You don't need to go overboard with balloons, buntings, and banners everywhere. We are asking for some minimal decorative items that will set the mood for the gathering. Choose from colorful tablecloths, a few streamers, and menu boards to get into the party spirit. Basically, keep the ice cream social decorations as simple as possible; you want the ice cream to be the hero of the party. To save time, set up a self-serve buffet or ice cream bar that has all the flavors on display. Setting everything up before the guests arrive means more time for you to mingle. However, as you can't keep ice cream on the buffet table for long, you can keep the utensils, napkins, plates, etc., outside and serve the guests as and when they arrive. A good way to reduce your work during the party is to scoop ice cream in a muffin pad lined with cupcake liners, and pop it in the freezer. Bring these out and have the guests choose the flavors they want. For a small group of people, you can spend some time to create a masterpiece. Of course, no one wants to be stuck serving everyone and miss out on all the fun. However, an exception can be made for an intimate gathering. Store glassware and spoons in the freezer till your guests arrive. At the time of serving, grab everything one by one and serve the ice cream in chilled glassware to prevent it from melting too fast. Obviously, you'll have a separate section for the toppings. But don't forget the additional food items and supplies. We are talking about ice cream cups and cones, utensils, nuts, candy sprinkles, syrups, sauces, whipped cream, hot fudge, root beer, soda pop, and basically anything and everything you can think of to serve with the delicious ice cream. Apart from this, you can have a separate section with an array of fruits. We love the idea of serving seasonal fruits as it adds color and substance to the party. Make sure there is enough for everyone. Which means, have enough stock on hand and keep refilling everything as and when needed. Ice cream is meant to be enjoyed outside, in the sunshine. Last, but definitely the essence of the party―making sure the guests are having a ton of fun. Guide and help them make their own sundae, cone, or float creations, so it's easier for everyone to really enjoy the party. Regardless of when and where you host the party, the most essential thing is to enjoy every minute of it. After all the planning and organizing, make sure that you don't stress yourself out and are able to spend the day with everyone. Even if certain elements aren't as perfect as you wish them to be, let them be―what's important is that you had the opportunity (and excuse) to celebrate this gathering with family and close friends.