Great Cocktail Party Ideas on a Budget

Go green and be economical by using online invitations. With so many creative options on Evite, you really don't need to pay for paper invitations. It’s easy to track your guest responses, so you’ll know the number of attendees and avoid overbuying food and beverages.

Schedule the party at a time before or after dinner. Host happy hour cocktails at 5 PM on a Saturday or Sunday night, or invite guests over starting around 7 or 8 PM during the week. Partygoers will expect snacks versus a meal and won’t arrive overly hungry. You can serve light appetizers such as crackers, cheese, sliced vegetables and dip and maybe one dessert item.

One fun idea is to ask each guest to bring his or her own favorite chaser to share. All you will need to buy is vodka, rum and perhaps tequila. Welcome guests to bartender and show one another new and fun cocktails with the sodas and mixers they bring with them.

Another way to cut back on costs is to serve a signature drink at the party instead of providing a full bar. Find an easy recipe from the Food Network for a tasty cocktail. Offer guests the choice of trying the party drink or enjoying a beer. No other libations are needed. If you prefer wine over liquor, then skip the beer and mixed drinks. Many discount liquor and spirits stores offer great deals, and savings are often bigger if you buy a case. With a case of good wine, guests won’t miss other drinks.

You will be able to toast to a stress free cocktail party with these budget friendly ideas!