TIPS TO HOSTING A GREAT COCKTAIL PARTY

Throwing a great cocktail party requires a lot of planning, enabling yours guests to enjoy themselves require an excellent host.  Here are some tips to help make your next cocktail party a memorable one:

SET THE MOOD

Stock the bar with a diversity of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and hors d’oeuvres or appetizers.  If necessary, re-arrange your space so that your guests don’t feel cramped – create comfortable seating areas that encourage conversation amongst your guests. Dimmed lighting or candles with fresh flowers create a pleasant atmosphere.

WELCOME YOUR GUESTS

Try to greet ALL of your guests at the door as they arrive.  Offer to take their coats and have a room/closet prepared to store coats during the party.  Tell them where you’re putting their coats, and any other belongings, so that they know where to look if needed.  Send them to the party area while to put their belongings away.

INTRODUCE PEOPLE

While you don’t have to twist some of your guests’ arm to mingle, others may not be as much of a social butterfly.  Because some people may already know each other, cliques can form and this can dampen the mood of the party- so as the host, be creative… Mix things up.  Find a couple of people and introduce them- bring up a topic that you know they are both interested in. Get the conversation rolling and move on to the next!

ENJOY YOUR PARTY!

Your energy and demeanor will set the tone of the party, so you must be pleasant and sociable from beginning to end.  If your guests see you tired and stresses, they may start to feel uncomfortable and depart early.  But if you’re relaxed and amusing, it’ll help loosen up the demeanor of your guests.