1. Bake or purchase a variety of holiday cookies including sugar cookies, gingerbread men, biscotti, and crinkles

2. Allow all baked cookies to cool completely before decorating or arranging

3. Decorate cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, edible glitter, and candy details

4. Place a large wooden board or tray on your work surface and line with parchment paper

5. Arrange the largest cookies first as anchors, spacing them evenly

6. Cluster similar cookies together but alternate colors and textures for balance

7. Fill gaps with smaller cookies, candies, and mini treats like marshmallows and truffles

8. Add rosemary sprigs or mint for a pop of green and seasonal fragrance

9. Tuck candy canes and peppermint bark pieces between clusters for festive accents

10. If assembling ahead, cover loosely with plastic wrap and add delicate items just before serving

11. Replenish cookies from airtight containers as guests help themselves

12. Serve with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or coffee alongside the board