To celebrate the holidays, people create special dishes, plan parties, send out cards and give gifts—all of which require lists.

Kiss the cook
Bakers bring out the big pans during the holiday season since this is a time when homemade sweets and traditional meals are served. Whether you’re whipping up something new or following an old family recipe, you’ll want to write down a shopping list to ensure you don’t forget any special ingredient.

Social butterflies
If you’re hosting a holiday get-together, it’s important to compose an invitation list approximately three weeks before the event. To guarantee a successful soiree, make additional lists including the menu; special services you may need to schedule; seating charts; and, last but not least, a playlist that will help set the stage for festive fun.

Signed, sealed and delivered
The trail of holiday cards begins with a list of names of family, friends, neighbors and business associates. Before you buy cards and visit the post office (yes, people still do that), check over all the addresses to ensure they are up-to-date. This also goes for email lists if you prefer sending your holiday greetings out the digital way.

It’s better to give than receive
Anyone who has ever sung or heard the lines, “he’s making a list, checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty and nice,” knows how important gift lists are to avoid overlooking someone. Under each person’s name on the list, write down the things they may want or need, and then cross each item off once it’s purchased. Some savvy consumers may also want to jot down the tally for each gift if a financial limit is set—unless your gift is priceless.

The Write Stuff
In all cases, it’s best to create lists on dry-erase cards, paper, boards or even walls from Writeyboard because you can erase each item once it’s accomplished. With this system underway, you’ll keep on top of season and be able to enjoy a hassle-free holiday.