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How To Host the Perfect Cocktail Party

The humble cocktail party is a sure-fire way to bring together friends and family to celebrate a special occasion, gather to mark a milestone or just enjoy a spirited evening. But, deciding to host a cocktail party and actually pulling off the perfect one are two very different things. Hosting a cocktail party can feel like a daunting task, but with some planning and organization you can have everything in place to ensure the gathering flows with ease and everyone has an enjoyable time. With that in mind, here are some top tips for hosting the perfect cocktail party.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cocktail Party

Having everything you need for each of your cocktails, from the correct ingredients to the equipment is critical for success. Making sure you have received, and understand, drink orders for each guest is essential for the night to run smoothly. Below is a list of things you should gather to make sure you are prepared:

Ingredients:

● Alcoholic drinks (vodka, gin, whiskey, etc.)
● Non-alcoholic drinks
● Mixers, Sodas and Juices
● Garnishes (cucumber, lime, etc.)
● Ice
● Syrups and any other ingredients you may need

Equipment:

● Cocktail shaker
● Jigger (to measure the exact amount of spirits and mixer)
● Strainer
● Bottles of tonic and soda water
● Chopping board and knife
● Blender and/or Juicer

Drink Menus

If you are providing cocktails for your guests, then a carefully curated menu is an important factor for success. Researching a range of recipes will ensure you can make drinks for all taste buds, from simple yet delicious beverages to signature signature cocktails that are specifically designed for the evening. Plus, you’ll require fewer ingredients and can create drinks with a mixture of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Here are some popular drinks that you can use to build your menu:

Classic Cocktails

● Margarita – Tequila, orange liqueur & lime juice
● Mojito – White rum, mint, lime juice & soda water
● Old Fashioned – Bourbon whiskey & Angostura bitters
● Pina Colada – White rum, coconut cream & pineapple juice
● Daiquiri – White rum, lime juice & sugar syrup

Signature Cocktails

● Cosmopolitan – Vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice & cranberry juice
● French Martini – Vodka, Chambord & pineapple juice
● Singapore Sling – Gin, DOM Benedictine & grenadine
● Mai Tai – White rum, dark rum, orange liqueur, lime juice & orgeat syrup

Equally important to a curated menu is ensuring anyone with special dietary requirements or allergies is catered for. It’s best to ask each guest ahead of time to make sure their needs are met.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

Creating a great ambience for your cocktail party is all about utilizing the right props and decorations. You can start with the basics, such as choosing the right tables, chairs and bar ware, as they are key elements that will help your guests feel at home.

Table Settings

Tables should be clean and uncluttered, with a focus on setting the tone of your party. Placemats and layered linen tablecloths are perfect for creating a more formal occasion, though not essential. Consider adding small plants to each table for an earthy vibe, or speak to your local florist about beautiful displays that can be suitable. Candles, decorations such as balloons and other pieces of décor can also be added, with personal touches from photos or gifts depending on the event being celebrated.

Lighting

Shifting away from the lighting fixtures throughout your home, consider bringing in features that change the tone of the room and draw attention to key areas such as the bar or buffet. Lanterns or personal lamps are great for creating a softer, more inviting atmosphere, while scatter fairy lights throughout the area to create a unique and magical vibe.

Music

Music is an integral part of any party, and creating the appropriate soundtrack is key to establishing the tone and energy of the night. An effervescent electro-pop Spotify playlist can really set the mood and help bring your cocktail party to life. You can amplify the sound by hiring out a sound system or visiting a venue that already has house speakers.

Food and Snacks

Food is an important part of your party, but with the focus being on the cocktails and drinks, consider offering light snacks and finger food that guests can enjoy throughout the night. Grazing platters, cheese boards and charcuterie are perfect for cocktail gatherings, as are olives, crisps and nuts.

Gifting and Favours

The perfect way to send your guests off with an extra-special thank you is to provide gifts or favours. This can be anything from customised drinks stirrers, to mini bottles of alcohol or even hand-lettered place cards for each guest. This simple step can be the cherry on top of a night well spent.

Etiquette

If you are acting as a host at a cocktail party, there are certain rules and etiquette to abide by. It’s important to lead by example and, as long as your guests are over the age of 18, they are responsible for remaining in control at all times. Ensure minors are supervised and offer some plain water or soda and tonic with every alcoholic drink to slow down the process. Additionally, always have taxi or Uber numbers and keys to the door on hand so your guests can make it home safely at the end of the night.

Bringing the Perfect Cocktail Party to Life

By taking the time and effort to plan, organize and prepare for your cocktail party, you can ensure the night is an unforgettable event. Always err on the side of caution and make sure all of your guests are looked after and comfortable, as your aim is for everyone to have a memorable evening.

We hope this guide on how to host the perfect cocktail party will be helpful for your next gathering. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun as that is the essence of gathering together. Enjoy!

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