9 Must-Have Items For the Gal Hosting Her First Holiday Party

Before you even think about opening the door to your first guest, it's imperative that you give your floors a once-over with a wet mopping cloth. Hosting in a home that hasn't been cleaned is a serious no-no. Grab your mopping tool and use these Clorox^® Scentiva^® Disinfecting Wet Mopping Cloths ($8) to disinfect, pick up dirt and hair, and give your house a radiant Tuscan Lavender & Jasmine scent that welcomes friends and family to your home in style. If lavender isn't your jam, try out the Pacific Breeze & Coconut or Fresh Brazilian Blossoms scents.

Every woman living on her own needs a really good cookwear set ($140). It's possibly the best investment you'll ever make, trust us. Plus, having several differently sized pots and pans is essential when cooking for multiple people.

Even if everything else comes out in whatever bowl you have on hand, having one nice platter for the main course gives your table the upgrade it needs. Use something like this midcentury-inspired set ($40) that will go with any type of decor.

If you don't have a dishwasher (and even if you do), you'll be so glad you opted for disposable plates at the end of the night. These bamboo babes ($22) are biodegradable and eco-friendly — plus, they look great on any rustic tablescape.

If you anticipate multiple bottles of wine being opened throughout the night, you'll want to save yourself a headache by having an electric wine opener ($20) on hand. No broken corks in sight!

Dinner parties are an excuse to go a little fancy with your decor! The simple addition of a leafy garland ($24) makes such a difference.

Don't make serving utensils an afterthought! This set ($20) works with everything from salad to green bean casserole.

Trust us — your guests will notice if you have nice soap ($22) in the bathroom. It's worth the money for the looks of approval and admiration your friends and family will give you when returning to the table.

Nothing is worse than parties with no background music. Make sure your get-together never has an awkward lull — Bluetooth speakers ($40) are all you need to keep the jams pumpin' all night long.