Last week, I held a little Birthday gathering for Lisa Robertson. Most of these folks had never been to my house; so of course I cleaned as if Scarlett was coming for inspection. 
Next up was transforming my circus of a home into a place for an adult birthday party. My hope was that I would be able to create a place that everyone would mingle and visit. I was shooting for a “cozy” ambiance; not formal--- I’m definitely allergic to formal!
Since it was more of a drop in event that was heavy on the hor'deurves instead of a sit down dinner, I moved my dining room table up against my sliding glass door and turned it into a buffet table of sorts. I set up all the food there.
Then, I wanted to create a special place for the Cupcakes. Eva, Lisa’s go-to stylist, had ordered Lisa’s all-time favorite cupcakes from her favorite bakery; so I knew they needed a place of honor. Ultimately, I opted for a “Drinks and Dessert” station. (I thought that sounded way more festive than “It’s on the end of the counter.”)
Fortunately, I also had my new Keurig 2.0. I was able to make a carafe ahead of time for regular coffee and have K-cups on hand for specialty beverages as well as hot and cold tea. Boy did this free me up to do other things. Plus I think everyone enjoyed selecting and making their favorite drinks!
By the way, when our house is on “high-alert” in the mornings, I am loving the ability to brew a carafe. That way, me, Nana, and Hubby can enjoy a cup together before we start our day.