Felicity Cloake's 60-Minute Party Plan: Simple Hosting for Spontaneous Guests
Throughout the festive time, while there is plenty happening which the most lively individuals might occasionally long for the calm respite of January, it's very easy to neglect things. I believe I'm not the sole one who's ever been surprised awake at work by an inquiry from a friend asking, "What time do you want us tonight?" No worries; whether you are forgetful, or simply inclined toward spontaneous invitations, I've got you covered.
The Secret to Memorable Parties
Firstly, though I cannot stress it enough, if you have been planning for months versus just a quarter-hour, the best events tend to be the easiest. What everyone is hoping for is pleasant conversation, a drink to enjoy, and sufficient nibbles that they do not end up chewing their arm during the ride home. Unless you're Jay Gatsby, nobody anticipates a full bar, gourmet food or a live band.
The greatest parties tend to be the most basic. That said, a theme helps to disguise the fact you have only put the event together on the way back from the office.
Picking a Concept to Direct Your Shopping
That said, an overarching idea is helpful to hide that you've only thrown the party together on the way home from work. And by theme, I mean for example a seasonal celebration. Going a bit more specific (Scandinavian Christmas, say, featuring mulled wine, spiced punch, cured seafood and rye crackers, Nordic beats playlist; alternatively Latin American celebration, with holiday punch, refreshing lagers or tequila drinks, along with heaps of snacks, spicy sauce and avocado dip, with upbeat tunes on the stereo) helps direct the selection on the necessary shopping trip.
Practical Buying to Support The Gathering
In the store, choose a couple of drinks (an alcoholic option for drinkers, a non-alcoholic one for some avoid alcohol) and a few appetizers that fit the style, then purchase as much of them within your budget, rather than fretting about giving people endless options. No thing appears as generous and as festive than a bounty – I'd always rather to be welcomed by a container full of iced containers with affordable sparkling wine than a small serving with expensive champagne. (Chuck in a few bags for chilling, as well; there is seldom enough ice.)
Beverages and Party Beverages Made Easy
If you feel the need to show off and provide a mixed drink, then pre-mix a large batch in a pitcher so that you're not left faffing around with preparation when you ought to be enjoying yourself. After starting, ask a significant other or helper to keep an eye on it then top up when needed till it's finished. Follow suit with the soft drink; guests enjoy to take on a task during gatherings so they may share in some of goodwill.
Regarding punch, whichever recipe you go for (they abound via search), steer clear of any recipe too sweet – any kids there should have kid-friendly options – and should you own one, put aromatic bitters nearby (don't add them into the punch as they are not suitable for people who avoid drinks altogether). Make an effort with presentation so that the non-alcoholic option isn't perceived neglected; just spend a minute to cut a few rounds of citrus into the bowl.
Snacks That Work With Minimal Preparation
For me, I would avoid the store-bought trays of "party foods" that appear in supermarkets seasonally; they feel fussy, and usually require using the oven (should you go this route, remember that everyone truly prefers garlic bread and/or cocktail sausages anyway). It's my firm opinion you can't beat a couple of sizable dishes of tasty crisps (salted pleases everyone), and, provided there are no issues, some of those large and economical bags with nuts typically found in the international aisle of supermarkets, with perhaps some ready-to-eat olives for colour (it's best to avoid to discover stones in odd places in the future).
If, similar to some, you feel chips substantial fare, one large piece of good cheese on a platter with crackers and some artfully draped fruit tends to seem visually appealing. A plate featuring salted or prepared salami or salmon displayed on it (just one sort, unless you're wealthy), alternatively a nice store-bought pastry, like those that pop up on deli counters seasonally, is more filling, while you really can't go wrong with homestyle chunks of Italian bread, because they don't need additional preparation.
