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In this busy season, when there is a lot happening which even lively people might occasionally look forward to a calm break of January, it's all too easy to forget details. I'm sure I'm not the only one who has ever felt jolted awake while at work because of a message from someone asking, "What time are we expected over later?" Fear not; if you are forgetful, and simply inclined toward impromptu plans, I've got you covered.

The Secret to Great Parties

Firstly, though I can't emphasize it sufficiently, if you have been planning for a year versus just a short while, the best events tend to be the most straightforward. All everyone expects are engaging talks, something to enjoy, plus enough food so guests do not end up chewing something on the ride back. If you're not you're a fictional millionaire, nobody expects extensive drinks, Michelin-starred food and entertainers.

The greatest gatherings are the easiest. Still, an idea helps to disguise the reality you have only put this thing on on the way home from work.

Choosing a Concept to Focus Your Party Planning

Still, an overarching idea is helpful to conceal the fact you've just put this thing together on the way home from work. And with a theme, I mean such as the holidays. Getting a bit more specific (Scandinavian Christmas, say, with mulled wine, spiced punch, cured seafood plus crispbreads, folk tunes selection; alternatively Latin American celebration, with ponche navideño, chilled brews or margaritas, along with heaps of corn chips, salsa and avocado dip, with festive music playing) helps direct your options on the necessary supermarket sweep.

Strategic Shopping to Support The Event

While shopping, pick a drink or two (one alcoholic for drinkers, a non-alcoholic one for some don't want to) and a couple of snacks that match the style, then buy a generous amount as possible, instead of stressing over giving people a wide selection. Nothing appears more abundant and as festive as plenty – I'd always prefer to enter with a container stocked with chilled bottles with affordable sparkling wine than a single glass of swanky bubbly. (Chuck in a few bags of cubes, as well; there is seldom enough ice.)

Cocktails & Punch Streamlined

Should you show off and serve a cocktail, make sure to prepare ahead a big quantity in a pitcher so you aren't left busying yourself with preparation when it's time to socializing. Once the party begins, ask a significant other or friend to monitor it and top up when needed till it's finished. Do the same with the alcohol-free option; people love to have a role while socializing allowing them to experience the goodwill.

On the punch front, whatever formula you go for (there are many on the internet), skip anything overly sugary – young ones present need separate beverages – and should it's available, plonk a bottle of bitters nearby (don't add any to the bowl as they're inappropriate for those who avoid drinks altogether). Make an effort with presentation so that the non-alcoholic option doesn't seem neglected; just spend a moment to slice some slices of citrus to the punch.

Nibbles That Shine Without Fuss

For me, I recommend passing on the readymade trays with "party foods" available at grocery stores during the holidays; they feel fussy, and usually involve using the oven (if you must opt for these, know that all guests truly prefers garlic bread and/or small hot dogs regardless). I'm convinced it's hard to top a couple of large bowls with decent snacks (plain salted pleases everyone), and, provided there are no dietary restrictions, some of those big and excellent value bags with nuts often sold with global foods in stores, and maybe some olives without stones for color (you don't want to still be finding pits in odd places months later).

In case, similar to some, you don't consider chips proper food, one large piece of quality cheese on a board alongside crackers plus elegantly arranged fruit always looks visually appealing. A serving dish with some salted or prepared salami or salmon laid out on it (a single variety, except if money is no object), alternatively a nice store-bought pastry, of the type available on deli counters seasonally, proves more substantial, while you really won't fail with artisanal pieces of flatbread, since there's no need for additional preparation.

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