Simple Pleasures: Host a Casual Happy Hour

Planning a big cocktail party or fancy dinner has its place, but there are times when we would all rather just kick back with a few friends. Small, spontaneous gatherings place less stress on the host (you) while still offering a fun break from the day-to-day grind. So call a few friends or neighbors, and see who wants to pop over for a drink at your place — we have the tips and creative twists to make it a major success.

Set up an entryway bar tray. Offering your guests a drink on their way in the door is a festive way to kick things off. Set up a small bar on your entryway table; either set out a variety of popular options and let guests mix their own cocktails, or offer a signature drink and pour your guests a fresh one as they come in. Offer nonalcoholic options too, such as sparkling water and sodas with a fragrant garnish.


Keep prep low-key. Toss clutter into a basket in the closet, plump cushions on the couch, sweep away major dust bunnies, pull in a few extra seats from the dining room and plunk a few backyard (or supermarket) flower stems in a bottle.

People actually tend to feel more relaxed when everything is not spot-on perfect, so there is no need to stress over every detail. Keep things simple and casual, and you are bound to have a good time.


Make a wine storage statement. Take a cue from the creative book Living in a Nutshell, by Janet Lee, and install floating shelving in a zigzag shape to hold your favorite bottles of wine. Painting the wall behind the shelving is a nice touch — guests won't be able to resist perusing your collection.


Put a record on. Do you have a record player gathering dust? Pull that puppy out! Playing good old-fashioned vinyl is guaranteed to get people chatting. You are bound to end up with a crowd around the record player, discussing music and checking out your albums.


Have a drink in the kitchen. It's casual, and you'll have easy access to snacks — what more could you ask for? Make it feel more special by bringing in a few small bud vases with flowers and lowering the lights.


Host friends outdoors. If you live in a temperate climate, take advantage of year-round decent weather by inviting friends out to the patio or deck for a drink and snack. One of the quickest yet most dramatic changes you can make to your outdoor space is to add something that feels very indoors. Think a fluffy rug, cushions from the living room or even your coffee table. Oh, and there is no need to make yourself sweat — enlist the help of the first friends to arrive, and they will immediately feel a part of things. Win-win!


What to stock: A few top-shelf bottles and mixers are generally better than a huge bar filled with everything under the sun. And if you prefer wine or beer, don't feel you need to offer hard booze at all — stock up on a case of your favorite vintage and make it your "house" wine or brew instead.


Go with the flow ... and stay safe. If you and your guests are having a great time, try to be flexible — ask what people feel like having and order something in for dinner. This can also be a good hint for friends who may be getting a bit too tipsy that it's time to wind things down. Unless you are inviting your walking-distance neighbors, make sure your guests have a plan to make it home safely after cocktail hour. Offer to call cabs or designate a driver to shuttle folks home.

Tell us: Share your favorite, funniest or worst cocktail party tales (either your own party or one you attended) in the Comments!

How to set up a festive bar cart

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