Hosting a party should be just as much fun as attending one, right? That often requires a little planning. Make as much of the meal ahead of time so you can enjoy the party, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. The best thing you can do is choose a freezer-friendly main dish, and prepare it ahead of party time. Most casseroles, baked pasta dishes, and slow cooker soupsand stews freeze beautifully and feed a large crowd. Appetizers, like dips, can be made beforehand, and ingredients for side dishes and salads can be washed and chopped in advance. And don’t forget the table: Pull out your serving platters and set the table the night before and thank yourself later.

If you’re serving cocktails, don’t play bartender. Mix up a big-batch cocktail in a pretty pitcher, punchbowl, or large drink dispenser and let guests serve themselves with plenty of ice and glasses. Try these colorful, fruity party punches, a Bloody Mary Punchfor a daytime gathering, or set out a few bottles of chilled sparkling wine and fresh juices, like orange, grapefruit and cranberry, for pour-your-own mimosas.

Welcoming everyone with a drink and a delicious snack sets the tone for a fun night ahead. Anyone who has scrolled through Pinterest knows that it’s easy to get carried away with cute, bite-sized appetizers. But unless you’re hiring a caterer (or enjoy playing one), large amounts of mini food can create a huge amount of stress when you’re hosting a hungry crowd. Skip the fussy finger food and set out large trays of cheese and crackers, dips and crudités, and spiced mixed nuts.