It's Tinsel Time in Tinseltown

Like most things in Hollywood, the holidays are all about creating magic — often on a grand scale. Here, celebrities share their traditions, decorating and fashion tips, plus advice for being the ultimate party host

- By Joanna Powell

Glitz, Garlands and Good Cheer

When it comes to Christmas entertaining, Kathy Hilton doesn't just deck the halls — she transforms them into a full-on holiday wonderland. The self-styled “Mrs. Claus,” known also for her dramatic drop-ins on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, is throwing not one but four lavish fêtes this season, complete with a Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine and coveted gift bags that have included luxe Baccarat crystal ornaments in past years.

So when Us scored an invite to Hilton's annual holiday pajama party — cohosted with daughter Nicky Hilton Rothschild and QVC — we jumped at the chance to pick up some next-level entertaining tips. Wearing cheerful blue toile pajamas from her new Printfresh x Kathy Hilton Collection, she says the secret to setting the mood is all about ambience. “To make people feel warm and good, start with low lighting and scented candles,” Hilton tells Us. “You can walk into the most gorgeous house, but if it's too bright and you don't smell anything or see a flower, it's like, ‘Oh, God, who lives here? What is this?’”

Next, she says, comes the fun stuff — signature drinks and small bites. Her go-to lineup includes a vodka-and-fruit cocktail called the Hunky Dory, a festive pomegranate “pom-tini” for teetotalers, comforting mini chicken pot pies and indulgent desserts that keep visitors mingling.

While her guest list can number over 500 and often includes a who's who of Bravolebrities, Hilton insists that personal connection is key. “Make sure to introduce your friends to other friends so no one feels left out,” she advises. “You might say, ‘You should meet so-and-so — they love poodles, you have a poodle!’ Before you know it, they're exchanging numbers and getting together.” As for Hilton, “I'm like a bunny,” she adds with a laugh. “I hop around, enjoy different personalities, and I really like people.”