How to Throw a Party in a Pinch

Entertaining isn't always easy. Especially when holiday party hosting sneaks up on you, and your home needed to be guest-ready yesterday.

Luckily, a timely transformation is doable - especially when you're taking cues from this essential party planning list from Costco.com.

1. Let's talk tables

Set up several folding tables for appetizers, drinks and desserts. Position each table in a separate space to avoid overcrowding and encourage mingling.

Pro-Tip: Brown craft paper makes for an easy, toss-away tablecloth. Use a black or white marker to label food and drinks, suggest pairings or deliver good tidings.

2. Cut down on food prep work

Pre-made appetizers and desserts are a time-saving alternative to homemade snacks and sweets.

Pro-Tip: Small touches, such as dessert toppers, and mindful arrangements add to the ambience when guests are scoping out the sweet or savory snacks.

3. Dress your space with home decor

Top the tables with colorful tablecloths, candles and decorative centerpieces. Twist white lights around pillars or railings.

Pro-Tip: Give out candy or leftover treats to guests at the end of the party. Come prepared with Ziploc bags and aluminum foil.

4. Embrace the bouquet

Short on decorations? Floral arrangements are another favorite, especially when paired with clustered candles, twigs, pine cones and gourds.

Pro-Tip: To cover more space, divide a large arrangement into smaller clusters using mason jars. Fill more space using small vases or bowls filled with water and floating tea candles.

5. Lighten the mood with some music

Stream music wirelessly through your smart device using Bluetooth speakers. Select a playlist that pairs well with the occasion.

Pro-Tip: Place a notepad and a pen in a visible area, and invite guests to make their own music requests.

6. Premix the party punch

Serve cocktails that can be made in big batches, placing glassware nearby so guests can help themselves. Consider a portable ice maker to avoid a warm drink.

Pro-Tip: Side-by-side beverage dispensers are an easy way to offer alcoholic and non-alcoholic options – be sure to label accordingly.

7. Gear up for a warm welcome

A collapsible garment rack creates a space for guests to shed their layers in an organized fashion – make sure to include as many hangers as there are RSVPs.

Pro-Tip: If it's a particularly wet or snowy evening, line the entrance with doormats. Place another underneath the garment rack to catch runoff from wet outerwear.