BY INVITING FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES TO A HOLIDAY COOKIE SWAP, YOU CAN SAMPLE NEW RECIPES AND SHARE SWEET MEMORIES — AND YOU’LL BE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT HOW EASY IT IS TO HOST YOUR OWN. HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR EVENT ONE TO REMEMBER.

PLAN YOUR TREATS IN ADVANCE

In order to figure out how many cookies you’ll need, you should ideally know how many guests will be attending. You’ll want attendees to have at least one or two servings of each cookie, with enough left over so they can take a few of every variety home. As a general rule, ask each guest to bring three to six dozen cookies — and if you think that won’t be enough, plan to keep extra treats on hand.

PLAY FESTIVE MUSIC

Joyful holiday tunes are sure to put everyone in good spirits, and you can easily find a variety of free playlists online. Simply search “Christmas playlist” on Youtube.com to view an array of options, ranging from traditional holiday classics to modern pop hits.

ARRANGE A COOKIE-DECORATING STATION

Set out a tray of homemade sugar cookies in holiday shapes for guests to decorate. Include a variety of icing colors in pre-filled tubes or bags, as well as sprinkles and small candies, so that attendees can get creative. For an additional special touch, gift each guest their own apron.

CREATE A TASTY BUFFET

Arrange a festive spread of fresh fruit, finger sandwiches and sweet treats for your attendees to nosh on while they’re enjoying the event.

GIVE GUESTS RECIPE CARDS

To make it easy for everyone to share their recipes with one another, set out a box of blank recipe cards and a few pencils or pens.

DON’T FORGET TAKE-HOME BOXES

Gift each person either a festive paper box or plastic container so they can load up on cookies and safely transport them home.