Ladies, are you aware that World Cocktail Day (May 13) is coming up? Do you have plans to host a little springtime soiree for your friends or co-workers?
If so, we have a few tips for you. Simple and sophisticated is our modus operandi (M.O.) and we know how to throw a glamorous cocktail party, effortlessly.
In fact, that is the name of a new blog series we are starting: Effortless Glamour.
Because who doesn’t want to be, have and do that?
So, we have a fail-proof line up of do’s for hosting a perfectly poised party, especially when you are busy with work!
Feel free to bookmark this one because you will refer to it again and again.
Cocktail Party: What Drinks to Serve
We suggest selecting only two cocktails to serve. This gives your guests a choice without causing unnecessary stress with too many decisions. We also like one to be classic and the other to be more modern. We are a timeless bunch here at Mercury Clothiers but, who knows, you may be introducing your guests to something they’ve never tried before. Listed below are some of our faves — in case you need a little inspiration.
Choose ingredients that are widely sold and purchase the ingredients well in advance. There is nothing worse that running around to different shops the day before trying to find everything you need. We also recommend having two different types of alcohol, to appeal to your guests’ varied tastes.
Mix each drink ahead of time and pour into decanters or glass pitchers for a timeless presentation. You will be able to enjoy the party more when you aren’t making individual pours for each guest.
Here are some of our favorite tried and true cocktail combinations:
- Mint Julep & Sangria
- Martini & Sidecar
- Gin + Tonic & Gimlet
- Cosmopolitan & Champagne Cocktail
Looking for more inspiration? Click here to browse more luxury libations — or click here see the 30 best-selling cocktails in 2018!
Event Planning: Step Up Your Glassware
Inline with pouring your pre-mixed cocktails into glass decanters or pitchers, you need to offer your guests nice glasses to drink out of as well. Little details like your stem and glassware make the party feel more official and that is what we are after.
Be sure serve your cocktails in their designated glasses. There are glasses designed specifically to hold certain alcohols for a reason! Do not underestimate or dismiss this fact. The visual aspect will elevate your party and allow the drink to taste as it is meant to. Click here for more information on which glasses to use for what cocktails.
We have found that Crate & Barrel sells quite inexpensive, but very beautiful glassware. Also, think about looking on Etsy or in Anthropologie for some vintage (or vintage-inspired) glasses! Now those would be a real treat. Just be careful with washing them. They will be more fragile.
Cocktail Party Locations: Where to Host your Sweet Soiree
Your first thought is probably to host your cocktail party at your house. Of course you can do that. It is a great way to get to know people on a more personal level outside of work. Your environment affects your mood too so taking the party elsewhere can lighten people’s minds and allow them to relax better.
Speaking of environments affecting our moods, be sure you read The Magic of Tidying Up: Spring Cleaning For The Mind, Closet, And Workspace!
On the contrary, there can be some great cocktail parties at work. Sometimes they are just more practical. For instance: if your coworkers or employees live an hour or more from work, it won’t be feasible for everyone to drive that distance for the party and then drive all the way back to their own homes.
Speak with your boss first to make sure bringing alcohol into the office is allowed.
Cocktail Dress and More: What to Wear
This is the question on every woman’s mind when it comes to an event! It is sort of a glorious problem to have, really. Having a choice is better than not having one, right?. Well, if you went to work wearing a Mercury Clothiers piece, you don’t need to think about it any longer. You are already dressed to impress!
Although it’s not exactly a cocktail dress, our signature dress comes in gorgeous colors and has unique tailored details. You won’t want to take it off after work and you won’t have to. You will feel effortlessly fabulous at your cocktail party without changing a thing.
As our line is in production, we can’t be the star of the show yet. So, look for something sophisticated, conservative and fitted.
Cocktail parties aren’t just for dresses either. If you’re wearing a pantsuit, you will be just as stylish. Opt for a wide-leg trouser for an elegant alternative.
For a little extra sophistication, pair your dress or trousers with a jacket. All of our jackets will have bracelet sleeves which means less tailoring for you and a chance to show off your jewelry. Until ours debut, find one that makes you feel invincible. Maybe one with tweed or a vintage-twist.
Are you ready to throw your own cocktail party? Here’s a little recap to help you prepare:
- Make your drinks ahead of time
- Serve your drinks in their appropriate glasses
- Host your soiree at home or at work
- Don a fitted dress or wide-leg pantsuit
We have no doubt you will host a fabulous fête. We would love to hear what cocktails you plan to serve — let us know in a comment below!
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