The Last Minute Party
Posted by Canadian Dream on December 23, 2010
In a rare moment of either stupidity or a desire to inflict pain on myself I’ve decided to host a last minute Christmas Eve party at my house. The only good news is the guest list is very small so it won’t be a that much trouble to do, but in a effort to keep things interesting I’ve decided to keep the costs of hosting to a minimum… like around zero. Why? I avoid shopping like the plague at this point in the year because I just can’t stand the crowds.
So how do you fed a group eight people with almost no notice? I personally decided to take the easy route and dig around the freezer and search my pantry for ideas. Thank goodness I have the foresight to keep a few items around for these moments like a shrimp ring. I’m going with a simple appetizer and drink theme similar to the classic cocktail party. Here is the list:
Drinks
- Eggnog – of course
- Mulled Wine, Strawberry Wine, White Wine
- Selection of pop
- Misc cocktails that I have the ingredients for (I’m still trying to decide on one or two)
Appetizers
- Shrimp Ring
- Premade hor d’oeuvres
- Chicken Wings
- Veggies Tray with Dip
- Cheese Thins – A thin pastry like snack.
- Potato Skins
- Potato Cheddar Muffins (we have a few kids coming so I decided to make something they will love)
Thankfully the house is already decorated for Christmas so other than a quick clean I’m almost ready there. Then for a little entertainment I’ve decided to bring out a simple game to play called Shut the Box. Which if you have never played I suggest you get copy as even small kids can play with a little help from Mom or Dad, all you need is a little bit of adding skill to play.
Now I just have to hope I can pull it off given the short notice of I only decided this on Monday. So any advice for the last minute party planner?
Some of the best parties I’ve gone to are potluck style — where everyone who comes brings a dish to share. It gives everyone a chance to try something new and different, and makes it REALLY easy to plan for, since you only have to make (or buy) one dish.