(NewsUSA) - There’s something about hosting family and friends for the holidays — it creates space for joy and togetherness, laying the foundation for new memories and stories for a lifetime to come. However, all hosts know — putting together the perfect holiday does not come without the stress of planning.

Fortunately, no host must prepare alone, especially with a trusted source in homestyle cooking and hospitality in their back pocket. Cracker Barrel has just the right tips for you to prepare a warm, comforting meal, that will leave your guests feeling like they’re right at home.   

Preset the Table. First thing’s first, preset your table the night before to allow more time for day-of preparations. Simple table settings are beautiful, elegant and won’t get in the way of the food platters. If your table needs a little something extra, shop Cracker Barrel’s retail store online to pick out this year’s festive setting and have décor shipped directly to you.

Make a Playlist. Music is the key to setting your holiday ambiance. Create a playlist ahead of time to ensure your guests are in the holiday spirit. Need inspiration? Cracker Barrel’s online music section has all the new and classic holiday albums.

Simplify the Apps. You know your guests are coming hungry, so keep your appetizers quick and simple! Opt for starters like chips and salsa, cheese and crackers, popcorn or nuts. Or, cater Cracker Barrel and choose from a menu of shareable sides and appetizers that are sure to provide the “wow” factor in no time.

Let Someone Else Do the Heavy Lifting. Let’s face it, holiday meal prep is a lot of work. Ordering a prepared Thanksgiving meal — complete with turkey and all the best sides — can allow you to spend quality time with family and friends. Consider Cracker Barrel’s Thanksgiving Heat n’ Serve Meals as a time-saving, stress-free option this year. Available in two sizes, these full meals go from oven to table in just 2-3 hours.

With these simple tips, hosts can spend extra time making memories with loved ones. Whether setting up on the front porch for family portraits, or sitting and connecting over conversation, just as many memories are made on the front porch as at the dinner table.

This season, members of Cracker Barrel’s new rewards program, Cracker Barrel Rewards™, can make their holiday hosting moments even more special with a custom rocking chair co-designed with Dolly Parton. To celebrate the launch of the new program, the brand is teaming up with Dolly on a “Rewards That Rock” campaign and giving rewards members a chance to win one of 667 limited-edition rockers now through December 4, currently showcased on Cracker Barrel front porches nationwide.

Sign up for Cracker Barrel Rewards in-store, online or through the app to start earning rewards that can help make this year’s gathering the best yet. Not only is Cracker Barrel your home away from home, it can also help you make your house a home this holiday season.