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During this busy season, while there's a lot going on that even energetic people may sometimes look forward to the quiet respite of January, it's very simple to overlook things. I'm sure I'm not the only person who has once been surprised awake at work because of a text from a friend asking, "What time do you want over later?" No worries; whether you are forgetful, or simply inclined toward last-minute invitations, I have some solutions.

The Secret to Great Get-Togethers

Firstly, and I cannot emphasize it sufficiently, whether you've organized for a year or only a short while, the most enjoyable events are the easiest. All everyone is hoping for are engaging talks, something to enjoy, and sufficient nibbles so guests don't end up chewing something during the bus home. If you're not you are throwing a lavish ball, nobody expects professional bartending, gourmet catering or entertainers.

The best gatherings tend to be the most basic. However, a theme helps to cover up the fact you've just put the event on while coming after a long day.

Selecting a Concept to Direct The Shopping

Still, an overarching idea can be useful to hide that you've only thrown this thing together while returning from the office. By concept, think of something like Christmas. Going slightly more detailed (Swedish-style festivities, say, featuring mulled wine, aromatic cocktail, cured seafood plus rye crackers, folk tunes playlist; or fiesta-style party, including ponche navideño, chilled brews or margaritas, along with lots of corn chips, spicy sauce & guacamole, with upbeat tunes playing) will focus your options on the necessary supermarket sweep.

Practical Purchasing to Support Your Gathering

In the store, choose one or two beverages (an alcoholic option if you drink, one not for some don't want to) and a couple of snacks suited to the theme, and buy as much of them as you can afford, rather than fretting about providing too much choice. Nothing looks as generous and celebratory as plenty – I would consistently prefer to be welcomed by a container filled with chilled bottles of reasonably priced sparkling wine over a single glass of expensive bubbly. (Chuck in a few bags for chilling, too; you'll find seldom plenty of ice.)

Cocktails and Party Beverages Made Easy

If you must demonstrate skills and provide a special beverage, then pre-mix a sizable amount in a container so that you're not left faffing around with it when it's time to having fun. Once underway, enlist a significant other or volunteer to monitor the drinks and top up as necessary until it's gone. Follow suit for the soft drink; guests love to take on a role during gatherings so they can share in a share of positive vibes.

For large-batch drinks, whatever formula you choose (there are many on the internet), avoid anything too sweet – young ones present ought to have separate beverages – and if it's available, place a bottle of bitters close by (refrain from putting any into the punch since they're unsafe for individuals who do not consume alcohol altogether). Make an effort with how it looks so the soft punch isn't perceived neglected; it doesn't take a short time to cut some slices of lemon or orange for garnish.

Food That Shine Without Effort

In my view, I would avoid the readymade trays with "party foods" that pop up in shops at this time of year; they come across as overly complicated, and frequently involve using the oven (if you choose to do this, be aware that all guests quietly likes toasted bread and/or mini sausages anyway). It's my firm opinion nothing beats several large bowls of tasty chips (plain salted pleases everyone), and, provided there are no issues, a package of great-value packets of nuts typically found in the international aisle of supermarkets, and maybe some pitted olives for color (it's best to avoid to discover stones around the house next Easter).

In case, like my mum, you feel snacks real food, one big slab of quality cheese on a platter alongside crackers plus artfully draped fruit always looks visually appealing. A platter with some preserved or ready-to-eat salami or salmon arranged there (a single variety, unless money is no object), or an attractive store-bought pastry, of the type available in specialty sections during festivities, proves more filling, and you really won't fail by serving rustic slices of Italian bread, since they don't need additional preparation.

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