Cocktail party ideas: The perfect recipe for a fabulous cocktail party

Planning for a party can be stressful, right? Honestly, there are so many things to remember. Now that we are getting back to normality, we’ve got to make up for lost time and finally have a get-together (IRL, obvs).

What better way to celebrate a special event than with a cocktail party? Or why not just throw a party for the sake of it?

Whether following a recipe or inventing your own signature drink, cocktails are lush because they are so versatile. Everybody is a winner. So, firstly, here’s an important checklist...

Cocktail party checklist:

1. Theme – Make sure you get that theme down. It guarantees that all your decorations, signs and supplies are cohesive. Stick with a certain colour or pattern if you’re stuck.

2. Cocktails – Don’t overdo it. Why not just make three signature cocktails for the night? Have a non-alcoholic option, too. Also, don’t forget the ice.

3. Entertainment – Party games are a good shout. Music is a great way to establish a vibe.

4. Food – Make it simple, nibbles are best, but ensure that everyone's preferences and intolerances are catered for.

So, crafted here, are the essentials, things that all cocktail party planners will need when they embark on this fruitful journey of shaking, stirring and mixing. From glassware to straws, we’ve got you covered.

Struggling to think of a theme? No need. Below are two fantastic concepts fleshed out for your perusal: a boujee, black tie theme and a lush, tropical theme.

It’s your choice though, of course.

The essentials

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections.

Listed below are some must-haves for cocktail parties. Included on the list are a range of glassware from Wilko (at a great price, of course) and a fabulous chalkboard - where you can craft a unique cocktail menu for your party. Isn’t that nifty?

Let's go classy

If you prefer a more classy approach to your soirees, then the following list will suit you well. Ranging from cute bunting from Etsy to on-point invites, these items are guaranteed to add a touch of class to your fabulous cocktail party.

You had me at aloha

Tempted to go for a tropical theme? These items are simply perfect for a luau party, where the music is calming, and the attire must be floral.

Below includes a pack of colourful drink markers (so, you’re guaranteed to never accidentally pick up someone else’s drink) and some little umbrellas to accompany your signature cocktails – arguably the most important of the bunch.

Easy peasy lemon squeezy

Whether you'll be making all of your own cocktails or want some ready-to-drink versions, here are some staples to get you going. We've also added in a few quirky additions to spice it up, a limited edition Bloody Mary and a delicious (very convincing) non-alcoholic option from CleanCo, for the non-drinkers at your bash.

Cocktail Recipes from J. J. Whitley

If you are looking for something to spice up these cold nights or surprise your loved one this Valentine's Day, we have some great news for you.

Award-winning vodka brand J.J Whitley has shared some of their delicious, easy to make cocktail recipes which can be shaken and stirred with just a few ingredients, and of course, an eye-catching garnish.

J. J. Whitley Martini

Try this Martini which requires just three ingredients - plus green olives for garnish.

Eat your heart out, 007.

Ingredients:

• 75ml J.J Whitley Gold Artisanal Vodka

• 15ml Dry vermouth

• 1 dash orange bitters

• Olives to garnish

Method:

1. Chill glassware with ice.

2. Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 20 seconds.

3. Pour out the ice and strain into the glass.

4. Garnish with olives on a cocktail stick.

Watermelon Sugar (High) Cocktail

If you're not feeling a Martini and prefer something fresh and fruity, take a look at this Watermelon Sugar High Cocktail - which includes J. J. Whitley's Watermelon and Lime Vodka.

It's so simple, but so tasty - your friends will definitely be curious about your mixology skills.

Ingredients:

• 50ml J.J Whitley Artisanal Watermelon & Lime Vodka

• 50ml Cranberry juice

• Soda water (or lemonade. Follow your heart)

• Cucumber slice

• Ice

Method:

1. Add ice to highball glass.

2. Pour over your J.J Whitley Artisanal Watermelon & Lime Vodka and cranberry juice.

3. Top with lemonade (or soda).

4. Garnish with a cucumber slice (fresh).

Blood Orange Negroski

This cocktail, featuring their Blood Orange Vodka, will surely impress.

A Negroski is a variation of the Negroni in which gin is replaced with vodka.

It looks even cooler when you include the orange peel as a garnish.

Ingredients:

• 30ml J.J Whitley Blood Orange Vodka

• 30ml Campari

• 30ml Red Vermouth

• Garnish with zested Orange Peel

Method:

1. Add all ingredients to a stirring glass over ice.

2. Stir gently for 20/30 seconds.

3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large sphere or cube of ice.

4. Garnish with a zested Orange peel over the rim of the glass

Whether you are having a quiet night in, a house party with your close friends or your family over for a get together, try these easy cocktails to really make an impression.

That was just a little snapshot of what you need for a cocktail party, as well as a few ideas to get you inspired. With your own party, you can say ‘aloha’ to pricey bottomless brunches.

Bottoms up, babes.

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