanksgiving is over, and the holiday party season is in full force! Before you stress out, here are a few tips for getting ready for the next round of festivities.

What are you hosting next? A cocktail party? A cozy holiday meal for immediate family? An open house for hordes of people? Preparing for each will involve different necessities and organization, so figure that out before anything else.

Take stock of your supplies. Once you know what kind of event you’ll be preparing for, make a list of what you have or have to get. Do you have enough stemware? Do you need more plates/cups? Does the bar need to be replenished? Get decorations and supplies that match your party style or theme. Festive drink garnishes for a fancy cocktail party, fun photo booth props or s’mores bar ingredients for family parties, etc.

Organize and take inventory. As you sort through various platters, bowls, pitchers, vases and other pieces, take note of what is missing or broken. Also, pay attention to pieces lurking in the back of the cabinet. When was the last time you used them? Consider donating anything you haven’t used recently.

Clean everything.Give the kitchen a good scrubbing. Launder tablecloths, napkins and other linens. Better yet, drop them off at the dry cleaner.

Sort out the pantry, fridge & freezer. Clean out the refrigerator and pantry. If you find canned or boxed food that hasn’t expired and won’t be used in the next few weeks, donate it to a food drive or pantry.

Restock. Think about what you’ll be cooking or baking for the holidays. Get your herbs, spices and staples organized, and make a list of things you need to replenish.

Check cookware and kitchen tools. While you’re planning your party menu, figure out what pots, pans and cooking tools you will need. If you need to pick up an extra cookie sheet, put it on the list.

Go shopping. In addition to cookware and kitchen staples, look for basic white dishes, wineglasses and nice flatware.

Prep for overnight guests. Clean up the guest room, wash the bedding and towels.

The next round of holiday festivities will be even better than the last with these helpful tips to prepare! So get your game plan ready, and start enjoying the holidays with your loved ones!

The Schaeffer Family is dedicated to the mission of providing families in New Jersey with quality built, affordably priced new homes for over 60 years. Visit www.schaefferhomes.com or call 856-208-5118 for more information.