Stress-Free Holiday Party Shortcuts from the Pros

That classic carol may sing about decking the halls with boughs of holly, but if you want your guests to have a really good time, maybe you should switch to citrus. Research shows that "ambient scents," like orange and peppermint, can boost people's attitudes toward the music, the dancing and the overall experience at a club. You can bring the scent home in a subtle, decorative way by drying out orange slices and hanging them on a Christmas tree, garland or tucking them into a centerpiece, recommends blogger Sherry Petersik, who runs Young House Love with her husband, John. Simply slice a few oranges, arrange them on a baking sheet and put them in the oven for 2 to 3 hours at 225 degrees. When they've cooled, attach hooks and hang wherever you see fit.