What You Need for the Perfect Get-Together

When it comes to welcoming guests this time of year, one of the most frustrating feelings is going through hours of prep work only to realize during the gathering that there is still something you overlooked. To help prevent such nuisances, consider the following under-the-radar must-haves. By keeping them on hand, you can better ensure that the event goes off without a hitch and make cleanup afterward a little easier.

Cordless handheld vacuum

More people equals more mess, but an easily accessible handheld vacuum can allow you to pick up small spills in a pinch. Some cordless varieties can handle both dry and wet messes, enabling you to tackle virtually any mishap that occurs.

Designated trash cans

You’d be surprised by how much trash can accumulate after just a few hours, and having to empty the bin multiple times throughout the party is a huge pain. Set up and label receptacles—for both trash and recycling—in each of the main areas of your home. This will prevent attendees from having to search high and low to dispose of their waste and you from having to take a bag outside so often.

Ice machine

An ice maker might sound superfluous, but if your event is long or has a lot of guests, it can be a much easier option than trying to estimate how many bags you might need from the local gas station. Alternatively, if your freezer has a built-in ice maker, collect a few bags of ice from it in the days leading up to your party to help ensure that you don’t run out.

Unscented candles

Certain smells can be divisive at best and downright irritating at worst, so it’s best to avoid fragrant candles altogether. Opt for unscented varieties instead, which will provide your home with a pleasant glow without an overbearing aroma.

Finding yourself in a pinch during a holiday event can be stressful, but by equipping yourself with these essentials, you can spend less time problem-solving and more time making lasting memories with your loved ones.