How to Plan a Retro Cocktail Party
If you're running out of fresh ideas for entertaining, consider taking a step back with a retro-themed cocktail party. Your soiree can have the style and classic flair of a simpler time, when cocktail parties were all about having a drink and good conversation, and maybe a good record playing in the background. Treat your guests to something new by planning a retro cocktail party. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Turn back time to the decor of the 50s. Bright colors are key. Think lime green, pink, aqua and orange. Keep the lighting low and light candles or Chinese lanterns around the space you're entertaining in.
-
2
Keep the entertainment simple by playing popular music from the era. A CD player will do, but if you can get a record player to spin some tunes, it adds to the authenticity of the party's theme. Must-have music includes Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra and Louis Prima.
-
-
3
Set up a bar area. You don't have to have a real bar; throwing a crisp white tablecloth over a table and accenting it with a retro lamp for elegant mood lighting works. Provide an ice bucket, tongs, funky cocktail napkins and a bowl of salted nuts.
-
4
Offer glasses in various sizes: cordial, goblet and shot glass sizes. And limit the drink choices. Choose one main drink, such as a martini, and then offer a few others. Always include 1 or 2 nonalcoholic options.
-
5
Serve food favorites straight from a 50s or 60s kitchen. These include cocktail wieners or meatballs stacked on the frilly toothpicks, slices of cocktail rye with an assortment of spreads, and maybe even cheese straws or olive loaf. Alternatively, shrimp cocktail is a great low-fat option.
-
6
Plan some group games. Ideas include Clue, Password or Charades.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Furnish the staple garnishes and equipment for your retro bar. You might have a cocktail shaker, a measuring jigger and a pitcher for large quantities. Set out some cocktail olives, maraschino cherries and fruit slices for twists. For an added retro touch, have some frilly toothpicks and swizzle sticks on hand.
