what do you drink at a cocktail party

How do you prepare for a cocktail party?

How to Throw a Cocktail Party

• Method 1 Method 1 of 10: Location. ...
• Method 2 Method 2 of 10: Guest list. ...
• Method 3 Method 3 of 10: Dress code. ...
• Method 4 Method 4 of 10: Invitations. ...
• Method 5 Method 5 of 10: Drinks. ...
• Method 6 Method 6 of 10: Food. ...
• Method 7 Method 7 of 10: Music. ...
• Method 8 Method 8 of 10: Setup. ...
• Method 9 Method 9 of 10: Decorations. ...

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How do you set up a cocktail party?

Things You'll Need

• Table
• Tablecloth
• Rugs
• Place mats
• Kitchen towels
• Hard liquor, such as rum, vodka, tequila, whiskey, scotch and gin
• Wine
• Beer
• Garnishes
• Wastebasket

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How to send invitations for a cocktail party?

Other cocktail party invitation tips include:

• Create excitement for your event with your wording – cocktail parties should be fun!
• Keep it simple with plain fonts, which are easy to read
• Make it clear your guests are being invited to a special event right from your headline
• Incorporate white space in your design to enhance readability
• Centered text is acceptable and often preferred

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How to make perfect cocktails?

• 1 oz simple syrup of your choice
• 3-4 oz tonic (or other mixer)
• Lime wedge
• Mint sprig, for garnish

What are the basic drinks for cocktails?

Basic Mixed-Drink Recipes Everyone Should MasterOld Fashioned (1 sugar cube, 3 dashes bitters, splash of club soda, 2 ounces brown spirit)Martini (4 parts spirit, 1 part fortified wine)Daiquiri (3 parts rum, 2 parts lime, 1 part sugar)Margarita (3 parts tequila, 2 parts triple sec, 1 part lime juice)More items...•

What are the 6 basic cocktails?

They are the Old Fashioned, Martini, Daiquiri, Sidecar, Whiskey Highball, and Flip. In each drink, every ingredient falls into at least one category.

What drinks do you serve during cocktail hour?

Offering options is a great way to keep your guests happy, even when you're limiting the type of alcohol that you're serving. Being that they're both budget-friendly and helpful with incident prevention, beer and wine are excellent cocktail hour beverage options.

What are the 5 most popular cocktails?

Here are 10 of the most popular cocktails that will always be in style.Margarita. As the most ordered cocktail in the world, the classic Margarita has been one of the most popular cocktails in America for years and still remains on top. ... Cosmopolitan. ... Daiquiri. ... Gimlet. ... Manhattan. ... Negroni. ... Old Fashioned. ... Espresso Martini.More items...

Which cocktail is best for beginners?

20 easy cocktails to make at homeMojito. This refreshing mojito cocktail screams summertime. ... Tom Collins. In our experience, simple recipes are usually the best. ... Sex on the beach. ... Piña colada. ... Classic negroni. ... Martini. ... Cosmopolitan. ... Whiskey sour.More items...•

What are the 7 classic cocktails?

The 7 essential cocktails every drinker should know how to makeMartini.Manhattan.Negroni.Old-Fashioned.Gin and Tonic.Daiquiri.Margarita.

What should you not do in a cocktail?

DON'T Stir or Shake Unnecessarily Keep in mind that shaking a drink with ice will dilute the drink a bit. However, in this situation, it's necessary to help the ingredients blend.

What are the most popular drinks during happy hour?

Popular happy hour beverages include gin and tonics, margaritas, Greyhounds, martinis, and Cosmopolitans. Happy hours also include drinks like rosé wine, summer shandies, and whiskey.

What is the proper cocktail hour?

Try a 30 minute cocktail hour before the ceremony to welcome your guests, and then a standard 60 minute cocktail hour after the ceremony ends. A pre-ceremony cocktail hour may also be a good idea if you need to accommodate shuttle bus schedules or early guests.

Which cocktail is good for ladies?

12 classy cocktails for a girls' nightPina colada.Vodka spritz.Vodka and watermelon punch.Peachy keen.Moscow mule.Espresso martini.Negroni.Vodka lime and soda.More items...

What are some classy cocktails?

10 Classy Drink Orders That Are Sure to Impress on a First DateMartini. PIN IT. Photo courtesy of liquor.com. ... Old Fashioned. PIN IT. Photo courtesy of mentalfloss.com. ... Moscow Mule. PIN IT. Photo courtesy of @earlsdadeland on Instagram. ... Dark & Stormy. PIN IT. ... Bellini. PIN IT. ... Gin and Tonic. PIN IT. ... Sidecar. PIN IT. ... Vieux Carré PIN IT.More items...•

What are the most requested cocktails?

The 10 Most Popular CocktailsNegroni. ... Mojito. ... Whiskey Sour. ... Daiquiri. ... Margarita. ... Mai Tai. Victor Bergeron created the Mai Tai at his restaurant located in Oakland in 1944. ... Bloody Mary. Fernand Petiot invented the Bloody Mary in 1921. ... Manhattan. There is not a confirmed story on who created the Manhattan cocktail.More items...

What are the six 6 main cocktail garnishes that every bar should have?

The next time you're making your grocery list, add these must-have garnishes.Olives. Martinis are as classic of a cocktail as you'll find anywhere, and olives are a cornerstone of the dirty martini that should be in every bartender's portfolio.Maraschino Cherries. ... Limes. ... Lemons. ... Rosemary. ... Salt. ... Cinnamon. ... Mint Leaves.More items...•

What are the four basic cocktails?

In an attempt to demystify the always delightful but often murky path to cocktail enlightenment, we present four basic cocktail categories: sours, fizzes, Old-Fashioneds and three-parters.

What is the most common cocktail?

The Most Popular Cocktails List NationwideRankCocktail1Margarita2Martini3Old Fashioned4Mimosa1 more row

What are the 5 basic methods of preparing cocktails?

5 Easy Methods of Making CocktailBuilding Method.Stirring Method.Shaking Method.Blending Method.Layering Method.

What to serve at a cocktail party?

Some tried-and-true cocktail party foods such as crostini and crudités or cut veggies and crackers with a homemade dip like cauliflower hummus are perfect. Even something as simple as a platter of cheese, crackers, and cut fruit will be appreciated by guests. Try to add one showstopping bite that's simple to make. Fig crostini, for instance, is quick to prep and puts a unique twist on a party favorite.

How long is a cocktail party?

The average cocktail party lasts two to three hours, during which guests snack on a simple spread of food and imbibe on great cocktails while chatting with other guests. It's a fairly easy event to plan because there are so many options available. Featured Video.

How many people are allowed at a cocktail party?

They're great for entertaining friends or business associates, and a guest list of around 10 people creates an intimate affair that is manageable for the host. On a larger scale, cocktail parties are also excellent for open houses and receptions, both business and personal.

What is a full bar?

Full Bar: This option allows guests to choose their favorite drinks. It works best if you already have a well-stocked bar or are willing to buy the essential spirits and can mix up various drinks (or have a good bartending guide ). It's also a good approach for larger parties with a designated bartender.

What is the most hands free drink?

Pitcher Cocktails: This is the most hands-free option because the drinks are ready to go, and guests can help themselves. For variety, choose a couple of drinks to mix up in pitchers ahead of time and keep them chilled (hold any carbonated mixers until it's time to serve). Set the pitchers on a table with glasses, garnishes, and an ice bucket, and you're free to mingle.

Can you have a cocktail party with a full course meal?

It's not intended to be dinner, so you don't need to plan a full course meal for a cocktail party. Simple foods, such as hors d'oeuvres and finger foods, allow guests to nibble throughout the event as they feel the need.

Can you take care of a small cocktail party?

For small cocktail parties, you may be able to take care of everything on your own. That becomes more difficult and stressful as the guest list grows. You want to socialize and have fun too, so you might need some help. Ask friends or family if they can assist with the food or bartend at the event.

What should a host of a party drink?

The host should consider purchasing rum, vodka, whiskey, and gin for the party. By sticking to the basics, he or she should be able to prepare a drink for anyone. The host should also be sure to buy mixers to go with the liquor, and popular choices include cola and lemon-lime soda, and fruit juices such as orange juice and cranberry juice. He or she shouldn't need to buy the most expensive brand name liquors, but for reasons of taste, should probably try to stay away from the cheapest brands as well.

What is a martini?

A martini is a classic cocktail party drink.

What to have with liquor?

It's a good idea to have fruit juices and mixers to go with liquor.

What is the best liquor to mix with tonic water?

An extremely popular liquor for mixed drinks is gin . The gin and tonic, a simple yet time-tested drink, consists of 2 shots of gin mixed with tonic water, served on ice. Since gin has an extremely dry flavor, hosts may want to consider mixing it with orange juice as well.

What should a host serve at a cocktail party?

At a cocktail party, the host may consider serving wine or beer as well, since not everyone enjoys mixed drinks. He or she should have a good supply of non-alcoholic beverages as well, including water. Of course, the host shouldn't forget to have a ready supply of glasses and cups available. For additional drink ideas, the host may want to ask a favorite local bartender for recommendations.

Why do people host cocktail parties?

With so many options, it can be difficult to choose which drinks to serve. By supplying a variety of mixed drinks, a host can ensure that he or she meets everyone's tastes.

Can you mix whiskey with alcohol?

Whisky can be combined with a number of different alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

What are some good appetizers for a cocktail party?

Party in style with these classic cocktail party appetizers, from crab dip and cocktail wieners to stuffed mushrooms and tiny toasts.

What is Chef John's shrimp toast?

Chef John's Shrimp Toast. These cocktail party toasts don't get the attention they deserve. "While virtually unknown compared to most other popular party snacks, these shrimp toasts are easy to make and every bit as delicious, and addictive, as Buffalo wings or jalapeño poppers," Chef John says. 10.

What makes a cocktail party classic?

What makes a cocktail party classic? Exceptional drinks and lively chatter, for one and two. But also delicious bites that keep the conversation rolling and the booze from kicking a little too strong. Here are some of our favorite time-tested cocktail party appetizers to pair with your classic cocktails, including top-rated recipes for crab dip, cocktail wieners, coconut shrimp, stuffed mushroom, puffed poppers, tiny toasts, and much more.

What are mushroom caps?

Mushroom caps make perfect little containers for delivering delicious cheese, bacon, and caramelized onions to your mouth! "Love it!" raves MsGracie. "My husband said, 'We are bringing this to every party we go to.'"

What to do with grape jelly in a slow cooker?

You'll love the sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Make whatever subs you like: try a spicy BBQ sauce and apricot preserves; or use meatballs or cut up hotdogs instead of the little smokies. Slow Cooker Cocktail Smokies.

What cheese goes well with sour cream?

Cream cheese and sour cream pair up with Cheddar cheese, herbs, and seasonings in this true classic party snack. The best part of baking the dip in a bread bowl? You can devour the bowl! There's no serving dish to clean when you've eaten the delicious evidence.

What are pot stickers filled with?

"You can fill them with anything you want and as full as you want. And the play between the crispy, crusty bottom, and the tender parts, makes for a truly unique dumpling. These are filled with ground pork, green onions, ginger, and cabbage."

How important is it to RSVP to a party?

How important is it to actually RSVP to the party? If the invitation says “RSVP”, it is crucial to respond. The invitation is specifically and explicitly asking you to. If the invitation does not say “RSVP ,” then it is not important to respond. If the invitation says “RSVP with regrets only” then respond only if you cannot make it. If you’re a host asking for RSVP, then be sure to include a “by date” so that you don’t have responses trickling in at the last minute. And as a guest, be sure to follow the “by date.”

What do you do if the party host has a shoes off policy?

But see the answer above to this question. If your host unexpectedly asks you to remove shoes (which is rude), it is, in this case, you’re right to politely say , “I’d really prefer to leave them on if you don’t mind.”

How to make people not go into certain areas of the house?

How do you make it so people don’t go into certain areas of the house? Keep doors closed to rooms that are not being used for the party. To prevent people from going up or downstairs, place a chair or stool in front of the steps and brighten it up with a vase of flowers. If you think guests may wander around in an effort to find the restroom, print or draw a cute sign with an arrow towards the restrooms, and place it in a picture frame to divert guests in the right direction.

How to gently ask people to leave a party?

How do you gently ask people to leave? A great way to signal that the party is coming to a close without having to directly and verbally ask guests to leave is to gradually start turning on lights, turning down the music, and beginning the cleanup.

Is it rude to ask people to take their shoes off?

Is it rude to ask people to take their shoes off? Yes! If you don’t want people walking in their shoes in your home, cocktail party etiquette would suggest not hosting a party! Or, take your party outdoors if you’re that concerned about the possibility of dirt and germs coming into your home from guests’ shoes. A good cleaning the next day will erase any little remnants from shoes, but if it truly bothers you then host your party at another venue. It is so embarrassing and awkward for guests to remove their shoes

When do you need to bring a gift?

When I’m invited to a party, do I need to bring a gift? This is on a case by case basis. When you SHOULD: 1.) When the party is held in the host’s home, and 2.) When are you attending a party outside of someone’s home in celebration of a guest of honor (birthday party, retirement, 50th anniversary, shower, etc.). When it’s NOT expected: 1.) When you are attending a party outside of someone’s home and it is not a celebration for a guest of honor, and 2.) When the party is held in the host’s home but the invitation says “In lieu of gifts”. When you should bring a gift, what kind of gift to bring? If you know the host or guest of honor drinks, then a bottle of wine is always a welcome and safe bet. Otherwise, fresh flowers or something for the home such as a scented candle is a wonderful gift for any occasion.

When is it not expected to be a guest of honor?

When it’s NOT expected: 1.) When you are attending a party outside of someone’s home and it is not a celebration for a guest of honor, and 2.) When the party is held in the host’s home but the invitation says “In lieu of gifts”.

What is business etiquette at a cocktail party?

A cocktail party is a social gathering after work hours, which includes drinks, light refreshments, and an intimate guest list. Guests are encouraged to mingle and have conversation in a relaxing environment that allows for interaction outside of work. Cocktail parties are an opportunity for both entertaining ...

What time is a cocktail buffet?

A cocktail buffet is typically held between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. and during the business week. A buffet dinner is served, allowing guests to mingle, discuss business, or announce a new initiative. A cocktail buffet requires business dress and should be indicated on the invitation.

What is a cocktail reception?

Cocktail receptions are the most formal of the three types of cocktail parties and are usually reserved for making significant announcements, honoring a guest, or celebrating an important event . Business, professional, or formal dress is required.

Why do people have cocktail parties?

The success of the event relies on proper cocktail party etiquette. Parties are held for several reasons: To show your company's gratitude for previous work.

How long is a cocktail party?

By definition, a cocktail party is typically around two hours long. It generally begins after 5 p.m., and ends before 7:30 p.m. Dress is casual or formal, based on the invitation you send. Dinner is not served at a cocktail party, although finger foods and hors d'oeuvres are expected.

How to maintain a suitable traffic pattern for your guests?

Maintain a suitable traffic pattern for your guests by separating the bar away from the buffet table to prevent congestion.

What is the function of hosting a formal event?

You may be required to perform different functions. Your main function is to mingle with your guests. You may also be required to announce and introduce speakers, offer toasts, and act as the master of ceremonies.