Cocktail parties are fancy get-togethers intended to entertain close friends, colleagues, or business associates. They are also excellent for wedding receptions and other more significant events because they are not as challenging to organise. These parties were quite popular during the early 1900s but tapered off during the 60s and 70s, paving the way for more casual gatherings. Today, cocktail parties have regained their popularity among many. They typically last for about 3 hours, and guests enjoy various alcoholic beverages while snacking on hors d’oeuvres, canapés, and other finger foods.
If you plan to organise and host an intimate cocktail party, you will find that the preparations for this gathering are not as stressful as hosting a dinner party where many details are involved to ensure its success. And because this party is more fluid, it is easier for guests to mingle with people they are comfortable with rather than those they may not really know. However, should you not be as experienced, there is no need to worry as you can always check out houseofpartyplanning.com/guides/planning-the-perfect-cocktail-party to assist you with their professional suppliers for all your cocktail party needs.
Below are some practical tips on how to organise a successful intimate cocktail party.
Plan a month before
Any event is easier to organise if you start your preparations early. That way, you can ensure that you have ironed out every detail and gather everything you need before the party. The first step is to decide on when you want to hold the event. It is always best to have it on a weekend so guests can drink without worrying about work the day after. Choose a venue so you can book the place if you want your party in a hotel’s function room or restaurant. Make a list of your guests and prepare the invitations. Remember to come up with a budget to keep track of what you are spending and have a sufficient amount allocated for everything you need for your cocktail party.
Decide on the food and drinks
The great thing about cocktail parties is that you do not have to serve your guests a full meal. The aim is to mingle with other guests as they drink and enjoy finger foods. You can also include fruit slices, a cheese plate and crackers, and canapés that are easy to carry and eat while moving around. Think of the beverages you intend to serve, such as cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne. Ensure that you have a stock of drinks and enough finger foods for your guests can go back and forth for more.
Provide entertainment
A cocktail party does not require extravagant entertainment since it is intended more for guests to mingle and converse. Still, it would be nice to have some form of entertainment, such as a solo singer or a trio performing easy listening music. It is also good to alternate this with piped-in music playing in the background to set the party’s mood. Avoid blaring music that can keep your guests from comfortably talking to each other.
Finally, have your guests know that it would be best to have designated drivers along since there will be drinking at the party. This will ensure that everyone gets home safely.
