First Class Cocktail Party

If you're thinking about throwing a casual cocktail party, it's not a bad idea to brush up on bartender skills. Having a get together at home is usually more fun. It's definitely less expensive, cozier and more intimate than having the party in a bar.

People have been having cocktail parties for the past 100 years. The first one ever was held in St. Louis, Missouri. The party lasted one hour, and was a big success. To this day, there is a plaque stating how it was a history making event.

Cocktails have actually been around for a long time, perhaps 200 years! But that is another story, and will probably be another Hub. Stay tuned for details.

If you've never given a cocktail party before, best to practice when the guests are still at home. Be sure you have the tools of the trade, which are -

Boston Shaker (metal outside, glass on the inside)

Cocktail strainer

jigger (to measure your spirits)

and a heavy duty blender!

Remember - the blender does not have to be pretty but it does need to know how to crush ice, and for long periods of time. It should have sharp blades and a strong motor. This is your primary mission as a bartender! Good tools that you can count on will be your best friends at the party.

You're going to need some medium priced alcoholic spirits. Why? Because the low cost ones may also be low in quality, and the high cost ones are usually due to advertising. So shoot for a good brand in the mid-cost range.

When it comes to making cocktails, each little cocktail is a recipe. For that reason, make it easier on yourself and just limit the cocktail menu to two or three drinks maximum. We're having Margaritas tonight, you can announce, or Mojitos if you like. This makes it easier for you at the grocery store too.

Shop the day before for spirits, juices and garnishes. Ice too should be bought no more than one day ahead. If it's been in the freezer for longer than 24 hours it can be hard to crush - you will think you returned to the ice age.

So it's Margaritas and Mojitos, right? Kind of a south of the border theme?

Do you have the tools of the trade? Shaker, jigger and blender? If you do, practice at home til your drinks are the tops. Too sweet, sour or icy won't do. When you know how you like them, stick to the proven formula for consistent success and rave reviews.

There had better be munchies for a few reasons. Alcohol can exhaust a person and the calories gained by eating salty and meaty munchies can keep your guests from getting drunk and let them party longer. So make sure you have a platter or two in the refrigerator ready to bring out as a backup supply when the first batch has been eaten.

Bottled water is another necessity. Alcohol may be a social lubricant, but it is actually a depressant. It dehydrates the body, so keep the bottled water on hand so your guests can replenish themselves and feel fresh, not groggy.

When you serve your cocktails, be sure to add a festive garnish.

Send out invitations - any way you like - but this is an extra touch that really tells them what they are in for - a first class cocktail party.