The real reason we entertain

(BPT) - The holidays are here and parties are in full swing. At this time of year, there can be a lot of pressure to throw memorable parties that will keep people talking into the new year. Many people forget that the real cheer in holiday entertaining is spending time with family and friends.

In fact, 70 percent of people find the best part of entertaining – and the real reason they want to entertain – is spending quality time with loved ones, according to a nationwide Omnibus survey conducted in November of 2014.

So if you’re planning an event this year, prevent getting your tinsel in a tangle by keeping these simple tips in mind.

* DIY is A-OK. Want to get everyone in the spirit but your holiday decorations are from the land of misfit toys? Use everyday items you find in your home for a quick, easy and inexpensive way to decorate your table. Fill a vase with fruits, ornaments or pinecones to liven up your centerpiece. Put the finishing touch on your table by using old wine corks as inexpensive place card holders.

* Simple food is good food. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with guests. According to the survey, more than half of consumers consider a tortilla chips and dip platter a party must-have. Garden of Eatin'(R) Blues corn tortilla chips are made with just three non-GMO ingredients including organic blue corn. They can be paired with a simple seasonal dip made from fresh ingredients. It’s a fast, easy and delicious way to make a great dish for any holiday party. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze. Visit the Garden of Eatin'(R) Facebook page for more tips and share how you’re keeping the holidays simple.

* Less stress, more fun. The festive parties don’t always need to be the most extravagant. Over half of survey respondents say that casual, laid-back parties are the best when entertaining. You don’t have to make your list and check it twice to spread good cheer. Instead of holding a gift exchange, try engaging your guests in a photo and story exchange by asking them to share their favorite memory from the past year. Bonus points if you can share a time when someone else in the room made your day.

This holiday season, spend some time with loved ones, and don’t stress the mess. Instead, keep party planning simple with easy dishes and decorations.