at least 3 weeks out

• Set a date for your party.
• Decide on a menu of hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
• To counter expectations for a full bar, include the set cocktail menu on your invitations and mention that beer and wine will be available, too.
• Customize our printable Cocktail Party invitations.
• Gather names, emails, addresses and phone numbers, and email or mail invitations.

3 weeks out

• Take inventory of your glassware and serveware. Make sure you have beer, wine and cocktail glasses, pitchers, shakers, jiggers, an ice bucket, plates and napkins. Designate one cocktail shaker for each drink recipe that requires one. Purchase anything you’re lacking.

2 weeks out

• Review hors d’oeuvre and cocktail recipes and make a list of all ingredients.
• Plan ahead for prep work you can do in advance, and all that you’ll do the day of the party.
• Begin planning a music playlist for the event - or, borrow from ours.

1 week out

• Finalize guest list and follow up with anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d.
• Shop for ingredients, decorations, etc.
• Print drink recipes on 4 x 6″ cardstock to display in frames at your bar station.
• Gather serveware.
• Rent any tables or chairs necessary.

3 days out

• Shop for any perishable food items for your hors d’oeuvre menu.

day before

• Set up for the party. Decorate, prep the bar area, etc.

day of

• Prep last-minute hors d’oeuvres.
• Cut all of your fruit and garnishes and store in covered containers.
• Group them together with the other ingredients in each drink at your bar station.
• Chill any drinks that require it 30 minutes in advance.
• Buy ice.
• Shop for and arrange flowers.
• Set out candles.
• Set up water stations with pitchers and glasses.
• Turn on music, relax and get in the spirit of celebrating!