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In the festive period, when there's plenty going on that the most energetic people might occasionally long for the quiet respite in the new year, it is very simple to overlook details. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's ever felt surprised back to reality at work by an inquiry by someone asking, "What time are we expected over later?" Fear not; if you're forgetful, or just prone to spontaneous plans, I have some solutions.

The Golden Rule to Great Parties

Above all, though I can't emphasize this sufficiently, if you've been planning long in advance or only a quarter-hour, the best parties tend to be the simplest. What everyone expects is pleasant conversation, something to enjoy, and sufficient nibbles so they don't end up gnawing their arm on the ride back. Unless you're throwing a lavish ball, no one expects a full bar, fancy catering or a live band.

The best parties are the simplest. Still, an idea helps to disguise the reality you've just put the party together while coming back from the office.

Selecting a Concept to Guide Your Preparations

That said, a theme is helpful to conceal that you've just put the party on while returning home from work. By concept, I mean such as the holidays. Going slightly focused (Swedish-style festivities, for instance, with mulled wine, warm beverage, smoked fish and flatbreads, Scandinavian music playlist; or fiesta-style party, with traditional drink, refreshing lagers and margaritas, and heaps of tortilla chips, spicy sauce and guacamole, with upbeat tunes in the background) will focus your options during the inevitable shopping trip.

Smart Buying to Support The Event

At the shops, pick one or two beverages (an alcoholic option if you drink, a non-alcoholic one for others don't want to) plus a few appetizers that match your concept, then get as many as you can afford, rather than stressing over giving people a wide selection. No thing appears as generous and as festive than a bounty – I'd consistently prefer to enter by a tub stocked with iced containers of affordable bubbly than a small serving with expensive bubbly. (Chuck in some bags of ice, as well; you'll find never sufficient ice.)

Drinks & Punch Streamlined

If you feel the need to show off and offer a mixed drink, then prepare ahead a sizable amount in a container so that you aren't left busying yourself with it while you should be having fun. After starting, request a close friend or friend to keep an eye on the drinks and refill when needed until it's finished. Do the same for the non-alcoholic punch; people love to have a job during gatherings so they may enjoy the festive spirit.

Regarding punch, whatever mix you go for (you can find plenty via search), steer clear of any recipe excessively sweet – young ones there ought to have their own drinks – and if you own one, plonk a bottle of bitters close by (don't add them to the bowl since they're unsafe for those who avoid alcohol altogether). Make an effort in presenting it so the non-alcoholic option doesn't feel unimportant; just spend a minute to cut some slices of citrus into the bowl.

Food That Shine With Minimal Effort

For me, I recommend passing on the readymade assortments with "party foods" that pop up in shops during the holidays; they seem overly complicated, and frequently require heating things up (should you do this, be aware that all guests quietly likes garlic bread or small hot dogs anyway). It's my firm opinion nothing beats two large containers of good-quality crisps (simple pleases everyone), plus, assuming no dietary restrictions, a package of large and economical packets of mixed nuts available in the South Asian section of supermarkets, and maybe a few ready-to-eat olives for colour (try not to still be finding pits in odd places months later).

If, as my mother says, you think crisps real food, one sizeable chunk of quality cheese on a platter with crackers plus artfully draped fruit always looks visually appealing. A serving dish featuring preserved or ready-to-eat meats or fish arranged on it (a single variety, unless you have a large budget), or a handsome store-bought pie, like those that pop up on deli counters at this time of year, proves more filling, while you truly can't go wrong by serving artisanal pieces of focaccia, since there's no need for additional preparation.

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