Cocktail Party Ideas

Need some unique cocktail party ideas? With so many party planning possibilities from the theme to the décor, choosing the theme is the biggest challenge! Here are some fun cocktail party ideas to help you throw a successful soirée.

• Pick a Theme: Choosing a theme for your cocktail party makes it more interesting than just a gathering with drinks. It also makes the rest of the planning easier because it serves as a guideline for your decorations, invitations and menu. Themes can be anything from colors, time periods or hobbies:
  • A Black & White Affair
  • Hollywood Glam
  • The Roaring 20s
  • Disco Fever: 70s
  • Gold & Silver
  • Nautical

• Invitations: Once you have picked a theme, design your digital invitation. Include some witty invitation wording and important party details. Send out your cocktail party invites 3-4 weeks in advance to give your guests enough time to plan and RSVP.

• Party Décor: Cocktail parties are for mingling and socializing so your party décor should reflect a sophisticated vibe. Use your theme to help you decide on colors for place settings, flowers, table covers, and favors. Place candles throughout the party, at the entrance and in bathrooms. Use flowers and candles as centerpieces to create an instant intimate ambiance. You can also add theme-inspired items on tables and walls if appropriate.

• Party Menu: Focus on making flavorful finger foods that a guest can easily eat while talking or mingling. Some popular cocktail party foods that all of your guest will love are: shrimp cocktail, cheese platters, crudité, mini beef sliders, chicken skewers, and mini cupcakes and brownies. Be creative and display food on platters at different heights to give the table a layered look.

• Drinks: A cocktail party isn't complete without drinks! Instead of doing the typical open bar with an assortment of liquor, wine, and beer, pick two signature cocktails for the evening based on your theme. Or try setting up a champagne bar for a more elegant drink display. Style up an area with champagne glasses, champagne, an assortment of freshly squeezed juices and garnishes. Letting everyone create their own champagne cocktails is a fun yet refined way to get your guests excited about your party. Here's one recipe we're loving:

Lemon Whiskey Cocktail

Ingredients

• 2 oz. whiskey of your choice
• 3/4 oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 3/4 oz. simple syrup
• 1/2 oz. club soda
• sprig of mint

Preparation

• Add whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup and ice into a cocktail shaker. 
• Shake and strain into a cocktail glass filled with ice.
• Garnish with mint and enjoy!

Throw a cocktail party for friends and then make it a monthly get together so you see each other regularly and have a chance to relax.