Felicity Cloake's One-Hour Party Plan: Effortless Hosting for Last-Minute Company

During the busy season, while there is so much happening that the most lively individuals might occasionally look forward to the quiet respite of January, it is very simple to overlook details. I expect I cannot be the sole person who has ever felt surprised awake at my desk because of a text by someone asking, "What time are we expected us later?" Don't worry; if you're forgetful, or simply likely to make spontaneous gatherings, I have some solutions.

The Golden Rule to Successful Get-Togethers

First and foremost, though I can't stress this sufficiently, if you have been planning for a year or just a quarter-hour, the most enjoyable parties tend to be the most straightforward. What anyone is hoping for is pleasant conversation, something to enjoy, and enough food so guests don't feel like gnawing an arm off during the ride back. If you're not you're Jay Gatsby, nobody anticipates a full bar, Michelin-starred catering and a live band.

The most successful parties are the easiest. Still, an idea helps to cover up the fact you have just put this thing together while coming home from work.

Choosing a Style to Guide Your Party Planning

That said, an overarching idea can be useful to hide the fact you've just put this thing on while returning home from work. And with a theme, think of such as a seasonal celebration. Going a bit more specific (Swedish-style festivities, for instance, with glögg, warm beverage, smoked fish plus rye crackers, Scandinavian music selection; or Mexican Christmas, including holiday punch, cold beers and cocktails, along with heaps of tortilla chips, salsa and green spread, and festive music on the stereo) will focus your options during the inevitable shopping trip.

Practical Buying to Support The Gathering

At the shops, pick a couple of drinks (an alcoholic option if you drink, one not in case others avoid alcohol) plus a few nibbles that match the theme, and get a generous amount as you can afford, instead of stressing over providing endless options. Nothing appears more abundant and as festive than plenty – I would always rather to be welcomed with a tub full of iced containers of affordable crémant or cava over a single glass of fancy champagne. (Add several packs of ice, too; there is seldom sufficient ice.)

Drinks and Punch Streamlined

Should you show off and serve a special beverage, then pre-mix a big quantity in a container so that you aren't stuck busying yourself with drinks while it's time to socializing. Once underway, ask a close friend or helper to watch it then replenish as necessary till it runs out. Follow suit for the alcohol-free option; guests love to have a job at a party so they may enjoy a share of positive vibes.

On the punch front, whatever formula you pick (you can find plenty online), steer clear of any recipe too sweet – children there need separate beverages – and if you have one, plonk flavor enhancers within reach (avoid adding them into the punch as they're unsafe for individuals who do not consume drinks entirely). Make an effort with presentation so that the non-alcoholic option isn't perceived like an afterthought; it only takes a moment to slice a few rounds of lemon or orange for garnish.

Snacks That Delight Without Preparation

For me, I would avoid the pre-made trays with "party foods" available in shops at this time of year; they feel fussy, and frequently require turning the oven on (if you must do this, know that everyone quietly likes toasted bread and/or cocktail sausages regardless). It's my firm opinion it's hard to top a couple of sizable dishes with tasty crisps (salted will offend no one), and, assuming no dietary restrictions, one of those great-value containers with nuts typically found with global foods of supermarkets, with perhaps some pitted olives for colour (you don't want to find stones in your pot plants next Easter).

If, similar to some, you don't consider crisps real food, a single sizeable chunk of good cheese served simply and crispbreads plus artfully draped fruit often appears visually appealing. A platter with some preserved or ready-to-eat salami or salmon displayed on it (just one sort, except if you have a large budget), alternatively a handsome ready-made tart, similar to available on deli counters seasonally, is even more satisfying, and you truly won't fail by serving rustic pieces of flatbread, because there's no need for spreading butter.

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