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In the festive season, while there is so much happening which even vivacious people may sometimes anticipate a quiet respite of January, it is very easy to neglect details. I believe I'm not the sole one who's ever felt surprised back to reality at work by an inquiry from a friend asking, "What time do you want over later?" Don't worry; whether you are forgetful, and just inclined toward last-minute gatherings, I have your back.

The Key to Memorable Parties

Firstly, though I can't emphasize it enough, whether you have planned for a year versus just a quarter-hour, the greatest events tend to be the simplest. What everyone really wants are pleasant conversation, a drink to drink, and sufficient food so they do not end up chewing an arm off during the bus back. If you're not you are throwing a lavish ball, nobody anticipates extensive drinks, gourmet catering and musical performances.

The greatest gatherings are the simplest. However, an idea is useful to disguise the fact you've only put the event on while coming home from work.

Choosing a Theme to Direct Your Party Planning

Nevertheless, an overarching idea works well for disguising the fact you have only thrown this thing on while returning home from work. And with a theme, think of something like Christmas. Getting a bit more detailed (Swedish-style festivities, say, with glögg, spiced punch, cured seafood plus rye crackers, Nordic beats selection; alternatively Mexican Christmas, with traditional drink, chilled brews and margaritas, along with lots of tortilla chips, salsa & guacamole, with Luis Miguel on the stereo) will focus your options on the necessary supermarket sweep.

Smart Buying for Your Party

At the shops, choose one or two beverages (an alcoholic option if you drink, a non-alcoholic one in case others don't want to) and a few nibbles suited to your concept, and purchase as many as possible, rather than fretting about giving people too much choice. Nothing looks more abundant and celebratory than a bounty – I'd always prefer to enter with a tub filled with cold bottles of affordable crémant or cava than a small serving with swanky bubbly. (Add a few bags of cubes, as well; there is seldom sufficient ice.)

Beverages & Large-Batch Drinks Made Easy

Should you show off and provide a cocktail, then mix in advance a big quantity in a container so that you aren't stuck faffing around with preparation while it's time to having fun. Once underway, enlist a close friend or volunteer to monitor the drinks then refill if required till it's gone. Apply the same for the alcohol-free option; people love to have a role while socializing allowing them to share in some of goodwill.

For large-batch drinks, whichever recipe you go for (they abound on the internet), skip any recipe excessively sweet – any kids there should have kid-friendly options – and should you have one, put a bottle of bitters nearby (don't add any in the mix since they are unsafe for people who do not consume alcohol entirely). Take care in presenting it so that the alcohol-free drink doesn't seem like an afterthought; it doesn't take a moment to cut some slices of fruit into the bowl.

Food That Shine With Minimal Preparation

In my view, I would avoid the pre-made trays with "party foods" that appear in supermarkets at this time of year; they feel fussy, and often require using the oven (if you must go this route, know that everyone truly likes toasted bread or small hot dogs regardless). I'm convinced it's hard to top a couple of sizable dishes of decent chips (simple will offend no one), and, provided there are no issues, one of those large and economical bags of mixed nuts available with global foods at the market, and maybe a few olives without stones as a garnish (it's best to avoid to discover pits around the house in the future).

If, similar to some, you don't consider chips proper food, one big slab of quality cheese on a platter and crispbreads and some elegantly arranged fruit tends to seem artistic. A plate featuring cured or cooked meats or fish laid out on it (a single variety, except if you have a large budget), alternatively a handsome pre-made tart, like those that pop up at delis seasonally, proves more satisfying, and you really can't go wrong with homestyle slices of focaccia, since there's no need for spreading butter.

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