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Throughout the festive period, when there is so much going on that even lively people might occasionally long for a quiet respite in the new year, it's all too simple to forget details. I believe I cannot be the only person who's ever felt surprised awake while at my desk because of an inquiry from someone asking, "What time are we expected over tonight?" Don't worry; whether you are absent minded, or simply inclined toward spontaneous plans, I have some solutions.

The Secret to Memorable Gatherings

First and foremost, though I can't emphasize this enough, if you've been planning for months versus just 15 minutes, the most enjoyable parties tend to be the simplest. What everyone really wants is pleasant conversation, something to enjoy, and enough nibbles that they don't end up gnawing their arm during the ride home. Unless you are Jay Gatsby, nobody anticipates extensive drinks, gourmet catering or musical performances.

The best gatherings tend to be the simplest. Still, an idea is useful to cover up the fact you have only thrown this thing together on the way back from the office.

Selecting a Theme to Direct Your Preparations

That said, a theme is helpful to conceal that you have just thrown this thing on while returning after work. And by theme, I mean for example a seasonal celebration. Going a bit focused (Scandinavian Christmas, say, featuring mulled wine, spiced punch, smoked fish and flatbreads, folk tunes playlist; or Latin American celebration, including ponche navideño, cold beers or tequila drinks, and plenty of snacks, salsa and avocado dip, and festive music in the background) can narrow your choices on the necessary grocery run.

Smart Buying for The Gathering

At the shops, choose a couple of drinks (an alcoholic option for drinkers, a non-alcoholic one for others don't want to) plus a few appetizers that match the style, and buy as many within your budget, instead of stressing over giving people endless options. Nothing looks more welcoming and cheerful than abundance – I would consistently rather to be welcomed with a container full of iced containers with competitively priced bubbly over one glass with expensive bubbly. (Chuck in a few bags of ice, as well; you'll find never plenty of ice.)

Cocktails & Party Beverages Streamlined

If you feel the need to demonstrate skills and provide a cocktail, then mix in advance a large batch in a pitcher so you aren't left messing about with drinks when it's time to enjoying yourself. After starting, enlist a partner or helper to monitor the drinks then top up if required until it's gone. Follow suit with the non-alcoholic punch; guests enjoy to be given a task during gatherings allowing them to enjoy a share of festive spirit.

For large-batch drinks, whichever formula you choose (there are many via search), avoid anything too sweet – any kids there should have their own drinks – and if you own one, place aromatic bitters close by (refrain from putting any into the punch since they are inappropriate for people who avoid alcohol entirely). Make an effort with presentation so the soft punch isn't perceived unimportant; it only takes a minute to slice several pieces of fruit into the bowl.

Snacks That Shine Without Effort

In my view, I recommend passing on the store-bought assortments of "party foods" that pop up at grocery stores during the holidays; they seem overly complicated, and usually require turning the oven on (should you go this route, know that all guests secretly likes herb bread and/or mini sausages anyway). I truly believe you can't beat a couple of really big bowls of decent chips (simple is universally liked), and, assuming no allergies, one of those big and excellent value bags of mixed nuts available in the South Asian section of supermarkets, with perhaps a few olives without stones as a garnish (try not to discover stones around the house next Easter).

If, as my mother says, you think crisps real food, a single big slab of quality cheese on a board with crackers and some artfully draped fruit often appears artistic. A serving dish with some cured or cooked prosciutto or seafood arranged on it (only one type, except if money is no object), or a handsome pre-made tart, similar to that pop up on deli counters at this time of year, is even more filling, and you really won't fail with artisanal chunks of flatbread, because there's no need for additional preparation.

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