5 Tips for Hosting a Summer Cocktail Soiree

Take advantage of the cool night breeze and moonlight setting to organize a summer cocktail party under the stars. A summer cocktail party is a wonderful way to gather your adult friends for delicious summer cocktails without worrying about entertaining a bunch of energetic kids.

Plan a fun summer menu of finger foods to complement a simple, but elegant cocktail list. Simple summer cocktails to make include white sangria, margaritas, and mojitos. Make pitchers of all three and let guests serve themselves based on what they feel like. Don't forget to stock up wine as well!

Here are five tips for planning your summer cocktail soiree to ensure your kids-free evening goes off without a hitch! 

  • Send out fun invitations to your friends to let them know the details of the event. Use the Punchbowl Potluck feature to have your friends sign up appetizers, like cheese and crackers, chips and guacamole, or other favorite dishes.
  • Set up plenty of tiki-torches, colorful lanterns, or Citronella candles outside to provide mood lighting and keep pesky insects away. Nobody wants a mosquito in their mojito! This will also help create the perfect ambience as the sun goes down.

Summer cocktail party ideas

5 Tips for Hosting a Summer Cocktail Soiree

  • Stock up on plenty of cocktail napkins. A good rule of thumb is to have about six napkins per guest. If you choose to have a colored theme for your summer cocktail party, napkins are a good way to incorporate the theme into your decorating and party supplies.
  • Play music in the background to set the tone for your cocktail party. If you want your party to be more sophisticated and elegant, play classical music or jazz. For a more casual summer cocktail party, make a fun playlist with all of your friends’ favorite songs.
  • Make sure you have plenty of ice for your cocktail party. You will need it to chill wine bottles and for serving drinks on the rocks. About 1 pound of ice per guest is a good estimate for how much ice you will need for your party.

It's also a good idea to make sure you have plenty of outdoor seating if you plan to hold the party outside. If necessary, bring chairs outside from in the house or consider renting some extra outdoor seating for the party.

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