Felicity Cloake's Quick-Fire Party Plan: Effortless Entertaining for Last-Minute Visitors
In this festive season, when there's plenty going on which the most energetic people may sometimes long for a quiet break of January, it's very simple to forget things. I believe I cannot be the only one who has ever felt surprised back to reality while at my desk by a text from a friend asking, "What time are we expected over tonight?" Don't worry; if you are distracted, or simply prone to impromptu plans, I've got some solutions.
The Secret to Memorable Parties
First and foremost, though I cannot emphasize this enough, whether you've planned for a year versus only a quarter-hour, the greatest events tend to be the simplest. All anyone expects is a good chat, a drink to sip, and sufficient nibbles that guests do not end up gnawing their arm during the ride home. If you're not you are a fictional millionaire, no one anticipates professional bartending, Michelin-starred catering or musical performances.
The greatest parties are the most basic. That said, a concept helps to cover up the fact you have only thrown the party together while coming after a long day.
Choosing a Concept to Guide Your Shopping
Still, a theme is helpful to hide that you have just put this thing on while returning from the office. And by theme, I mean such as a seasonal celebration. Going slightly focused (Scandinavian Christmas, for instance, with spiced drink, warm beverage, fish snacks plus crispbreads, Nordic beats playlist; alternatively fiesta-style party, with traditional drink, cold beers and tequila drinks, and plenty of snacks, tomato dip and avocado dip, and festive music on the stereo) helps direct the selection during the upcoming shopping trip.
Smart Buying to Support Your Gathering
In the store, select a drink or two (one alcoholic if you drink, a non-alcoholic one for others avoid alcohol) and some snacks that match the theme, and purchase as many as possible, rather than stressing over providing a wide selection. Nothing looks as generous and cheerful as plenty – I would always prefer to arrive with a sink filled with chilled bottles with affordable sparkling wine than a single glass of expensive champagne. (Chuck in some bags of cubes, as well; there is never enough ice.)
Drinks & Party Beverages Made Easy
If you must demonstrate skills and provide a special beverage, then pre-mix a large batch in a jug so you aren't stuck faffing around with it while you should be having fun. Once underway, ask a partner or helper to monitor the drinks then replenish when needed until it's finished. Do the same with the non-alcoholic punch; people love to be given a role while socializing so they may share in a share of festive spirit.
On the punch front, whatever formula you pick (they abound on the internet), avoid any recipe too sweet – young ones there should have kid-friendly options – and if it's available, put a bottle of bitters close by (refrain from putting them in the mix as they're unsafe for people who avoid drinks entirely). Make an effort in presenting it so that the non-alcoholic option isn't perceived unimportant; it doesn't take a short time to cut a few rounds of lemon or orange for garnish.
Food That Delight With Minimal Fuss
For me, I would avoid the pre-made assortments with "party foods" that pop up in supermarkets at this time of year; they seem fussy, and frequently involve using the oven (if you must opt for these, be aware that all guests secretly favors garlic bread or cocktail sausages regardless). It's my firm opinion nothing beats several really big dishes of tasty chips (simple will offend no one), plus, provided there are no allergies, some of those large and economical bags of nuts typically found with global foods of supermarkets, with perhaps some pitted olives as a garnish (it's best to avoid to discover stones in your pot plants in the future).
In case, similar to some, you think crisps proper food, one large piece of tasty cheese served simply with crackers plus beautifully placed grapes tends to seem visually appealing. A platter with some cured or cooked meats or fish laid out there (a single variety, except if money is no object), or an attractive pre-made pastry, similar to available at delis at this time of year, is more filling, while you really won't fail with homestyle slices of flatbread, since there's no need for additional preparation.