I was chatting with my mom this week about hosting a “grandbaby” shower for one of her good friends. Is that a thing? I’m not totally sure it is but feel like it should totally be a thing. Here’s my reasoning. We all have our mother’s asking us about when grand babies are coming even if we are single. Now, I am not saying the grandma-to-be needs gifts, but I think is a very nice way for the mom-to-be’s mom to get together with friends and shower the new grand baby. Most of these older women were probably invited to your wedding, know more about your life from coffee dates with your mom than you think, and probably feel very invested in your relationship. I’m not complaining over here. I think it’s wonderful to have a group of older women to look up to for advice and wisdom. They’ve already been in our shoes!
Back to the point. Feeding a group of women can be tricky! This person is avoiding gluten, this person is avoiding sugar, this person is trying a vegan diet, your best friend is trying keto. How do you juggle it all? No matter what age group is coming, there’s going to be some dietary restriction.
First, host a party during non-eating hours so they know it’s not meant to be a meal. Anything between 3 PM and 5 PM is a safe bet. Or if they’re partiers, have a dessert party anytime after 7:30 PM. Or for the early risers, 10 AM might be your “cup of tea.” You will still need to provide something to nosh on, but luckily do not need to organize a whole dinner party.
Baked Parmesan Zucchini by Damn Delicious
Next, you are not superwoman. My goal is to try and have at least one food for the main dietary issues – vegan/vegetarian and gluten free. If you stick with that you will most likely have something for everyone.
Finally, switch up your dippers. The best way to cover your bases is by offering a couple of different way people can consume some lovely snacks. Instead of just pita for hummus, add some carrots and cucumbers. Find some gluten free crackers to add to your cheese plate. Celery is a great addition for buffalo chicken dip.
It’s hard to please everyone, but just putting a little effort in, even if you missed the person who is trying keto but also vegan, will mater the most!