Who doesn’t love a good cocktail party?
Whether it’s friends getting together for a girl’s night out or a more formal affair, there’s something special about mingling with others and enjoying delicious libations.
But hosting a cocktail party can be daunting if you don’t have any experience. Don’t worry; we’re here to help.
This article will share our top essential accessories for your next cocktail party. From drinks to dishes to decorations, we have everything you need to throw the best bash!
What to bring to a cocktail party
If you’re planning on hosting a cocktail party, there are a few accessories you’ll need to pack.
Here are the essentials:
- Cocktail shaker: You’ll need a sturdy (and preferably ice-cold) cocktail shaker for shaking up your drinks.
- Martini glasses: A nice set of martini glasses will help to dress up your drinks and make them look more elegant.
- Jigger: A jigger is essential for measuring cocktails accurately.
- Filter: A strainer helps separate juice from the pulp in fruit juices or cocktails.
- Corkboard: If you’re serving mixed drinks, a corkboard can be handy for labeling ingredients and tracking who’s had what.
The best cocktails for your next party
Are you looking for the perfect cocktails to serve at your next party? Here are five of our favorites!
Pineapple Margarita
Soda water, white tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, triple sec, salt
This delicious cocktail is refreshing and flavorful. The white tequila and lime juice give it a subtle citrus flavor, while the pineapple juice and triple sec give it a hint of sweetness. The saltiness of the rim helps to balance out the sweetness. Serve this drink chilled and enjoy its refreshing taste!
Cosmopolitan
Champagne or sparkling wine, Cointreau or Curaçao orange liqueur, cranberry juice cocktail mix (or any other fruit juices), lime wedge
This cocktail is a classic mix of champagne and orange liqueur. The cranberry juice gives it a tart flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the Cointreau and Curaçao. The lime wedge gives it a bit of zing and makes it even more refreshing. Serve this drink cold and enjoy its delightful taste!
Pineapple Martini
Vodka, piña colada mix (or any other pineapple-flavored mixer), club soda
This cocktail is perfect for summer parties! The piña colada mix gives it a sweet, tropical flavor, while the vodka keeps it smooth and easy to drink. Add ice to your shaker, shake it well, and pour it into a glass filled with crushed ice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Margarita
Tequila, triple sec, lime juice
This Margarita is perfect for those who love a strong margarita flavor. The triple sec gives it a pleasant citrus taste, while the lime juice balances the sweetness.
Add ice to your shaker, shake it well, and pour it into a glass filled with crushed ice. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Read Next – Moscow Mule Kit – The Most Classic Cocktail Recipe In A Tin Ever
How to make a cocktail
If you’re planning on hosting a cocktail party, it’s essential to have the right accessories.
Here are four essentials you’ll need:
- A shaker or ROCKS shaker
- A jigger
- A strainer
- Ice cubes
To make a drink, start by pouring your spirit of choice into your shaker or ROCKS shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Strain the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
What food to serve at your next cocktail party
You’ll need a few essential accessories if you’re looking to host a cocktail party. Here’s what you should consider:
- Cocktail pourers are essential if you want to make perfect drinks every time. Not only do they help pour without spilling, but they also come in different sizes and shapes to fit any glass.
- Mixers: A sound mixer will allow you to blend drinks quickly and easily. Options include handheld mixers, stand mixers, and big bowl mixers.
- Tray sets: Tray sets come in different shapes and sizes and serve cocktails on trays or individual glasses. They can also hold ingredients while mixing drinks or for storage after the party.
- Cocktail napkins: Napkins are necessary to clean tables and glasses after guests have finished their drinks. Make sure to choose large enough napkins, so everyone has plenty of room to eat.
If you’re hosting a cocktail party, make sure to have all of the essentials!
Read Next – A Guide To Choosing The Right Cocktail Shaker Glass
What equipment do I need for cocktails?
When planning your next cocktail party, you’ll need some essential equipment.
Here are a few things you’ll need:
- Martini shaker: This is the part of your bar that will help make all of your cocktails. You’ll need a martini shaker to hold ice and mix drinks well.
- Jigger: Another critical piece of equipment is a jigger. A jigger is used to measure liquid ingredients like liquor and syrups into smaller amounts for cocktails.
- Cocktail glassware: One of the essential pieces of cocktail gear is the proper glassware. You’ll need glasses for each drink you’re making and some standard tulip glasses if you’re going for a classic twist on a cocktail.
- Bar tools: For stirring, muddling, and shaking, you’ll need essential bar tools like a whisk and strainer.
Read Next – What’s The Best Cocktail Shaker Set For A Novice Bartender?
What are the six basic cocktails?
When planning your next cocktail party, it’s essential to consider the party type. A formal affair?
A more casual get-together? There are a few essential accessories for any cocktail party! Here are the six basics:
Martini shaker
This is a must for any formal cocktail party! It makes making martinis easy and can be found at most liquor stores.
Bartender’s glass
A bartender’s glass is perfect for displaying your cocktails. It has a tall stem and a narrow bowl, which gives the drink an elegant look. You can find these glasses at most liquor stores or online.
Jigger
This is an essential tool for measuring drinks accurately and quickly. You can find jiggers at most liquor stores or online.
Ice bucket
An ice bucket is essential for keeping cocktails cold during the party! Fill it with ice before the party starts, and keep it topped off throughout the night. You can find ice buckets at most convenience stores or online.
Mixing spoon
A mixing spoon is perfect for ensuring all ingredients are mixed evenly and is also an essential tool for stirring cocktails. You can find mixerspoons at most liquor stores or online.
Bar towel
A bar towel is a must-have for any bar! It’s excellent for wiping down surfaces and can be found at most convenience stores or online.
Bokhot Bartender Kit, 14 Piece Cocktail Shaker Set Stainless Steel Bar Tools with Rotating Stand, 25 oz Shaker Tins, Jigger, Spoon, Pourers, Muddler, Strainer, Tongs, Bottle Stoppers, Opener, Recipes
$39.99 in stock
Cocktail Shaker Set, 23-Piece Boston Stainless Steel Bartender Kit with Acrylic Stand & Cocktail Recipes Booklet, Professional Bar Tools for Drink Mixing, Home, Bar, Party (Include 4 Whiskey Stones)
What are the five types of cocktails?
There are five types of cocktails: martinis, Manhattans, Margaritas, Margaritas with a Twist, and Martinis with a Twist.
Here’s what each one is made of and how to make them:
Martini: Gin, vermouth, bitters
Margarita: Tequila, lime juice, salt
Margarita with a Twist: Agave nectar or honey substitute for the lime juice, addition of orange liqueur or vodka for extra flavor
Martinis with a Twist: Sherry or dry red wine instead of gin, use bitters sparingly or omit them altogether if you want a sweeter drink
Martinis: Dry Vermouth (or white grape juice), Sweet Vermouth (or Granulated sugar), Fresh Lemon Juice, Bitters (optional)
What are the ten most popular cocktails?
- Margarita: A traditional cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and salt.
- Mojito: A Cuban cocktail made with mint, sugar, ice, and rum.
- Manhattan: A classic American cocktail made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Pina Colada: A drink made with pineapple juice, coconut cream, and sugar.
- White Russian: A drink made with vodka, Kahlua coffee liqueur, and cream.
- Daiquiri: Made with white rum, lime juice, sugar syrup, and ice.
- Cosmopolitan: A versatile cocktail made with vodka or brandy as the base spirit.
- Margarita variation: including strawberry margaritas and herbal margaritas.
- Sex on the Beach: Made with cranberry juice, orange liqueur, lemon juice, vodka (or triple sec), stirred frozen strawberries (thawed if frozen), and club soda.
- Martini: Including dry martinis (made without olives), red wine martinis (made with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon), Daisy Martinez’s Tom Collins (served cold mixed with sparkling water), and the Hurricane (a hurricane drink composed of light rum mixed with ginger ale).
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set Bartender Kit with Stand | Bar Set Drink Mixer Set with All Essential Bar Accessory Tools: Martini Shaker, Jigger, Strainer, Mixer Spoon, Muddler, Liquor Pourers |Silver
$39.99 in stock
Cocktail Shaker Set with Stand Mixology Bartender Kit|Bar Tool for Drink Mixing, Cocktail Shaker Bar Accessories for Home Bar Set, Perfect for Apartment Essentials and House Warming Gifts New Home
$32.86 in stock
What are the four components of a cocktail?
When planning your next cocktail party, it is essential to remember the four components of a perfect party: drinks, setting, company, and conversation.
To set the tone for the night, choose light and refreshing cocktails. Consider using white spirits such as vodka or gin instead of scotch or bourbon for drinks. For setting, try using beautiful glassware that will show off your drink creations.
For company, bring friends who enjoy good conversation and laughter.
And lastly, make sure to keep the conversation flowing by asking guests their thoughts on current events or their favorite cocktails.
Read Next – The Best Margarita Gift Sets For Any Occasion
What is a cocktail kit?
For a cocktail party, having the right accessories is essential.
Here are some essentials for your next party:
Cocktail Kit
Everyone knows that a good cocktail requires the right tools, including glassware. Affordable glasses start at $3 at your local party store and go up to several hundred dollars for top-of-the-line options like stemless wine glasses or tumblers. If you’re planning to serve more than one drink, consider getting different types of mirrors.
Mixing Glasses
When mixing drinks, nothing is more frustrating than using a regular drinking glass. For cocktails that call for stirred or shaken cocktails (like martinis or margaritas), you need an optic glass – also known as a jigger – which looks like a minor pitcher with measurements on the side. For classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, use a highball glass. Both types of glasses come in many different shapes and sizes, so be sure to find the perfect one for your next bash.
Shaker & Jigger Set
A shaker is essential for preparing cocktails without ice (like vodka tonics or bloody marys). Get a sturdy shaker and a strainer if you plan on shaking your cocktails. And don’t forget your jigger set – this tool lets you easily measure specific amounts of ingredients like sugar or Scotch whisky.
Cocktail Mixer
You must have a cocktail mixer if you make more than one drink. These gadgets contain a container that fits over a pitcher or glass and helps create a smooth, consistent drink. Some models come with built-in shakers, while others require you to shake the ingredients before pouring them into the container.
Long Glasses
If you’re hosting a party where guests will be indulging in more than one drink, be sure to bring along several types of glasses so everyone can get their fix.
Instead of mixing cocktails, invest in some long glasses for mixing cocktails.
These glasses are typically around 16 ounces and are perfect for savoring delicate drinks like martinis or Manhattans.
Read Next – Cute Cocktail Glasses That Will Make You Look Like A Bartender
Which piece of equipment is best used for cocktails?
When hosting a cocktail party, it’s crucial to have the right tools for the job. Here are four essential pieces of equipment to make your cocktails come together perfectly.
Cocktail shaker: A cocktail shaker is essential for making shaken cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and martinis. It helps keep the ingredients cold and ensures the drink is mixed correctly.
Mixing glass: A mixing glass is perfect for making basic cocktails like Moscow mules and margaritas. It has a narrow mouth making it easier to combine ingredients quickly and thoroughly.
Juicer: A juicer is an excellent option for adding fresh fruit or juice to your drinks. They can make juices, smoothies, or fruit-infused spirits like cordials and liqueurs.
Strainer: A filter is another essential tool for making perfect cocktails. It allows you to separate liquids (such as juice and bloodshot liquor) from solids (like ice).
Bokhot Bartender Kit, 14 Piece Cocktail Shaker Set Stainless Steel Bar Tools with Rotating Stand, 25 oz Shaker Tins, Jigger, Spoon, Pourers, Muddler, Strainer, Tongs, Bottle Stoppers, Opener, Recipes
$39.99 in stock
Cocktail Shaker Set, 23-Piece Boston Stainless Steel Bartender Kit with Acrylic Stand & Cocktail Recipes Booklet, Professional Bar Tools for Drink Mixing, Home, Bar, Party (Include 4 Whiskey Stones)
What are the four primary methods of making cocktails?
cocktail party basics
1. Choose your cocktails
2. Make the drinks
3. Garnish and serve
What goes on a cocktail trolley?
When hosting a cocktail party, having the right accessories to make your guests feel at ease is essential. One of the essentials is a cocktail trolley, which can accommodate a variety of drinks and snacks.
There are many trolleys on the market, so find the one that best suits your needs.
Some popular options include retractable trolleys with built-in ice machines, drink holders for up to 24 guests, and swivel casters for easy mobility.
When choosing a trolley, consider the size of your party and the type of drinks you intend to serve. Some trolleys can hold up to 50 glasses, so ensure you have enough space on board!
Have essential accessories to get the most out of your cocktail party experience. A cocktail trolley is a great way to ensure your guests have everything they need while enjoying themselves!
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set Bartender Kit with Stand | Bar Set Drink Mixer Set with All Essential Bar Accessory Tools: Martini Shaker, Jigger, Strainer, Mixer Spoon, Muddler, Liquor Pourers |Silver
$39.99 in stock
Cocktail Shaker Set with Stand Mixology Bartender Kit|Bar Tool for Drink Mixing, Cocktail Shaker Bar Accessories for Home Bar Set, Perfect for Apartment Essentials and House Warming Gifts New Home
$32.86 in stock
What is a jigger?
Jigger is the common name for a tool that is used to measure volume. It can be a simple kitchen utensil, or it can be more complex and expensive.
Jiggers come in many different shapes and sizes and can be made of metal, plastic, or glass.
What accessories are needed for a bar?
When hosting your next cocktail party, it’s crucial to have the right accessories. Here are some essential items:
Mixologist Glasses
A set of mixologist glasses will help you keep track of your ingredients and ensure that drinks are adequately mixed. You can find a collection of glasses at most liquor stores or online.
Cocktail Shaker
A cocktail shaker is essential for making delicious cocktails on the go. A good cocktail shaker can be found at most kitchen and home stores.
Ice Mold
An ice mold is perfect for creating, ng ice cubes for drinks. Some ice molds even come with ramekins so you can hold your glass while it melts! It comes in many shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs.
Serving Tray or Cocktail Table
A serving tray or cocktail table is perfect for setting drinks and snacks for guests. These tables typically come with a built-in glass tray, making it easy to serve cocktails and other small meals.
Read Next – 5 Essential Tools For A Successful Home Bar
Conclusion
Whether you are hosting a cocktail party for your friends or family, having the right accessories is essential.
Luckily, we’ve put together a list of essential items that will help make your event extra special.
This list has everything you need, from umbrellas to straws, to elevate your party stylistically and keep everyone comfortable and hydrated.
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to host the most stylish cocktail party of all time!
Bokhot Bartender Kit, 14 Piece Cocktail Shaker Set Stainless Steel Bar Tools with Rotating Stand, 25 oz Shaker Tins, Jigger, Spoon, Pourers, Muddler, Strainer, Tongs, Bottle Stoppers, Opener, Recipes
$39.99 in stock
Bartender Kit with Bamboo Stand, 12 Piece 25oz Cocktail Shaker Set with All Essential Bar Tools Set for Drink Mixing, Ideal Gifts for Cocktail Lovers, Home Bar Bartending Kit with Cocktail Recipes
Cocktail Shaker Set, 23-Piece Boston Stainless Steel Bartender Kit with Acrylic Stand & Cocktail Recipes Booklet, Professional Bar Tools for Drink Mixing, Home, Bar, Party (Include 4 Whiskey Stones)
FineDine 14-Piece Cocktail Shaker Set Bartender Kit - Boston Shaker w/ Strainer, Bar Jigger, Bar Spoon & More - Full Stainless Steel Cocktail Set w/ Bar Tools - Drink Mixer Bar Set - Bar Accessories
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set Bartender Kit with Stand | Bar Set Drink Mixer Set with All Essential Bar Accessory Tools: Martini Shaker, Jigger, Strainer, Mixer Spoon, Muddler, Liquor Pourers |Silver
$39.99 in stock
NutriChef Mixology Bartender Cocktail Shaker Set - 15 & 30 oz Stainless Steel Cocktail Bar Set Mix Drink Shaker Kit - Essentials Martini Making Kit Drink Mixing Starter Set - NCCS15PC (15 Piece Set)
$14.99 in stock
Cocktail Shaker Set with Stand Mixology Bartender Kit|Bar Tool for Drink Mixing, Cocktail Shaker Bar Accessories for Home Bar Set, Perfect for Apartment Essentials and House Warming Gifts New Home
$32.86 in stock