Gathering with family and friends is one of the most cherished traditions of the holiday season, but it can also require a fair amount of prep if you’re hosting.

Here are some serving essentials that can help you present delicious meals, impress your guests, and make cleanup effortless, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Covered charcuterie board

A stylish platter filled with meats, cheeses, and snacks is a perfect centerpiece for any get-together, and a covered one will help keep everything fresh and presentable. Pair your board with elegant serving utensils like cheese knives, spreaders, and small forks to make it easy for guests to sample its tasty offerings.

Slow cooker

This convenient set-it-and-forget-it appliance will keep everything from hearty chili to mulled wine heated and ready to serve. Look for a slow cooker with a Warm setting to maintain the ideal serving temperature without overcooking its contents. Additionally, an oval-shaped one will be the most versatile because it can accommodate larger cuts of meat and a variety of dishes. If you expect to host a crowd or multiple events, consider acquiring two vessels, such as a seven-to-eight-quart one for your main course and another with sections for appetizers like cheeses or dips. Slow cookers can also simplify cleanup since their pots are usually nonstick and dishwasher safe.

Dinnerware

A versatile collection of white plates will not only make your food look great but also match just about any holiday tablescape; add a few similar serving dishes to elegantly present everything from fresh crudités to pastry-wrapped hot dogs. However, just be sure that your choices are made of a durable material like porcelain so they last year after year.

You could then add stainless-steel flatware in silver or even gold or matte black for a modern touch of elegance, accompanying it with eight-ounce tumblers, which are ideal for both cocktails and mocktails. Finally, complete the look with colorful cloth napkins of your choice for an extra dash of festivity.

Cleanup products

To make packing up and storing leftovers as simple as possible, have a collection of glass containers with lids on hand. And consider gifting yourself a robot vacuum so it can clean your floors after your guests are gone—providing you with well-deserved time to relax and bask in a job well done.