Cocktail Party
This is a party where the cocktail is the star. It is the main event of the party and nothing should overpower it. However, the cocktail party is not about getting drunk. Cocktails are sophisticated drinks and should be treated as such; your guests should delight in their flavor, color and presentation.
The most important thing about the cocktail party is the supplies and preparation for the cocktails. First thing to remember is that alcoholic drinks are not cheap and that your guests will not want to be limited by the quantity available - so you might want to start buying early once you have decided which cocktails to serve. Alternatively, you could get your guests to bring specific alcoholic drinks.
Ice is an important factor in cocktails, so make sure you don't run out. Prepare as much as possible of the syrups, rimming of glasses and garnishes for the cocktails before the party. Make sure your recipes are easily accessible, be prepared for spills and have a separate area for dirty glasses. Having cards like the Classic Cocktails makes it easy, they lay flat on the table and spills are not a problem. The instructions are easy to read and understand.
You should take extra care to provide sufficient food so that the guests will not drink too fast, however, the food should never be the star of the party - it should be simple, tasty and sophisticated. Some serving suggestions include dips with a variety of chips and dippers, hors d'oeuvres, sandwiches, and nuts. Nuts are a great nibble food and will be consumed in larger quantity than most people realize. If you wish to serve sweets it is recommended that you limit the amount and serving portions. You might want to end the party by serving freshly brewed coffee that will have a sobering effect, and will be a great way to finalize things. Arrange all the food as a buffet.
Setting the scene is important. It is advisable not to have candles no matter how fantastic they look, as there is always a possibility of someone knocking one over and starting a fire. Do not use your best quality porcelain or glassware as there is a higher possibility of breakage at a cocktail party. Using festive props such as gold or silver latex balloons with similar colored streamers will set the festive scene. Lamps definitely set the mood - the number of guests and the intent of the party will be your guide as to the brightness and arrangement. Just remember people don't like to be blinded by lights.