Cocktail Party Ideas for Any Occasion!

There's no easier way to host a successful cocktail party than with a really creative theme. So why wait for the calendar to tell you when it's time for a party? Invent your own holiday, pick an outrageous, colourful theme, and have a great time! Here are a few ideas to help you plan a cocktail party your friends will talk about for years:

The Global Party

Celebrate all the people and places in the world with a Global Party. Ask guests to wear ethnically-inspired clothing and bring a food dish from the same part of the world. Mind you, don't require your friends to create elaborate costumes - although they can if they're so inclined. Ethnic touches can be simple: a cherry-blossom fabric to suggest Japan, or perhaps a vividly striped scarf to represent a Mexican serape.

Here's a cocktail served in Old Havana which you can feature in your Global Party, courtesy of foodandwine.com:

The Rum Daisy

To one part white rum, add a generous splash of yellow Chartreuse and another generous splash of simple syrup. Top with a dash of Angostura bitters, stir and pour over ice. Garnish with a mint sprig, two fresh cherries and a twist of lemon.

The "Girls Rule" Party

Plan an all-girl party for you and your best chums. If you're feeling especially brazen, make it a pyjama party! Let your besties know to wear robes and slippers, so they can relax and get cosy. Make sure you have some board games to keep the evening light-hearted and fun, and don't forget the sweets! Try this luscious drink from webtender.com your friends are sure to love:

The Big Booty Shake

In a blender, combine a cup of milk, a scoop of chocolate ice cream, a generous shot of Southern Comfort and a splash of vanilla extract. Add a little ice to the mix if you like your drink extra cold.

The One-Percent Party

Go completely over the top with a bash celebrating excess! Invite your guests to become part of the exclusive few, if only for a night. Make sure you're choosing from the most elegant party venues Melbourne offers to set the right tone. Then pull out your best cocktail dress or raid your favourite second-hand store for the perfect wardrobe and costume jewellery accessories. Serve dainty finger foods along with the most sophisticated cocktails. Here's a great one from liquor.com:

The Lanesborough Cocktail

Add 1 part each Grand Marnier, cranberry juice and passion fruit juice to a shaker filled with ice. Shake it longer than you think you should. Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute and top with ice cold Champagne. Garnish with an orange twist.

No matter the theme or the occasion, there's one more component to a truly memorable party. Find a spot that's stylish and unique, with plenty of options for music, food, and drinks. In the great variety of venues in Melbourne, only One Seven One can provide the very best service, ambiance and style. We look forward to hosting your special celebration!