How to Plan a Martini Bar Party

Throwing a martini party requires invitations.

Martini bar parties add a theme to your event that is based around various flavors and types of gin, vodka or non-alcoholic martinis. You can throw a martini bar party to celebrate a holiday, birthday or other special event. Consider the array of preferences your guests may have and choose three to four types of martinis to feature, including a fruity or sweet option, a dry original-style martini, a bold-flavored martini such as an espresso martini, and a non-alcoholic martini option.

Instructions

1. Write a list of potential party dates, times and guests. Consider having more than one date to work with, particularly during holiday times or on the weekends, as bars are busiest during these times. Create a list of requirements, such as a private room, specialty martinis, the amount of bartenders needed and a budget. Decide if you want to pay per drink, per person or pay a flat per person rate.

2. Call martini bars in your area and ask to speak with the manager or owner of the bar. If you do not have a martini bar in your area, call regular bars and ask if they can feature martinis for a party. Ask the manager or owner questions regarding your list and requirements from Step 1. Write down the responses from each person at each establishment. Compare the responses and available services to find your best option.

3. Choose the bar that fits your budget and needs. Call the bar's manager or owner back to reserve the date and time discussed. Schedule a day and time, preferably between the lunch and dinner rushes when bars and restaurants slow down to visit the bar and survey the area. Meet with the bartender and manager or owner to discuss and decide which type of martinis you wish to serve, a menu, seating, and any entertainment you may be providing. Make sure you and the manager or owner are taking notes to avoid confusion at a later date.

4. Review a contract, if provided with one, to check that the correct date, time and your stipulations are written down. Request that the manager or owner sign the contract in front of you. Sign the contract if you agree with terms. Retain a copy of the signed contract. Pay the deposit to hold your date and time slot, if necessary.

5. Purchase or create martini-themed invitations. Include the occasion, such as a holiday, birthday, retirement, shower or engagement party. Write or type the name of the venue, address, date and time of the party, how long the party lasts, appropriate attire for guests to wear, whether or not guests should bring gifts, if hors d'oeuvres or a meal is included, and if it is an open bar or if people are required to pay for their own drinks. Typically, party etiquette is to pay for your guests when throwing a party.

6. Provide guests with a person and phone number to RSVP to and a date to RSVP by on the invitation. Choose an RSVP date that is at least two weeks before your martini bar party so you can get an accurate head count. This assists in determining seating arrangements, quantity of food and drink needed, and pricing.

7. Collect and fill out the addresses of your guests on your invitation envelopes. Put the invitations in the envelopes so the front of the invitations face upward from the sealed side of the envelopes. Close the envelopes and add a martini-themed sticker to the back along the seal for an added touch, if desired. Add a return address in the upper left corner of each envelope to ensure that invitations are returned to you in the event of a wrong address or recent move. Place stamps in the upper right corner of the envelopes. Mail your invitations out six weeks prior to your martini bar party.

8. Record RSVPs as they occur. Call the manager or owner of the bar to give your head count two weeks before the party. Set up a day and time to meet with the manager or owner of the bar a week before the party to review the terms of your agreement, party features and any last minute details.

9. Create a martini menu of featured martinis and print copies that you can disperse at the tables or along the bar on the day of the party so guests know which type of martinis are being offered.

10. Arrive at the martini bar for your party at least an hour before the event. This allows you time to get settled, decorate and check for anything that needs to be changed or fixed such as seating. Place your martini menus along the bar and on tables.

11. Greet your guests at the entrance of the martini bar or at the entrance of the private room. Hand them a martini menu or point them in the direction of the bar.

References

• AnnouncingIt.com: Invitation Dos and Don'ts