An Expert's One-Hour Entertaining Guide: Simple Hosting for Last-Minute Company
Throughout this busy period, while there's plenty going on that even vivacious people might sometimes look forward to the calm break in January, it's very easy to neglect things. I'm sure I cannot be the sole person who's ever felt surprised back to reality while at my desk by a text from a friend wondering, "What time should we come over later?" Fear not; if you're absent minded, and simply prone to spontaneous gatherings, I have your back.
The Golden Rule to Successful Gatherings
Firstly, though I cannot stress it sufficiently, whether you have organized for months or just a quarter-hour, the greatest events tend to be the easiest. What everyone expects is a good chat, something to enjoy, plus enough food so guests don't feel like gnawing their arm on the ride back. Unless you are throwing a lavish ball, nobody expects extensive drinks, fancy food and entertainers.
The most successful gatherings are the simplest. That said, an idea is useful to mask the fact you've only thrown this thing together while coming home from work.
Picking a Concept to Direct The Party Planning
Still, an overarching idea is helpful to hide that you have just put this thing on while returning home from work. And by theme, think of something like a seasonal celebration. Going slightly more specific (Scandinavian Christmas, say, with mulled wine, aromatic cocktail, cured seafood plus rye crackers, Nordic beats selection; or fiesta-style party, including holiday punch, cold beers or margaritas, and heaps of snacks, salsa & green spread, with festive music in the background) helps direct the selection during the necessary grocery run.
Smart Shopping to Support Your Party
At the shops, pick a drink or two (one alcoholic for drinkers, one not for others don't want to) and a couple of appetizers that match the theme, then buy a generous amount as you can afford, instead of fretting about providing endless options. Nothing looks more abundant and celebratory than plenty – I would always rather to arrive with a sink stocked with iced containers with affordable bubbly than a small serving with fancy bubbly. (Include several packs of ice, as well; you'll find seldom enough ice.)
Drinks and Large-Batch Drinks Made Easy
If you feel the need to demonstrate skills and serve a special beverage, then pre-mix a large batch in a container so that you're not left faffing around with preparation when it's time to enjoying yourself. Once the party begins, ask a partner or volunteer to keep an eye on the drinks then replenish as necessary till it's gone. Apply the same for the non-alcoholic punch; people love to take on a job while socializing so they can share in some of goodwill.
Regarding punch, whatever recipe you pick (you can find plenty online), steer clear of any recipe too sweet – any kids there ought to have their own drinks – and should you have one, plonk aromatic bitters within reach (avoid adding any to the bowl as they are inappropriate for individuals who do not consume drinks altogether). Make an effort in presenting it so the non-alcoholic option doesn't feel neglected; it doesn't take a short time to slice a few rounds of lemon or orange for garnish.
Nibbles That Delight With Minimal Preparation
Personally, I recommend passing on the pre-made platters of "party foods" that appear in shops at this time of year; they seem fussy, and frequently require heating things up (if you must go this route, remember that all guests quietly prefers garlic bread or mini sausages anyway). I'm convinced nothing beats several really big containers with good-quality chips (salted pleases everyone), and, provided there are no allergies, some of those large and economical packets of mixed nuts typically found with global foods at the market, with perhaps some olives without stones for color (try not to find pits around the house in the future).
If, like my mum, you think chips proper food, one big slab of good cheese on a platter alongside crackers plus artfully draped fruit tends to seem artistic. A plate featuring cured or cooked prosciutto or seafood displayed there (only one type, unless you have a large budget), or a nice store-bought pastry, similar to available at delis during festivities, is more substantial, and you really won't fail by serving artisanal slices of focaccia, because they don't need additional preparation.
