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In the holiday season, when there's so much going on that even lively people may occasionally anticipate a quiet break in January, it is all too simple to neglect details. I'm sure I cannot be the only one who has once been startled back to reality while at work by a message from someone asking, "What time are we expected over tonight?" No worries; whether you're forgetful, and just prone to spontaneous invitations, I have you covered.

The Golden Rule to Memorable Gatherings

First and foremost, though I can't stress it sufficiently, if you have been planning long in advance versus only a quarter-hour, the best parties tend to be the simplest. What everyone really wants are engaging talks, something to drink, plus sufficient to eat that guests do not feel like chewing an arm off during the ride back. Unless you're Jay Gatsby, no one expects a full bar, gourmet food and entertainers.

The best gatherings tend to be the simplest. Still, an idea helps to disguise the fact you've just thrown the event on on the way after a long day.

Choosing a Style to Guide The Preparations

That said, an overarching idea can be useful to hide the fact you have only put this thing together on the way after work. And by theme, I mean something like Christmas. Getting slightly more detailed (Swedish-style festivities, for instance, with spiced drink, spiced punch, smoked fish plus crispbreads, Nordic beats selection; alternatively Latin American celebration, including holiday punch, refreshing lagers or tequila drinks, and lots of corn chips, salsa and avocado dip, and Luis Miguel in the background) can narrow the selection during the necessary shopping trip.

Smart Shopping to Support Your Party

While shopping, select one or two beverages (one alcoholic for drinkers, one not in case others prefer not to) plus a few appetizers that match the theme, then purchase as much of them as possible, rather than fretting about offering guests a wide selection. Nothing appears more welcoming and as festive than plenty – I'd always prefer to enter with a sink stocked with iced containers of competitively priced sparkling wine over one glass of fancy champagne. (Chuck in several packs of cubes, too; you'll find never enough ice.)

Cocktails & Punch Simplified

If you must show off and provide a cocktail, then pre-mix a large batch in a pitcher so that you aren't stuck busying yourself with preparation while it's time to having fun. After starting, enlist a significant other or friend to monitor the drinks then top up as necessary till it's gone. Do the same for the non-alcoholic punch; people love to have a role while socializing so they can share in a share of goodwill.

For large-batch drinks, whatever formula you pick (they abound on the internet), avoid any recipe excessively sweet – any kids present should have separate beverages – and if you own one, place a bottle of bitters close by (avoid adding any into the punch as they're unsafe for individuals who avoid alcohol entirely). Make an effort with presentation so that the alcohol-free drink isn't perceived neglected; it doesn't take a moment to cut several pieces of lemon or orange into the bowl.

Food That Work With Minimal Preparation

Personally, I would avoid the pre-made platters of "party foods" available in shops during the holidays; they seem overly complicated, and frequently require turning the oven on (should you go this route, know that all guests secretly likes toasted bread and/or mini sausages regardless). I truly believe you can't beat several large bowls with tasty crisps (salted pleases everyone), plus, provided there are no dietary restrictions, one of those big and excellent value bags of nuts typically found in the South Asian section of supermarkets, and maybe a few ready-to-eat olives as a garnish (you don't want to find pits in odd places in the future).

In case, similar to some, you feel chips proper food, a single big slab of tasty cheese served simply and crispbreads plus elegantly arranged fruit tends to seem artistic. A platter featuring cured or cooked salami or salmon laid out there (a single variety, except if you have a large budget), or an attractive ready-made tart, similar to available at delis during festivities, proves more satisfying, and you truly will succeed by serving rustic slices of flatbread, because there's no need for buttering.

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