There’s a reason why cocktail parties are a go-to option for all kinds of occasions – they’re celebratory and social in nature! Hosting a cocktail party for your next corporate event is a great way to switch it up from the usual mingling at the water cooler. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered…
Budget, Budget, Budget
Let’s just get the boring part out of the way. We know that setting a budget isn’t fun, but it’s one of the most important pieces to throwing any successful event. So, figure out your budget, determine your needs, and allocate funds. Sounds easy, right? Here are some things you’ll want to consider when you’re mapping out your finances: venue, decor, bartender, alcohol/mixer/garnish costs, caterer, rentals (including tables, chairs, and glassware), entertainment, and any other special touches you have planned. Now, keep in mind that not all of these are necessary elements. For example, it’s totally possible to throw an awesome cocktail party without hiring a live band or a professional DJ. Obviously, adding an element of live entertainment never hurts, but use your budget as a guide to see what your party can offer.
Venue Selection
If you have a proper space in your building, like a ballroom of some sort, it’s ideal to throw your cocktail party at work. However, if you don’t, it’s time to search for an alternative venue. How many guests are you expecting? Ask yourself how many people work for your company and double that number, so that each person gets a +1. Now, it’s important to keep in mind that not everyone will attend. But, this will give you an idea of the maximum number of people you can expect to attend, so that you can plan accordingly.
When you’re choosing your venue, it’s also important to consider how formal you would like this event to be and if you’ll be having a theme. Granted, you can decorate most spaces to dress them up as much as you’d like. But if, for instance, you’re hosting a saloon-themed cocktail party, you might opt for renting out a bar or other rustic space over a sleek, modern ballroom.
All Dressed Up
As we previously mentioned, it’s important to let the party-goers know if this event is formal or themed. That way, each guest can come dressed to the nines, in character, or business casual – however you see fit! Customized invitations are a great way to introduce your event’s theme or dress and ask for an RSVP, all in one fell swoop!
But your guests aren’t the only ones who will be dressing up. Chances are, your venue will need a decorative touch to set the mood or fit your party’s theme. You can ask for volunteers to help decorate prior to the event, or rely on a party decorator to put their expertise to work.
Food & Libations!
You can’t have a cocktail party without the cocktails! This is a crucial part to throwing a successful cocktail party. Decide if you’ll be having a full bar or a cocktail menu with limited selections. Obviously a limited selection makes purchasing alcohol much easier, as you can plan your cocktail menu, determine how many drinks can be made from each bottle, and stock up accordingly. Hire a professional bartender and talk to them about your guest list and your preferences. They should be able to help you get a better idea of what to purchase. If you’re hosting a themed cocktail party, or want to have company-centric cocktails, ask your bartender to help create a special menu just for your party! Together, you can create the perfect list of cocktails to celebrate all of the hard work your company does.
It’s important to feed your guests at a cocktail party. Nobody wants a room full of people who have been drinking for 3 hours on an empty stomach! Hire a caterer to make and pass out hors d’oeuvres, or to set up a buffet table at your party. That way, guests will be able to eat as little or as much as they’d like throughout the event, while they mix and mingle with their co-workers.
Live Entertainment & Rentals
Whether or not you’re planning on having entertainment, chances are you’ll need to rely on rentals to pull off your party. Whether it’s tables, chairs, glassware, or other practical goods, make sure you have plenty of places for your guests to sit and chat, eat delicious hors d’oeuvres, and set down their drinks. Most catering teams will provide wait staff to circle the room and collect empty glasses and plates. But it’s important to make sure your bases are covered so that your event is as clean and professional as possible.
If you have room in the budget for corporate event entertainment, it’s a great addition to any cocktail party. Depending on the nature or theme of your event, you might consider a string quartet, jazz band, cover band, DJ, or other musical entertainment. Think about what types of entertainment would complement your party’s theme and keep spirits high! (Get it – spirits?)
We know your cocktail party will be the talk of the office for weeks to come!