Since the early 1900s, cocktail parties have been a popular social event. They’re ideal for entertaining friends or business associates, and a guest list of around 10 people creates a personal party that is manageable for the host. Cocktail parties are also fantastic for open houses and receptions, both business and personal, on a larger scale.
A cocktail party usually lasts two to three hours and features a modest spread of food as well as excellent mixed drinks while guests mingle. Because there are so many possibilities, it’s really simple to organize.
Cocktails and Other Party Drinks
The drinks are the most essential component of a cocktail party. Prepare two to three beverages per person, as well as some wine, beer, and water. Consider making nonalcoholic beverages or mocktails for those who don’t drink alcohol. Serve everything in plastic cocktail glasses so that you don’t have to worry about smashed glasses or cleaning up.
Depending on how much effort you want to put into the beverages, there are a few different methods you can take:
- Full Bar: This selection allows your visitors to mix and match their favourite beverages. It works best if you already have a well-stocked bar or are willing to purchase the necessary spirits and mix various drinks (or hire a good bartender). It’s also an excellent method for big gatherings, especially those with a designated bartender.
- Drink Menu: People who drink a variety of beverages are more likely to try new ones, which encourages them to stretch their comfort zones and discover new drinks. It also saves money by requiring fewer ingredients. Choose two or three beverages; include at least one well-known classic cocktail, and then pick something innovative that is somewhat distinctive. Make a drink list with the components for larger gatherings. Put it on the bar so guests can browse through it, and you don’t have to explain all of the choices to everyone.
- Pitcher Cocktails: The best method to serve drinks this way is while keeping things simple. Guests can help themselves, and the beverages are prepared to go. For variety, prepare a few cocktails in pitchers ahead of time and keep them cold (keep any carbonated mixers until it’s time to serve). Set the pitchers on a table with glasses, garnishes, and an ice bucket and you’re ready to mix.
8 Tips for a Great Party
- Invites should be sent at least a week before the event, but no more than two weeks prior. Unless it’s a busy season like November and December, two to three weeks should suffice.
- Consider that roughly three-quarters of guests will attend major events. This might assist you in estimating how many drinks and how many bottles you’ll need.
- It will also help you determine how big the table will be, how many dishes you’ll need, and whether or not you’ll need candles, lighting, or a bouquet of flowers to be the centerpiece.
- Ensure that you have the proper bar equipment for your cocktail list, as well as a sufficient supply of high-quality ice.
- Prepare all of the garnishes but not too far ahead of time so they remain fresh.
- Have a sufficient amount of cocktail napkins, tiny plates, and glasses on hand. For the occasion, you might be able to borrow or rent glasses. Don’t worry too much about the “correct” glassware; martinis can also be consumed in wine glasses or little tumblers.
- Use an element of surprise to add a “WOW” factor to your event. This might be anything from a beverage, garnish, food platter, or whatever you want it to be.
- It’s a good idea to keep everyone mingling by performing some type of simple conversation-starting activity. It’s not necessary for every party, but it’s a nice thing to have on hand just in case.
- Those drinking at your party are the responsibility of every good host. Keep an eye on guests who have had too much to drink and cut them off as needed. Make arrangements for designated drivers if necessary.