Cocktail parties are great for social gatherings with your family and friends for any occasion. Of course, they are also great for house warmings or even birthday party!
I always love to make my own hors d’oeuvres, canapés and sweet desserts from scratch when it comes to the party. However, as a cocktail party is all about the cocktails, as a host, I love the idea that minimal snacks need to be served. After the party, I will still have time to enjoy my nights rest than worry about cooking more food for our guests!
So to plan a cocktail party, you will need a plan!
- Date and Time
It is always very important that your party will not clash with any big events like Formula 1, FA Cup, rugby or any local events! If it does clash, try to host it after the event. I know my husband wouldn’t be pleased if it was during an important Formula 1 event or if Liverpool was playing in the FA Cup final!
- Venue
If you are hosting at your house, do make sure you tell your guests where to park or carpool! We live in a newish estate and parking around the estate has always been a nightmare for anyone living here.
If you hire a hall or restaurant, remember to send them a link to the address or include a printout of a map in your invite!
- Guest list/Invitation
Make a guest list so that you won’t over invite and blow your budget. As for invite, I always opt for social media which I think is most efficient. Message your guests all the details there and then. It will save you money and time! But if you prefer a more old fashioned way, why not call them instead!
- Theme/Environment
Set a theme for your party! It can be the 60s party, beach party etc. if you want your guests to dress up! This will also help to get the right party-ware for your party if required!
Set the right music and get the decoration ready too!
- Plan your budget
Needless to say that you should always keep within your budget. Plan how much you can afford to spend on food and drink for all your guests. Don’t be afraid to ask your family or friends to bring food or drinks along too! They won’t not mind!
- Cocktails
Serve a light welcome drink like a chilled glass of Bucks Fizz, I love the Tesco one! Not forgetting your little guests, they can have orange juice with lemonade instead.
Plan at least 2 to 3 different types of cocktails and look up the recipes if you’re not familiar with them! Get at least two liquors like gin, and tequila.
Also, not forgetting to get mixers and garnishes, including orange juice, soda, tonic, ginger ale, limes and lemon.
Lastly, remember to have plenty of ice, champagne flutes and plenty of napkins.
Check out my blogger night in, 2013 blog post where we reviewed a huge range of cocktail mixers!
- Food
As I mentioned, I love to make my own finger foods for my guests. Try to plan at least 6 – 8 different types of food for each person. I find that chocolate truffles are great for serving your guests. They can be made a few days before and lasts for 2 – 3 weeks. So you won’t worry that the truffles become spoilt. Alternatively, try this quick and easy fruit tart recipe I made last year. Or maybe throw in a few olives and garlic bread!
Last but not least, make sure that your guests all go home safely. Get them a cab if required or maybe offer to drive them back assuming you didn’t drink!
I am so looking forward to my cocktail party that I will be hosting next month for my birthday! To ease my stress, I am getting a mixologist to do all the drinks while I can get ready all the finger foods!
Disclosure: Written for Tesco.