The holidays, they are a-coming, aren’t they! Do you know how many Mondays are left before Christmas? Do you want to know? Neither do I!! 🙂 And there’s only two before Thanksgiving. Where on earth has 2015 gone?

Either way, I’m actually really excited to get into holiday entertaining mode. I’m already gearing up, both for Thanksgiving, for a weekend away and for our annual holiday party.

That’s not only menu planning, friend inviting and house-cleaning, of course. There’s a few steps you can take to get ready for the big day (or days) way ahead of time. Here are some of the things I do to stay sane:

1) Wash your glassware early. If you’re anything like me, you use the two wineglasses closest to the front of the cupboard over and over, and the ones in the back haven’t moved since your last party (and sometimes that is six months ago). Take an hour to get all your glassware out, wash it by hand, and polish it with a soft cloth so it’s ready to go on the big day. You will not have time for that the day of, or the day before!

2) Stock up on citrus early. In the fridge, citrus will last you at least a week. You will need it for ALL KINDS of things, from meats to cocktails to garnishes. I recommend keeping 4-5 lemons, 4-5 limes and a couple of oranges on hand at all times in the winter.

3) While we’re talking about stocking up, now is a great time to audit your baking material situation. Do you have extra powdered sugar on hand? A couple of pounds of butter in the fridge? Make a list, check it twice, and get your butt to the grocery store to stock up. There will be times when you are working last minute and need something, and with a little work ahead of time, you’ll be prepared!

4) Plan your decor early. I love this quiz that IZZE made, to figure out what your style of Friendsgiving/Thanksgiving you should have! This has to be one of my very favorite Instagram hacks. Give it a shot! I personally am decor-paralyzed. I need help. This was an awesome way to find ideas quickly, without scouring Pinterest for hours!

5) While you’re planning that decor, plan your drink situation. In my opinion, that includes the following:
a) Make sure to have plenty of nonalcoholic as well as alcoholic options (May I suggest IZZE Sparkling juice?).
b) Plan cocktails that YOU don’t have to stand and make. A great way to do this is to keep it simple. Spike a product that you already love! A shot of gin in a glass of IZZE Sparkling Pomegranate is one of my faves.
c) Add your own mix and match holiday garnishes – but leave them ready so guests can decorate their own!

So that’s what I”m doing to prepare. What about you? Tell me in the comments – I am especially looking for fun, easy cocktail ideas!