Stir Up Some Fun With A Themed Cocktail Party

Tired of the same old gathering of family and friends?  Stir up some fun with a cocktail party!  Whether you’re planning an engagement party or looking to jump start the bachelor party, a cocktail party is a fun way to celebrate.  And, the best part is, you don’t have to be an expert party planner to make it happen like a pro.  It’s festive, it’s fun and it’s easy–with these tips:

Don’t go broke on the bar: Trying to stock the bar for every drink imaginable could be a disaster, unless you’re loaded with cash.  Instead, pick 3-4 drinks that you know will be hit with your friends and purchase the alcohol for those.  Allow for three drinks per person and keep in mind that a each 750 ml bottle will make about 15 cocktails.  Complete the bar with a good selection of beer, wine and even non-alcoholic drinks for those who might not want the cocktails.

Create a signature drink: This is a fun way to personalize your party.  Guests can sip the night away on a matrimonial martini or a cocktail named after something special for the couple, like the wedding theme if you’re having a beach wedding or the place where you met or proposed.  A signature drink can help tell your story and is a great conversation starter.

Choose a theme: Everyone knows that party planning is a whole lot easier when elements are held to a central theme.  For a cocktail party, choose a tropical theme with beachy drinks, a regional theme with local beers and unique cocktails or a martini theme with all sorts of martinis, and then mix in some unique party favors that accent the theme.

If you’re going with a martini theme, you might consider this martini salt and pepper shaker as a practical favor that reminds your guests of your totally fab party.  With a classic olive on top, it makes a realistic first impression.  Or, help guests keep the party going with cocktail mix favors.  Whether you choose a Cosmopolitan, Margarita or some other drink mix, it will be easy for guests to make their own drinks when they get home.

Designate a bartender. Because you’re the host/hostess, you’ll have plenty to do mingling and making sure your guests are having a good time.  Whether it’s a large or a small gathering, leave the bartending to Uncle Bob or a friend who knows their way around the bar, or hire a professional.

Don’t forget the food! Balancing the beverages with some light hors d’ oeuvres will help make sure that no one gets inebriated.  Consider meats, cheese, fruits and veggies.  Depending on the type of event, you can fancy up some favorites or go exotic, if you dare.

Bottoms up!