Host a Chic Martini Party

No drink is more chic and urbane than the martini. And, hosting a martini party is a fun twist on the familiar cocktail party. Plus, a martini party is appropriate for any time of year, any occasion. So, get out your guest list, and let’s plan a great martini party.

Check out MyExpression.com for some great cocktail party invitations. My favorite for this event is called “Martini Madness”. I suggest specifying attire for this party. If you’re going all out with the martinis and classy appetizers, you really don’t want people showing up in jeans and sweatshirts.

There are basically three things you need to consider when hosting a martini party.

The Menu

Martinis can hit you like a ton of bricks. So, even though this is a cocktail party, which typically is focused on the drink more than the food, I would provide some pretty heavy hors d’oeuvres. And, since the martini party is known for being chic and sophisticated, this is not the time for chicken wings and chips with ranch dip. And, no paper plates for this party. Your plates needn’t all match exactly, but they should be real! So, put on your thinking cap and come up with some appropriate appetizers. A good rule of thumb is three cold appetizers and three hot ones. Here are some suggestions

• Cheese – This is a great time to experiment with exotic cheeses. Creamy brie is a good choice as is any cheese that goes well with martinis.

• Shrimp – There are many recipes with shrimp that make a classic statement. If you want really swanky, serve caviar instead.

• Hot dips – Homemade hot dips like artichoke or onion will make a good impression and can be kept warm all evening in a warming tray.

The Atmosphere

Think Manhattan chic and reflect it in your decorating. Flowers like calla lilies placed on mirrored trays are a great way to start. Be sure to create an exciting bar area; after all the drink is the center of this party. If you don’t have beautiful barware for mixing and drinking martinis, now’s the time to invest.

Dim lighting and bar music is a must and be sure you have plenty of seating for your guests. The focus here is on mingling, so you must make your space inviting and comfortable for this.

The Drinks

Do you know how to mix a martini? Well, unless you’re planning to hire a bartender, it’s time to learn. Buy a book and start practicing. There are dozens of varieties of martinis and you should perfect a few of them at least. Don’t forget the ever popular Cosmopolitan, the Appletini, the Lemon Drop and the Chocolate Martini.

Get ready for a chic night of fun and frolic that your guests will be talking about for weeks. A martini party is one of the most interesting ways I know to have a cocktail party.

“Why don't you get out of that wet coat and into a dry martini?” - Robert Benchley