The cocktail party has never been as stylish as they are today. Combining colorful and exotic drinks, flavorful appetizers, decorative accents with good friends and conversation make a successful cocktail party. The keys to a successful yet easy party is keeping it simple and remembering the details.

PRE-PLANNING
*Choose the theme
*Choose place and time

*Invite guests

Start with an uncomplicated idea or theme for the gathering. The theme can be easily obtained by taking cues from the seasons or the occasion. Anniversaries and birthdays are clear cut but if choosing a party without a special occasion in mind, the seasons or upcoming holidays can aid in the process. Focusing on a single idea will set the tone and pull the event together.

Decide now where the party will be held. Consider the weather and what spaces can be utilized to bring the occasion together. The space availability will determine the maximum amount of guests that can be invited. If choosing an outside gathering, excess furniture can be moved or rearranged to allow for more space. And last in the pre-planning, choose the date and time. When inviting, be specific with the time frame giving a start and end time and use the word "cocktail" to indicate the type of party.

PLANNING
*Choose menu and drinks
*Choose decor
*Organize

Giving a cocktail party a sense of style while keeping it unpretentious can be painless. Use basic principles and relaxed touches to create a unified look based around the theme of the party. Base the atmosphere around the seating and the cocktails which should be separated if possible to keep the areas free of congestion. Use flowers, lighting and music to set the mood and then add those final touches that bring the theme all together. The music playlist should match the theme, starting with mellow tunes and becoming more energetic as the party progresses.

A short cocktail party should consist of three different types of specialty drinks and four to five different types of appetizers. Choose simple recipes that can be easily prepared in large quantities but are also in check with the theme of the party. Snack items can be placed at the bar area such as nuts, flat breads, olives and crackers.

For the appetizers, plan on at least six appetizers per person for each hour the party will last. For a party of six, lasting two hours, prepare at least 72 appetizers. However, if you decide on the buffet style (serve yourself) approach, plan

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