How To Throw A Stylish Cocktail Party

Guests in elegant clothing, soothing background music, indulgent food and superb drinks – these are all the things that spring to mind when you think about a cocktail party. Read on to find out how to get this essential mix of ingredients just right.

Consult your diary

Decide on the time and date of your party. Make it an evening social event as it will be the perfect way for friends to wind down after a day at the office. Cocktail parties are normally held between 6pm and 10pm but if it is in full swing there is no need to cut it off at that time.

Little Black Dress

We all love to dress up but rarely get the opportunity. A sophisticated dress code will help to create the right mood. Make sure you stipulate on your invitations what the dress code is going to be.

Food

An eight course banquet is not required – Hors d’oeurves (canapés) and small portions of food are the order of the day. To match the occasion you will have to look beyond bowls of nuts and offer small quantities of indulgent foods.

Go for caviar on toast, sushi, fresh oysters, strawberries dipped in chocolate etc. About 5 to 10 bites per person would be ideal.

Drinks

Of course the cocktails will be the main attraction. Unless you are a confident mixologist, get an expert in to do it for you. Always make sure you have plenty of ice and suitable glasses; martini in a pint glass won’t really be appropriate. Champagne is always well received either as it is or used in cocktails.

Seating

It is important to provide some seating but don’t go mad. You want people to mix and not sit down in their set social groups. Approximately 1 seat for every 2 guests will be about right.

What else? Well, don’t forget the background music and low lighting. And remember that smiles are contagious so, as the host, smile and relax. This feeling will spread throughout the party.

That’s it, in a nutshell. Go on, have some fun and throw yourself a cocktail party!

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