Cocktail parties can come in all shapes and sizes. They can be large and opulent or as cozy and intimate as you like. In this guide, we’ll show you how to throw a thoughtful cocktail party right at home, either by yourself or with a helpful partner. We’ll focus on hosting for a crowd that easily fits in your space. If you’re expecting more than 20 guests, it might be a good idea to hire a bartender and catering, or even book an event space. But no matter the size or ambiance you’re going for, an at-home cocktail party is a fantastic way to connect with your community.
Cocktail Party Planning
A cocktail party can be tailored to your preferences, whether you prefer something simple and casual or more elevated and curated. Begin planning by asking yourself a few key questions for your party:
- How many guests will you invite?
- What is the purpose of bringing everyone together?
- How much time and effort are you willing to invest?
- What is your budget? (think about cost per head)
- Will the party be indoors or outdoors?
- Do you have contingency plans for bad weather?
- What type of food will you serve?
For smaller cocktail parties, you may be able to handle everything independently. However, as the guest list grows, it can become increasingly challenging and stressful. In such cases, consider hiring professional help. Catering companies often offer bartending services, professional bartenders can be hired independently, and aspiring bartenders might appreciate the experience. University students looking to make extra cash can be a great place to start. Regardless, make sure to have a contract in place that covers all the necessary details before the event.
Cocktail Party Format
Cocktail parties usually go on for about two to three hours. During this time, guests enjoy delicious cocktails and munch on a variety of tasty bites while mingling with other guests. Planning a cocktail party can be a breeze when approached thoughtfully. Thinks to consider when deciding on your cocktail party format:
- What are the preferred spirits/drinks for your group?
- Opt for budget-friendly bottles to reduce cost
- Will some guests prefer wine or beer over cocktails? Adjust supplies accordingly
- Plan for one drink an hour per person
- Are there any alcohol-free people in the group? What is an option for them?
Full Bar
This options gives your guests the freedom to select their preferred beverages. For it to be successful, it’s ideal to already have a fully stocked bar or be ready to purchase the necessary spirits and be capable of mixing different drinks (or have a handy bartending guide). This option also works well for larger parties that have a dedicated bartender.
Check out our Home Bar Essentials Guide.
Drink Menu
This encourages your group to get adventurous and try out different drinks and discover something new! This option also saves you some cash by using fewer ingredients. Create a drink menu with a mix of two or three options, including a popular classic cocktail and a unique and intriguing concoction.
For a larger group, print the menu and include the ingredients so you don’t have to explain each choice individually.
Pre-batched Cocktails or Punches
The easiest way to serve drinks at a gathering is to make them in advance and let people help themselves. Seasonal punch recipes are always a great communal-friendly option. Or to mix things up, pick a few classic cocktails and prepare them in pitchers ahead of time (remember to add the bubbly stuff later when you’re ready to serve). Place the pitchers on a table with glasses, garnishes, and an ice bucket, and you’re all set to socialize.
Note: while this option is the easiest, it also creates higher risk of waste when made in excess.
Food
Remember it is not intended to be dinner, so you don’t need multi-course menu for a cocktail party. Keep it simple with hors d’oeuvres and finger foods that guests can enjoy throughout the event. Classic options like crostini, crudités, and homemade dips like salsa or hummus are perfect. Even a platter of cheese, crackers, and cut fruit will be a hit. Don’t forget to wow your guests with one standout bite, like a quick and tasty cocktail meatballs or fig and brie crostini.
Cocktail Party Supplies
Cocktails are the most important thing at a cocktail party. To ensure everyone’s thirst is quenched, aim for a generous provision of two to three beverages per person. Be prepared with a selection of wine, beer, and water. Don’t forget to consider the non-drinkers in attendance and have nonalcoholic options or mocktails to offer them. Keep in mind, your list of supplies will ultimately depend on the specific format you choose for your soirée.
If you’re considering offer a signature cocktail that will be widely enjoyed, include one option featuring a rich spirit such as whiskey or aged rum, and another showcasing a lighter spirit like blanco tequila or gin. Consider preparing a large batch of a cocktail in advance, preferably one with a simple and short ingredient list that can be made ahead of time. A Negroni or a Margarita are always reliable choices, or you can surprise your guests with a unique and unfamiliar drink.
Cocktail Essentials
- Spirits: Vodka, gin, whiskey, dark rum, blanco tequila, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, orange liqueur, Campari, Aperol, prosecco
- Mixers: Club soda, tonic water, cola, ginger beer, lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice
- Garnishes: Lemons, limes, oranges, maraschino cherries, green olives, sugar cubes or simple syrup
- Ice: Bags of quality ice (get more than you think you need)
Bar Supplies
- Mixing glass, spoon, and strainer
- Shaking tin
- Ice bucket
- Ice scoop
- Wine key/bottle opener
- Wine and beer cooler
- Cups for both water and cocktails (get more than you think you need)
- Cocktail napkins
- Bowls or dishes for garnishes and toothpicks
- Pitchers (water, pre-batched drinks, juice, etc.)
- Punch bowl (if serving punch)
- Dump bucket (for liquid waste, if no sink)
- Garbage receptacle
- Busing tray
Food Supplies
- Small plates
- Napkins
- Serving trays
- Serving utensils
- Small bowls for dips
- Large bowls for chips
- Discard bowl (used toothpicks, shrimp tails, etc.)
Plan for more when it comes to ice and cups. Ice is essential for both cocktail mixing and serving, as well as keeping wine and beer chilled. If you choose disposable cups, remember a new cup will be needed for each beverage. Alternatively, if using glassware, plan for a minimum of two glasses per guest.
Party Space Set Up
If you’re expecting a good number of guests, consider rearranging your furniture to accommodate everyone. Transform your dining table into a buffet station by moving it to the side, and store the dining chairs or strategically place them around the living room for additional seating options. In case you’re hosting in a spacious room, outdoors, or across multiple areas, it’s a great idea to set up multiple smaller food tables to encourage guests to explore the space. For convenience, create a separate area for the bar, ensuring easy access by dedicating a table or counter specifically for serving drinks. Now for the ambiance:
Supplies to Set the Scene
- Table clothes
- Flowers
- Candles/hanging lights/fire place
- Music
- Bug repellent (if outdoors)
“The most important thing for having a party is that the hostess is having fun. I’m very organized. I make a plan for absolutely everything. I never have anything that has to be cooked while the guests are there. The only thing I might have to do is take something out of the oven and carve it.”
~Ina Garten
Cocktail Party Tips
Throwing your first cocktail party may seem overwhelming initially, but it becomes easier and more enjoyable as you gain experience. Remember, aiming for flawless perfection only adds unnecessary stress; after all, this is meant to be a fun occasion. Don’t forget to enjoy your own party! Creating a checklist of tasks and items you’ll need, tick them off one by one, will help things will turn out fantastic.
- Send invitations two to three weeks in advance and request an RSVP
- Having quality ice dramatically improves cocktails
- Add a “WOW” factor. This could be a signature drink, flashy garnish, specialty food dish, or whatever fits the theme of your party.
- Don’t forget to take pictures. Ask a close friend who’s more camera-inclined to help
- Staying hydrated is crucial. Have a generous pitcher of water available at the bar so that your guests can help themselves
- Do a sweep of the party half way through and clear trash and empty glasses
- Consider to-go containers to send extra food home with your guests
- AND when you are the guest at someone else’s cocktail party, remember not to arrive empty handed! A bottle of wine is always appreciated.
As a responsible host, it is necessary to ensure the well-being of your party attendees. It is important to be mindful of guests who have consumed alcohol in excess, intervene when necessary, and assist them in arranging a secure means of transportation back home.