With longer days and warmer weather, summer nights seem to inspire last minute get-togethers, either after work or on a sunny Sunday afternoon. As accomplished hosts can tell you, a little planning ahead makes it easy to create a party to remember, even if you only have five minutes to prep!

For starters, a stocked freezer is your friend. With that and a couple of non-perishable items, you'll have food and mood under control. Check out the gallery for a quick list of party tricks to enhance those friend-filled evenings and weekends.