Host a stress-free holiday party with these five helpful tips from entertaining expert, Mark Addison.

New York City-based entertaining expert and event designer to the stars Mark Addison shares his top tricks for hosting a stress- and stain-free party.

1 A polite reminder of house rules can be made to avoid accidents and stains, but messes are bound to happen at a party, so keep a stain fighter handy.

2 Premix a specialty cocktail to keep liquor costs down and make it easier to serve drinks. Don’t forget extra ice, and keep the chilling ice and serving ice separate.

3 If you see a carpet spill and can treat it right away, then do so. But save the major cleanup for after guests leave the party.

4 Tidy up by clearing dinner plates from the table and moving them into the kitchen. Otherwise, you should honour your guests by giving them your full attention.

5 If you’re a guest attending a party, an appropriate hostess gift is anything that will not disrupt her plans and won’t require arranging or serving.

For more fab holiday hosting tips, check out our Ultimate savvy hostess guide!