Felicity Cloake's 60-Minute Entertaining Guide: Simple Entertaining for Unexpected Guests

Throughout the busy time, when there's so much going on that even energetic people may sometimes look forward to a calm break of January, it is very easy to overlook things. I believe I'm not the sole one who has once been jolted awake while at work because of a message from a friend asking, "What time should we come us later?" Don't worry; if you are distracted, and just likely to make spontaneous gatherings, I've got some solutions.

The Secret to Memorable Parties

Firstly, and I cannot stress it enough, if you have been planning for a year versus just a short while, the most enjoyable events tend to be the simplest. All everyone expects is a good chat, a drink to drink, and enough nibbles that guests do not end up gnawing something on the bus back. Unless you're Jay Gatsby, no one anticipates extensive drinks, fancy catering or a live band.

The greatest gatherings tend to be the simplest. That said, a concept is useful to disguise the fact you have just put the event on on the way after a long day.

Choosing a Concept to Focus The Party Planning

That said, an overarching idea is helpful for disguising the fact you've just thrown this thing on on the way from the office. And by theme, I mean for example Christmas. Getting a bit focused (Nordic holidays, for instance, featuring spiced drink, spiced punch, fish snacks and rye crackers, folk tunes selection; or Mexican Christmas, with traditional drink, refreshing lagers or margaritas, along with plenty of snacks, tomato dip & guacamole, and upbeat tunes on the stereo) will focus your choices on the upcoming shopping trip.

Smart Buying for The Gathering

At the shops, pick one or two beverages (one alcoholic for drinkers, one not in case some don't want to) and some nibbles that fit the theme, then buy a generous amount within your budget, rather than worrying about offering guests a wide selection. No thing appears more welcoming and as festive as abundance – I'd consistently prefer to be welcomed with a sink filled with iced containers with competitively priced bubbly over one glass of expensive bubbly. (Include some bags for chilling, too; you'll find seldom plenty of ice.)

Beverages and Party Beverages Streamlined

Should you demonstrate skills and serve a special beverage, make sure to pre-mix a large batch in a jug so that you aren't left faffing around with it when it's time to socializing. After starting, ask a close friend or helper to keep an eye on the drinks then replenish if required until it's finished. Apply the same with the non-alcoholic punch; guests appreciate to have a role at a party allowing them to enjoy a share of positive vibes.

For large-batch drinks, whatever mix you go for (there are many via search), steer clear of any recipe excessively sweet – any kids there should have separate beverages – and if you own one, put flavor enhancers nearby (avoid adding any in the mix since they're not suitable for individuals abstaining from alcohol entirely). Make an effort with presentation so the non-alcoholic option doesn't feel unimportant; it only takes a short time to add some slices of lemon or orange for garnish.

Snacks That Shine Without Effort

In my view, I would avoid the readymade trays with "party foods" available at grocery stores at this time of year; they come across as overly complicated, and usually involve turning the oven on (should you opt for these, know that everyone quietly prefers herb bread and/or mini sausages regardless). I truly believe you can't beat two large containers with good-quality snacks (plain salted will offend no one), and, provided there are no allergies, one of those large and economical containers of mixed nuts available in the international aisle in stores, with perhaps some ready-to-eat olives as a garnish (you don't want to still be finding pits in odd places months later).

If, like my mum, you feel crisps real food, a single large piece of good cheese on a board alongside crackers and some artfully draped fruit often appears painterly. A platter with some preserved or ready-to-eat salami or salmon arranged there (only one type, except if money is no object), alternatively a handsome pre-made pie, of the type that appear at delis seasonally, is more satisfying, and you really will succeed by serving homestyle pieces of Italian bread, since there's no need for spreading butter.

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