Felicity Cloake's 60-Minute Party Plan: Effortless Hosting for Last-Minute Company
Throughout the busy season, while there is plenty happening which the most energetic people may sometimes long for a calm respite of the new year, it's very easy to neglect details. I'm sure I cannot be the only person who's once felt startled awake while at my desk by an inquiry from a friend wondering, "What time should we come over later?" Don't worry; whether you're forgetful, and simply prone to impromptu plans, I have you covered.
The Secret to Memorable Get-Togethers
Firstly, though I cannot stress it sufficiently, whether you've organized for a year versus just a quarter-hour, the most enjoyable parties tend to be the simplest. All everyone expects are pleasant conversation, a drink to drink, and enough to eat that guests do not end up gnawing an arm off during the ride home. If you're not you are a fictional millionaire, no one expects a full bar, Michelin-starred food and a live band.
The most successful parties are the most basic. However, a concept is useful to disguise the reality you've only thrown the party on on the way after a long day.
Selecting a Theme to Guide The Party Planning
That said, a theme is helpful to conceal the fact you've just put the party on on the way home from work. And by theme, I mean for example the holidays. Going slightly more specific (Swedish-style festivities, say, featuring glögg, aromatic cocktail, fish snacks and flatbreads, Scandinavian music selection; or fiesta-style party, with traditional drink, chilled brews and margaritas, along with lots of corn chips, salsa & guacamole, and upbeat tunes on the stereo) helps direct the selection on the necessary grocery run.
Smart Purchasing for The Event
In the store, select a drink or two (one alcoholic for drinkers, a non-alcoholic one in case others prefer not to) and a couple of appetizers suited to the style, and purchase a generous amount as possible, rather than fretting about giving people endless options. No thing looks as generous and as festive as a bounty – I would always rather to arrive by a container filled with cold bottles of reasonably priced sparkling wine than a small serving of swanky bubbly. (Chuck in some bags for chilling, as well; there is never plenty of ice.)
Beverages and Party Beverages Simplified
If you feel the need to impress and offer a cocktail, then mix in advance a large batch in a jug so that you're not stuck faffing around with preparation while you ought to be socializing. Once the party begins, request a significant other or friend to keep an eye on it then refill when needed till it's gone. Follow suit for the non-alcoholic punch; people love to be given a role during gatherings so they can experience a share of goodwill.
For large-batch drinks, whichever mix you go for (there are many via search), avoid anything overly sugary – children present ought to have their own drinks – and if you own one, place a bottle of bitters close by (avoid adding them in the mix since they are unsafe for individuals who do not consume alcohol altogether). Put in some work in presenting it so that the non-alcoholic option doesn't feel neglected; it only takes a minute to cut a few rounds of fruit for garnish.
Food That Delight With Minimal Effort
Personally, I would avoid the pre-made platters of "party foods" that pop up in supermarkets seasonally; they seem overly complicated, and usually require using the oven (should you go this route, know that all guests quietly prefers toasted bread or mini sausages regardless). It's my firm opinion it's hard to top several large dishes with good-quality snacks (salted is universally liked), and, assuming no dietary restrictions, a package of large and economical bags of nuts typically found in the international aisle in stores, along with a few olives without stones for colour (it's best to avoid to find stones around the house next Easter).
If, similar to some, you think crisps proper food, one sizeable chunk of quality cheese served simply alongside crackers plus artfully draped grapes often appears visually appealing. A plate featuring preserved or ready-to-eat salami or salmon displayed there (only one type, unless you have a large budget), or an attractive store-bought tart, similar to that appear at delis at this time of year, is more filling, while you really can't go wrong by serving artisanal pieces of focaccia, because they require no buttering.
