Let's talk holiday parties! ...fun drinks included

We're getting our host skills geared up to serve up the ultimate holiday parties...drinks included.

We love holiday parties, especially when we're surprised and delighted by little special touches created by the hosts. From custom-designed cocktails to gorgeous decor, as guests it's always fun to have something unique to discuss with the other guests (especially if we don't know each other). And honestly, it makes us feel more special as guests that the hosts took time out of their busy lives to make their event a little more special.

Designer Taniya Nayak might be best known as an HGTV host and designer on Food Network's Restaurant Impossible. She's also a successful, Boston-based interior design firm, Taniya Nayak Design LLC., where she adds a fresh, clean look to both commercial and residential spaces.

Entertaining designer Lulu Powers fresh approach to hassle-free entertaining – from food to flowers – has made her a sought-after talent, inspiring mentor, and credible entertaining lifestyle expert. Mindful of her client’s resources and at times, fear of entertaining, she imparts her wisdom with spirit and panache to transform the simple into sublime. Lulu is a best-selling author of "Food to Flowers."

Food and wine blogger/writer Maggie Unzueta is a recipe developer who shares her creations on her blog Mama Maggie.