Setting up a last-minute party

July 22, 2009 Written by:

Sometimes you can't plan a party because the party comes to you.

Unexpected guests can turn a typical evening to a fun one, but may stress some party planners out. However, there are some tricks to get you through the event.

Remember that the guests themselves know they are unexpected and are not expecting a party, so don't worry too much about presentation. One way to quickly settle everything down is put on music, both as a distraction and as a way to create a party atmosphere.

Those who think their home is too messy or dusty can hide that fact by dimming the lights and lighting some candles (always good to have a drawer of candles ready to go). This will set a proper mood and help conceal any embarrassing blemishes you think are visible.

Don't be afraid to assign tasks to your guests such as asking someone to gather the coats or open a bottle of wine to serve to the group.

Finally, cutting up some cheese and fruit, and displaying them with crackers, is a simple and quick way to put out some food for your drop-in visitors.