Sometimes family or friend gatherings can be a surprise, not just for the expecting guests but also for its organizers.  In the event of an emergency hosting, creative modifications to the typical party-organizing process can save party hosts valuable time.  Read on for my favorite tips and tricks to wow your guests at your next last-minute hosted gathering. They would not know you barely planned for it.

Entice Your Guests With Candles

Candles are perfect last-minute additions to any hosted gatherings that do not take a significant amount of time to prepare.  The flicker of candlelight produces a welcoming ambiance that guests can enter into.  As a bonus, the incorporation of candles in a living space can act as a stylish decor that sets the mood of any party.  Experiment with bold or striking colors for a vibrant celebration, or strategically place candles throughout the dining room for a cozy atmosphere.  In addition, scented candles are a perfect way to introduce seasonal or sensational fragrances to a house. This year's Decocrated Fall 2021 Box contained the cutest candle pillars that would be perfect for a table setting.

Forgo Complicated Meals For Finger Foods

Casseroles, roasts, and savory grilled meats are delightful meal ideas to satisfy guests' palates at family gatherings, but the scrunch of time steals away the opportunity to prepare the meals.  Skip the marinating, chopping, and stirring for versatile yet filling selections of creative yet appetite-stimulating finger foods.  Finger foods, by nature, evoke a cook's creativity and take into account portion control for guests.  If you intend to avoid the hassle of cooking and opt for a take-out or catering service instead, the addition of homemade finger foods can assist with personalizing the party meals. If you have a tray sitting around you could use finger foods on. I’m really like the tray that came in the Winter Decocrated 2021 Box. It’s a great size and can be used to pass food around to your guests, as well as decor.

Excite Guests With Some Bubbles And Wines

 

For busy hosts with not much time to spare at hosted gatherings, cocktails and drinks are convenient ways to entertain guests.  Cocktails, wine, or beverages are highly versatile and the selection of the right drinks can turn any party into a bubbling fiesta.  Best of all, hosts can utilize available pantry juices, citrus, and drinks to concoct a beverage that matches the theme of their parties.  Start the dinner party with some sparkling beverages and introduce alcoholic wines or beverages to age-appropriate guests as the party proceeds.

Leave A Sweet Taste At The End Of The Party

A slice of a decadent chocolate cake or a scoop of ice cream can leave a smile on guests' faces before they depart from a party. Experiment with dessert pairings by contrasting and complementing the ranges of textures and flavors to keep your guests impressed.  Whether the host decides to pick a quick dessert from the bakery or spare some time to bake an easy dessert, the sweet treats will elevate any party to another level.

Take A Deep Breath And Enjoy it!

Last but not least, enjoy the family gatherings!  When it comes to last-minute hosting, accepting that the party will not be perfect is essential.  It will not be perfect because it does not have to be since it's last-minute.  But whether a party is well-organized ahead of time or pulled out in the nick of time, the ingredient to success at any party is FUN.

To sum it all up, throwing a last-minute party can be a daunting task, but the key to a party's success is acknowledging that the central part of a party is simply to enjoy the company of people you love.  Organize a family gathering where you can emphasize valuable conversations and make precious memories instead of worrying too much over the tiny details of the party. When you get a subscription with Decocrated home decor box, you can have decor delivered to your doorstep that’s versatile to use during different seasons, and they even make great options to use during a hosted event. I hope the next time you have to put together a last-minute gathering, you will be well prepared for the task!

-Nikki 

Follow me on my blog and social media!