Planning a cocktail party?

Being in the hospitality industry, I am always forced to assume a critic’s role whenever I am at a friend’s party, they want to know whether their choice of drinks is ok or the quantity of snacks is right etc. other times when I attend formal gatherings, I involuntarily  tend to start assessing  the host’s choice of venue, food, drinks music etc. I start thinking about the thought that may have gone behind the host’s choice & appreciate the effort taken to organize that event.

Many times I am amazed at the attention to detail people pay to host parties, these people are no where related to the hotel industry or any event organizing firm and still manage to plan some fantastic parties. Other times at some other parties I am compelled to think of improvements that could have made the party click. So here’s my question… What is that classic recipe for a great party….A party that would be remembered, a party that could highlight you as a super host…. Well the answer may not be a straight forward one but yes if one follows few basic guidelines & pepper it with their own individual style then chances are that they maybe able to perfect that classic recipe.   

 One of the easiest types of party to throw during any season is a cocktail party. Now, many of you may ask what exactly a cocktail party is, to cut the long story short it’s a kind of party that has a nice blend of a comfortable venue, cheerful guests, good music, delicious food and great drinks. 

Drinks would have to take the centre stage here, you may serve straight drinks, beers, wines, juices and cocktails (Cocktail: A mixed drink that has alcohol as a base & the rest of it is a juice or a mix of juices/carbonated drinks/syrups/squashes/fruits etc. with a good garnish & unique glassware.)

Here is a simple & easy to follow checklist for that special cocktail party

The first step in cocktail party planning is to select a comfortable venue, by comfortable I mean it should be easily accessible by your guests and should be large enough to accommodate them. The primary focus is the drinks along with good conversation. For this reason often there is not a lot of concern to have tables and seating for everyone, as the setting is more commonly designed for people to mill around as they munch and drink.

The next crucial step is to create your guest list. You do not want to target one personality type. Variety is the spice of life. Include guests that are interesting, cheerful, outgoing and friendly.

Music should be able to compliment the mood at the party, If you have a DJ then make the DJ understand the purpose of the party and the music choice likes & dislikes of the guests. Always remember a good DJ with a great collection of music can take your party to that next level.

Get as much of your food and decoration shopping done ahead of time as you can. Plan your menu out ahead of time and buy the necessary ingredients so you will have them on hand that day.

Decide on the number of glasses you will use, and what type. This 

usually is an overlooked item on this part of the planning stage, even though it is actually a high-priority aspect of any celebrated event.

Plan the kinds of finger foods you will serve and make arrangements to have them delivered an hour before the start of the party. The amount of food is optional on your party because it is not a dinner party.

Use special recipes in concocting your drinks. Keep printed copies of them readily available, just in case. Never fail to measure your mixes. Do not just estimate because your guests will not appreciate overly strong drinks.

Try new cocktail recipes or present new twist to the classic recipes, this way the guest can enjoy the pleasant new taste and you can showcase your skills as a great cocktail host.

The garnishes can be prepped ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator. The drinks you serve will determine what garnishes you need. I always prep limes, oranges, cherries, pineapples, cocktail onions and olives.

& finally always have on-hand plenty of ice, drink stirrers and cocktail napkins.

So there it is you have got yourself a checklist which should surely see you through a successful cocktail party.  Don’t forget to have fun.. cheers!