Do delegate
Delegation is crucial. Not only does it spread the load, but people also love playing a part. Last year, I put a huge pile of greenery on the table and had a team of helpers fill dozens of jam jars to decorate the tables. We also asked everyone to contribute something to the meal – smoked salmon, turkey, ham, cheese, Christmas pudding, crackers. It was a huge help to us and I told myself it gave everyone their moment to shine. While the turkeys were roasting (one on the barbecue), I was in charge of building the canapés. The children helped me wrap cheese, dried fruit and nuts in bacon. Obviously, the end result was a gooey mess, but it caused much hilarity. – Nicola Harding
Do stay in your PJs as long as possible
I love the soft brushed cotton of Sian Esther’s stripes or Roanne Orlebar’s cotton Pima sets. And until my kids rebel, they’ve got matching PJs too. – Deborah Brett
Do take your turkey to the table
There is something very festive as you stagger to the table holding a massive turkey for all to ‘ohh’ and ‘ahh’ at. – Margot Henderson
Don't fret about the mess
No one cares. – Deborah Brett
Do invite old friends
A beautiful table cloth is crucial, something you really treasure. I have a holly table cloth my mother-in-law Elizabeth made many years ago and it's still going strong. Christmas decorations are like long lost friends, it’s important to look after them as they reenter your life once a year, sometimes a little battered or worse for wear. – Margot Henderson
Do make a detailed timing sheet for all the cooking
We love having a huge feast at Christmas lunch with lots of sharing plates. So timing is key to make sure everything comes out hot and fresh and not overcooked and mushy. – Deborah Brett
Don't be beaten in the paper crown competition
I’ve been known to go to bed still wearing mine. – Deborah Brett
Don't skimp on seating
Before your guests arrive, consider setting up some additional seating areas, so people don’t need to be on top of each other. – Nicola Harding
Do defrost the freezer
Defrost the freezer and clean out the fridge by December 20 or 21, removing unnecessary items before the additional Christmas groceries arrive. Make two or three batches of fresh ice, if you have the freezer space to store them. – Sally Clarke
Don't scrimp on crackers
They are the best bit! – Deborah Brett
Do have plenty of champagne
As one can never find the corkscrew. – Rita Konig
Do enjoy it
Remember, what people want more than anything is you in a good mood – not a frazzled, perfection-focused version of yourself. – Nicola Harding
Do prepare the house for guests
Thoughtful hosts double check whether there’s loo paper and soap and that the light bulbs work. – Sophie Dahl
Do be informative
For heavens sakes warn guests if plans involve black tie and let them know how far to go. There’s nothing worse than coming down in a tartan skirt and a woolly jumper when your hostess is dripping diamonds. – Wendy Nicholls, Chairman of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler
