To keep it as simple as it sounds, it helps to stay organized.
I know spreadsheets arent for everyone, but some sort of document will save you a lot of confusion.
This will prevent repeat cookies from showing up at your table too.
Avoid cookie feuds, and tell invitees they can bring whatever they want but there will be no repeats.
Ask about food allergies
While youre out there inviting people, get a list of dietary restrictions.
If youve got a friend with mild nut allergies, consider having a nut-free cookie station.
Its a good idea to ask that everyone bring a particular number.
Usually one or two dozen cookies per person is sufficient.
Not so much if everyone is using Plugra butter, but if purchased cookies are okay.
You know your friends better than they do sometimes.
Local bakeries make some fabulous holiday cookies, so why not sample their wares?
I would stop there though.
Theres something decidedly un-festive about two boxes of Entenmanns showing up on your table.
Then the participants line up and do a quirky conga-line, snaking around the table.
It gives me buffet-at-a-wedding vibes, and I dont love it.
Supply takeout containers
Provide paper containers and paper bags (or reusable totes you hate).
I prefer thelong, rectangular, paper sortwith the tab top.
Have your guests load up their spoils straight into these containers.
Prevent tons of leftovers
Encourage guests to exchange first, and eat second.
Once everyones been through and filled their boxes, open up the floor to general face-stuffing.
This is when the real eating and complementing begins.
With the packing up out of the way, everything else is fair game.
