Things to ponder upon while hosting a Cocktail party

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Hosting a Cocktail Party
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What is a Cocktail Party?

• Cocktail parties have been a popular social
  gathering for years.
• They were a hit during the first few decades of
  the 1900's, were fueled by Prohibition and died
  off a little during the last part of the century,
  but they're back.
• Typically a cocktail party lasts 2-3 hours during
  which guests snack on a simple spread of food and
  imbibe on great cocktails while chatting with
  other guests.
•  Cocktail parties are great for entertaining
  friends or business associates, or a combination
  of the two.
• They're also great for open houses or receptions,
  both business and personal.

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1. Party Decisions

• A cocktail party can be as simple or complex as
  you wish to make it.
• There are a few questions you should ask yourself
  to begin planning the party.
• How many guests will be attending?
• Is this a casual event for friends or a formal
  business networking event?
• How much time and effort do I want to put into
  it?
• Will there be a full bar or a limited cocktail
  menu?
• Will the party be indoor or outdoor? If outdoor,
  do I have a plan for inclimate weather?
• What type of food will be served?
• Is there a theme for the party?
• Should guests be asked to bring anything?
• How much money do I want to spend?

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2. The Food

• A full course meal is not necessary for a
  cocktail party.
• Simple foods, such as hors d'oeuvres and other
  finger foods, allow guests to graze throughout
  the event as they feel the need.
•  Even something as simple as a cheese, crackers
  and cut fruit is perfect.
• To be a good host you should have some kind of
  food available and if you don't want to deal with
  food at all, call a caterer or book a venue.

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3. The Drinks

• The drinks are the most important part of a
  cocktail party
• and there are two options.
• Full Bar- Buy essential spirits, mix up a variety
  of drinks or get a good bartending guide.
• Drink Menu- Make up a list of the drinks
  (including ingredients) and set it on the bar for
  guests to peruse.

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4. The Venue

• When choosing a location, think about the season
  and theme of your party.
• Arrange furniture so that guests can move
  throughout the banquet room easily- there should
  be seating for 10 to 15 percent of your guests.
• Don't forget to include small drop tables where
  guests can put used glasses or napkins.
• Place a tray on the table to signal that it's a
  drop-off area. This will also make it easier for
  you to pick up any discarded items.

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Planning a party? Find the best
venue/caterer for office or social parties get
the best negotiated rates for free. Visit
www.urbanrestro.com or call 9967581110. Mumbai.
Pune. Delhi. Bangalore. Ahmedabad