How to prepare an apero*

Make sure you have done all the shopping at least a day in advance. You don't wanna wake up having the stress of going shopping. Morning: put all the bottles of soda, fizzy water and white wine in the fridge, so that it'll be cold in the evening. Marinate meat if you plan that, like chicken wings that I usually have. Midday: relax, shower, take a walk if you're so inclined. If you know the people don't worry, if it's people new to you, think of topics to discuss and interesting things to tell them. People don't do well without entertainment. They are expecting you to take the lead. Afternoon: prepare everything in advance. I have just done a ham/salami-plate, coupla cheese plates decorated with grapes, tomato/mozzarella, chicken wings in oven (bread will have to wait a little), carrot- and cucumber sticks with dip (chili of course). Don't forget to change clothes and comb hair. It doesn't look nice to open the door clad in if not rags so shorts and a top that has been washed about 2,000 times, which btw is usually what I wear at home. Evening: when door rings open and smile widely, because you are happy to see the people you invited (why else would you have?). Stick immediately a glass with something alcoholic in their hand, and the rest will take care of itself. Easy-peasy, and ever so much fun! *apero in Switzerland is usually a bit more than just a little finger-food.