Cocktail Parties

From the heyday of the Rat Pack to the modern resurgence, cocktail parties have always been (at least in theory) a great way for adults to mingle. Apart from being great fun, cocktail parties are suitable for almost any occasion, from social gatherings to work functions. They can be elegant or simple, depending on the host's preferences. Scroll down the page for cocktail party planning, decorating and food ideas. 

Music and Entertainment

Jazz, easy listening and classical music playing quietly in the background will help set the tone of the party. The music should be background ambience and not overwhelm the conversation.

Cocktail Party Outfits

Cocktail parties have traditionally had a semi-formal dress code. Stylish clothing and accessories are a must.

• Buy Costumes - One of the world's largest costume and party shops with over 15,000 products available online. Delivers US wide and to some international destinations. For flapper costumes see their Historical costumes
   
• Yes Style - Hong-Kong based online store that connects the best Asian fashion designers to the world with an enormous range of products for men and women at affordable prices. Express shipping to the US is free on orders over $150, and for a small flat rate on orders under $150. See their Beauty products and Fashion accessories
   
• Designer Shoes - Specializing in wider, longer and hard to find women's shoes. They have a huge selection of fashion shoes in sizes 9-12 Narrow, 12-15 Medium, 6-15 Wide, and extra wide. Based in Boston with US wide and international shipping.
   
• Baghaus - One-stop destination for the latest and hottest designer handbags at affordable prices. Shop by colour, price, size, style and see popular celebrity styles. Free ground shipping on orders over $100. See their Clutches & Evening Bags
   
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• Love My Shoes - Designer women's shoes. Delivery US wide including US territories, flat rate shipping and free delivery on orders over $90. See their women's evening shoes

Cocktail Party Products

Cocktail parties are meant to be sophisticated and the decor should reflect this. Black, white, red and silver color schemes suit this theme. Choosing  or 2 of these colors and using them for the decorations and partyware is an easy way to set the mood. White or color-coordinated tea lights are a cheap and easy way to add ambience.

• ShindigZ - Thousands of party products including balloons, tableware, and decorations for themed parties and special events. ShindigZ is family owned and run, based in Indiana with delivery US wide and to Canada.
   
• Discount Candles - Candles and candle making supplies for parties and gifts as well as themed candles for holidays and special occasions. Buy floating candles, tealights, novelty candles, seasonal candles, candle holders, scented candles and more. Family business that ships within the US and internationally. See their Votives & Tealights

Cocktail Party ideas

Invitations - These will set the tone for the party.  If you are having an additional theme (such as black and white) make sure that the invitations reflect this. Use the invitation to specify the dress code and give party guests an idea of what to expect from the party. Remember to provide your details so guests can RSVP.

Decor - There is no specific decor associated with a cocktail party, but there are certain arrangements that make for a more pleasant experience. Having gentle lighting and appropriate music (like jazz or classical) playing quietly in the background will help set the mood.  For the comfort of your guests make sure there is plenty of room to move and provide adequate seating. 

Food - Only light food is needed at a cocktail party. It is best to make refreshments  ahead of time and refrigerate them until they are ready to be eaten. Some suggestions include: simple canapés, antipasto and platters with gourmet cheese, crackers, nuts, cold meats and fruit. 

Drinks - Cocktail parties require more thought and effort being put into the drinks than other parties. Below are some hints to get you started.

• Decide ahead of time what drinks you will be serving and have several lists drawn up for guests to look at. Restricting the number of spirits you use will make the bartender's job easier.
• Make sure you have the equipment you need to make specific cocktails (eg mixers and blenders) before the party starts. Don't forget the ice, sugar, salt, mixers and garnishes.
• If you are mixing the brinks yourself, do as much as you can before hand. Many frozen cocktails often come in premixed packs that can be made ahead of time.
• Have plenty of glasses on hand and get someone to collect and wash glasses periodically. Using drink charms helps people to keep track of their drinks and will reduce the number of glasses used.
• Finally, have some easily accessible non-alcoholic drinks available for those who are not drinking.
  

Side Note - Have a contingency plan for guests who consume a little too much. Have designated drivers and taxis available. Be prepared to drive or accommodate guests if they have no other way to get home.