Sometimes the parties that are the most memorable, the most enjoyable, the ones you end up reminiscing about for years later, are ones that just happen. Nobody makes a plan, sends out invitations, or creates an elaborate menu; a group of friends just get together and have a good time.
At a school function a while back, we started chatting with friends, and before too long we realized that we were going to get locked into the building if we didn’t get out of there. I impulsively invited everyone to come over to our house, so that we could continue to enjoy each others company. Clearly, I was not thinking clearly. I had not prepped for a party, I didn’t have anything planned, or ready for people to descend upon our home. But it was too late, I had already opened my big mouth, so I had to follow through.
On our way home, we stopped off at the local supermarket, grabbed some soda, beer, etc. and a few snacks and headed back out. We got there shortly before the first people started coming in. I sent my husband downstairs to get our “picnic box” so that we could instantly manufacture a party. I had some extra solid-color tableware from a previous occasion, which was absolutely perfect. Nothing makes a party less fun, than the prospect of a lot of cleanup at the end of the evening, so I highly recommend always having some disposable plates, cups etc. on hand.
We quickly set out plates, napkins, and plastic cutlery, and then scanned the cupboards and refrigerator to see what we had to offer. I threw some baby carrots, broccoli, and celery, onto a platter, with ranch dressing. We made a quick cheese and meat tray by slicing cheese, salami, and summer sausage, and putting them on a tray, with crackers. Then I grabbed grapes, pineapple and strawberries out of the fruit drawer and put them out, as well. I poured salsa into a bowl, along with some tortilla chips, and boom, I was done. It took, literally less than fifteen minutes to get everything out onto platters and trays, ready for guests to dig in.
When people got to our house, I was just finishing up putting things out, and my husband started greeting people. We put the iPod onto the dock, started playing some music, and having fun. Kids were running around, the parents were talking, eating, and drinking; everyone was having a great time. Everyone started dancing in the kitchen (seriously, there are very few things more awesome than a kitchen dance party; try it, you’ll see!) Before we knew it, we had all partied into the wee hours of the morning, having a great time.
This party was a couple of years ago, but our kids, and our friends still talk about it. It was by far, the least effort and expense I have ever spent on a party, but probably one of the most enjoyable we have ever had. Don’t be afraid to try it; parties don’t have to be big, expensive, time-consuming affairs. We spent, maybe $50 on the whole evening, and there was virtually no prep time involved. Just friends, food, and fun; three essential ingredients, for a great party!
