'Tis the season to be jolly. But as friends and family descend upon us, some might say, 'tis the season of unexpected guests and surprise gatherings.

Savvy hosts will have a few emergency supplies on hand and a couple of holiday tricks up their sleeve to pull together a memorable holiday party in a matter of minutes. Here are tips that will help you execute any impromptu get-together with ease.

Let the holiday celebration begin as soon as your guests walk through the door. Scented candles are the quickest way to put you and your guests into the spirit. Whether you choose the scent of gingerbread, pine or mulled wine, your house can quickly be transformed from everyday to holiday.Don't have candles? Skip the bowl of potpourri and instead place ribbon-wrapped bundles of cinnamon sticks around the room.

Every good party has a great drink. For the guest seeking to embrace the holiday spirit, a candy-cane-tini is the perfect drink.Combine one-half ounce of peppermint schnapps with 1 ounce of vodka and serve in a cocktail glass. Dip the rim of the glass in crushed candy canes for an added cheerful garnish.For those trying to steer clear of the holiday hangover, mix half cranberry juice and half ginger ale. Pour into a flute to create a festive non-alcoholic treat. Don't forget to stock up on hot cocoa for children. Jazz it up by hanging a miniature candy cane on the mug.

Instead of trying to gather people around a dining room table, provide your guests with the most social of dining experiences by serving fondue. The perfect party food, fondue is ready in minutes and provides the perfect setting for festive banter. Serve cheese fondue with bread cubes and apples.If the crowd is coming after a dinner, melt some dark chocolate and serve with bananas, strawberries and marshmallows.Children and grown-ups alike are guaranteed to have fun with it.

An impromptu gathering can lead to great stories and wonderful memories. Don't forget to keep a camera close by to capture it all for posterity.In the age of digital cameras, it's simple and easy to send favorite photographs out to guests in the days following your gathering as a reminder of a great time had by all.The last thing anyone wants is to feel rushed or panicked around the holidays. All it takes is some advance thinking and a can-do attitude to make any visitor feel welcome and loved. Take time to enjoy the season and your impromptu party.