How to Plan a Last Minute Cocktail Party

There are three ingredients you need to throw a successful last-minute cocktail party; guests, a stocked bar, and a sense of fun! You may decide you want to have one this weekend or you may have a little more time up your sleeve – it’s for next weekend! So you have a minimal amount of time to organize your cocktail party, definitely not enough time to make and send out invitations. Here are the steps you should follow for your last-minute event:

1. Immediately call up everyone you want to invite. All of them won’t be able to come but you should expect about two-thirds of them to turn up. Cocktail parties usually last two hours so give your guests a start and finish time.

2. Make a list of everything that needs to be done so you can stay focused.

3. Have you got any snacks in the freezer? You do? Good. That will be less cooking for you. If you don’t, you’ll want some finger foods that you can make easily or purchase from the store. As soon as you’ve called your guests, decide on your menu (keep it very simple) then visit the grocery store for your requirements.

4. Check your liquor supplies. What do you need to replenish for the party? Set up a bar to serve the cocktails. Hire a bartender or ask one of the guests prior to the party if they would be happy to play barman. Being a last-minute party you may have to opt for asking a friend.

5. Decide on only a few cocktails to be served. If you are throwing your cocktail party due to an event (the Oscars, the Races, Election Day) then maybe your signature cocktail could tie in with your theme. Ensure you have beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks available to suit all tastes. Make sure you have enough glasses for your guests. If you don’t you may need to purchase an inexpensive set of martini or champagne glasses at the home store. Theyíll come in handy the next time you decide to have a cocktail party!

6. If you can’t set up a separate bar and don’t want to serve anything more complicated than a champagne cocktail you can get away with an ice-filled cooler for drinks. This works well if you are having your cocktail party outside in the summer.

7. Tidy your house the day before the party. Clear away as much furniture as possible. Cocktail parties are for socializing, not hiding in a corner.

8. Fill all your ice cube trays and freeze the day before.

9. Select appropriate music for your cocktail party and have it playing just before the guests arrive.

10. Put on your cocktail dress and you’re ready to party