Pull up a chair …

… time we had a chat.

Before we go any further here are a few hints and tips to help you with the forthcoming festivities.

Don't wait until Christmas Eve to try out a new recipe – you'll be devastated if the jewel in your Christmas crown fails. If you want to serve something new, road test it.

How do you shop? If you are a fan of on line shopping remember those three little words – “book your slot” – early.

It's the little things that guests ask for that tend to get forgotten. I can't help but think of an obvious example – do you have sauce for the bacon sandwiches?

Which brings me to … who doesn't love a list?! If you aren't a list maker and you've a houseful of guests due you might want to consider giving it a shot. A list will help you get organised and I should add that there'll be more than one. Check the pantry and/or your store cupboard – buy the non-perishable bits and pieces now. There'll be a list of stuff you need to order – bear in mind it will have to be collected too. There'll be another list of stuff you can't get until the last minute – fresh fruit and veggies, salad stuff.

I plan my menus and then make my shopping list(s) from the plan. It's not set in stone but it sure helps.

I'm not going to give you chapter and verse about a traditional Christmas lunch or anything else for that matter. I'm just going to throw around some ideas for a canapé or two, followed by a recipe that would be great for Boxing Day brunch or lunch and suggestions for easy desserts that can be assembled from ingredients that are to hand from your pantry or your freezer.

Lets get on.