Claire Robinson of 5 Ingredient Fix

says:

1.) Have a drink and nibble ready when guests arrive. If your guests have something to eat and drink, then they will be fine while you are finishing last minute prep. Also arrange nibbles (even if it's the same one) in different areas of your party to avoid a traffic jam around one dish.

2.) I love using gourds from the market to decorate the table. They are a great inexpensive item and last from Thanksgiving until the holidays. Set your table way in advance... it's the one thing guaranteed to hold.

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3.) Try using unexpected flavors with traditional recipes. This year I used chipotle in my sweet potatoes and fresh jalapeno along with limejuice and zest in my cranberry sauce for extra zing!

Anne Thornton of Dessert First with Ann Thornton

says:

1.) Traditional doesn't have to mean boring. In my house it isn't Thanksgiving with out a pumpkin dessert or an apple dessert, but I don't like to serve boring apple and pumpkin pie. So I make a Pumpkin Maple Pecan Cheesecake and I add cheddar cheese my apple pie dough and have a Cheddar Cheese Deep Dish Apple Pie.

2.) You have to have coffee with dessert, so dress up your coffee for the holidays. My special spiced coffee is an inexpensive way to add an extra something special to your dessert course.

3.) I love whipped cream and it is a wonderful addition to just about every dessert. I always make fresh whipped cream and have it on hand. It is great in coffee or served with berries as well.

Sarah Polonsky is a senior editor at BettyConfidential.

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