Last week we got your plans in order, now it’s time to shake (or stir) things up. Week 2 is all about the fun stuff: the bar, cocktails, and bite-sized apps. Because, people might forget your playlist, but they’ll remember if the drinks were flat or the apps required a knife and fork.
This round of tips will help you:
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Mix just enough personality into your bar without overcomplicating it.
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Batch, garnish, and stock like you’ve been hosting for years.
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Keep guests happily mingling with effortless, bite-sized apps.
By the end of the week, you’ll be the kind of host who makes it look easy—because it actually will be.
xx,
Jen & Margaret
1. Pick 1–2 Signature Drinks Choose one crowd-pleasing cocktail and one non-alcoholic option. It adds personality while keeping the bar simple.
2. Batch It for Self-Service Pre-mix cocktails in pitchers or dispensers and set beside an ice bucket. Add wine, water, and a mocktail so guests can help themselves.
3. Master Your Quantities Plan about 1 lb of ice per guest (plus extra for chilling). For 10 guests, stock 8–10 bottles of wine, or if you’re also serving beer, plan around 24 beers plus 4–6 bottles of wine.
4. Finish with Easy Garnishes Pre-cut citrus wedges, zest, and a few fresh herbs. Stored airtight, they’ll elevate presentation with zero stress.
5. Keep Apps Bite-Sized Stick to one- or two-bite items that don’t need utensils—skewers, crostini, cocktail meatballs—so guests can mingle with ease.
6. Rely on the “Entertaining Trio” Anchor your spread with a cheese board, charcuterie board, or crudité platter (pick one, two, or all three). These no-cook, easy-to-assemble staples adapt beautifully to the season or theme and free you up to focus on a couple of standout apps.
7. Replenish in Waves Refresh platters and drink stations halfway through the night. The table stays inviting, and you avoid a frantic full reset.
Extra Credit: Add fresh herbs, citrus slices, or edible flowers to your ice blocks. As the ice melts, it adds a pop of color and a subtle infusion to your cocktails.
✨ Hosting Takeaway: A thoughtful bar and easy apps set the tone—keep it simple, stylish, and self-serve, and you’ll be free to enjoy the party right alongside your guests.
