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In this busy period, while there's plenty going on that even energetic people might occasionally look forward to the calm respite in January, it is very simple to overlook things. I'm sure I cannot be the sole person who's ever been startled back to reality at work by a message by a friend wondering, "What time are we expected over later?" Fear not; whether you're distracted, or simply inclined toward impromptu invitations, I have some solutions.

The Secret to Successful Parties

Above all, though I can't emphasize this enough, if you've been planning for months versus only a quarter-hour, the most enjoyable parties tend to be the easiest. All everyone is hoping for is engaging talks, something to drink, and sufficient nibbles so they don't end up chewing their arm during the ride home. If you're not you are Jay Gatsby, nobody expects extensive drinks, gourmet food and musical performances.

The most successful gatherings are the simplest. Still, a theme helps to mask the fact you have just put the party on on the way after a long day.

Picking a Theme to Focus The Preparations

That said, a theme can be useful to conceal the fact you have just thrown this thing together while returning after work. By concept, I mean such as a seasonal celebration. Getting slightly more specific (Scandinavian Christmas, say, with glögg, spiced punch, fish snacks plus flatbreads, Nordic beats selection; or Mexican Christmas, with ponche navideño, chilled brews and tequila drinks, along with plenty of corn chips, salsa & avocado dip, with festive music in the background) can narrow your choices during the inevitable shopping trip.

Smart Purchasing to Support The Party

At the shops, pick one or two beverages (an alcoholic option if you drink, one not in case some prefer not to) and a few snacks suited to your concept, then buy as many as you can afford, rather than fretting about giving people a wide selection. Nothing looks more abundant and celebratory as plenty – I would always rather to be welcomed with a tub full of iced containers of affordable sparkling wine over a single glass with expensive champagne. (Add a few bags of ice, as well; there is never plenty of ice.)

Cocktails & Large-Batch Drinks Simplified

If you feel the need to show off and provide a cocktail, then pre-mix a sizable amount in a container so that you're not stuck messing about with drinks while it's time to having fun. After starting, request a partner or friend to monitor the drinks then top up when needed till it's gone. Do the same for the soft drink; people enjoy to take on a role at a party so they can share in some of festive spirit.

On the punch front, whichever formula you choose (you can find plenty via search), steer clear of anything too sweet – children there need separate beverages – and if you own one, place flavor enhancers close by (don't add any to the bowl since they're not suitable for those who avoid drinks entirely). Put in some work in presenting it so that the non-alcoholic option doesn't seem unimportant; it doesn't take a short time to slice some slices of fruit to the punch.

Nibbles That Work With Minimal Effort

For me, I would avoid the readymade trays of "party foods" that pop up in supermarkets at this time of year; they seem fancy, and usually involve heating things up (if you must opt for these, know that everyone truly prefers herb bread or small hot dogs anyway). It's my firm opinion it's hard to top a couple of large containers of good-quality chips (salted will offend no one), plus, assuming no issues, a package of great-value containers with nuts typically found in the international aisle at the market, and maybe a few ready-to-eat olives as a garnish (try not to find stones around the house next Easter).

If, similar to some, you think chips substantial fare, a single big slab of tasty cheese on a platter with crackers plus beautifully placed grapes always looks painterly. A platter featuring preserved or ready-to-eat prosciutto or seafood laid out on it (just one sort, except if you have a large budget), or an attractive store-bought pastry, like those that appear on deli counters during festivities, is more substantial, while you truly won't fail with homestyle slices of Italian bread, since there's no need for buttering.

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