Your guests will appreciate a variety of options, so stock your bar with the basics: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and bourbon. Don’t forget mixers like soda, tonic water, juices, and simple syrup, as well as a variety of garnishes such as citrus, herbs, and olives.

Bonus: Pre-batch some cocktails, like margaritas or Negronis, so guests can serve themselves without having to wait for each individual drink to be made.

A variety of glasses can enhance the cocktail experience. Make sure to have the right glassware for different types of drinks, such as martini glasses, rocks glasses, and highball glasses. Ensure there are plenty of clean glasses and consider renting extra if your collection is limited.

Pro Tip: Chill the glasses in the fridge or freezer before serving for an added touch of class.

Music can make or break the ambiance of your cocktail party. Create a playlist that’s lively but not too overpowering. A mix of jazz, funk, or upbeat lounge music works well. Make sure the music is loud enough to be heard but quiet enough so that people can comfortably talk without shouting.

Tip: If you have a longer party planned, switch up the music throughout the night to keep the energy flowing.

Cocktail parties aren’t typically about large meals, but you’ll want to provide a range of small bites that pair well with drinks. Think finger foods, charcuterie boards, sliders, or elegant canapés. Make sure to offer both savory and sweet options to balance out the drink menu.

Pro Tip: Choose foods that are easy to eat and won’t require a lot of utensils to avoid a mess.

Lighting is key to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Dim the main lights and supplement with candles, fairy lights, or soft lamps. Avoid overly bright lighting, which can make the environment feel harsh.

Bonus: Use a mix of candles at different heights and lanterns for outdoor parties to add depth and visual interest.

Hiring a bartender is ideal, but if you don’t have the funds, set up a designated station where guests can help themselves to drinks and snacks. This will help to reduce congestion in the kitchen and allow people to mingle freely. A beautiful bar cart or a table set up with bottles, mixers, and glassware can become a stylish focal point.

Tip: Keep the station well-organized with labels and ice buckets to encourage guests to mix their own drinks.

Ice is one of the most overlooked but crucial elements of a cocktail party. Make sure you have plenty of ice—both cubed for cocktails and crushed for drinks like mojitos. You can also get creative with ice by freezing herbs or edible flowers inside for a decorative touch.

Tip: If you don’t have space to store ice, consider getting it delivered or purchasing an ice machine.

A cocktail party is all about socializing, so make sure to create areas where people can sit, stand, and mingle comfortably. Provide ample seating and make sure the furniture is arranged to encourage conversation rather than being too spread out.

Tip: If you have an outdoor space, use it! An outdoor cocktail party can feel especially luxurious with the right seating, lighting, and cozy blankets if it gets chilly.

As the host, it’s easy to get caught up in making sure everything runs smoothly, but don’t forget that this is your party too! Once the drinks are flowing and the guests are mingling, take some time to enjoy the atmosphere and your company.

Pro Tip: Delegate tasks like restocking the bar or greeting late arrivals to a trusted friend so you can enjoy the party without stress.