- Keep the guest list low key: One of the best things about Happy Hour is that it's a great way to reconnect with friends after the work week. The best way to do this is to keep things small and intimate. This isn't a time to host your entire office or everyone from your Pure Barre class. Keep the list small (maximum 10 people) so that you can mix and mingle with everyone. Also, no formal invitations are required. Group text or Evites are sufficient for something this laid-back.
- Pick a signature cocktail: Sure, your favorite bar has an extensive collection of cocktail specials, but you don't need a full-bar to have fun at home. One great option is to mix up a six-pack of beer (or two) at your favorite grocery store. Many stores sell single bottles that you can add to your own six-pack, so you can offer several different kinds to your guests. You can also just grab a few bottles of your favorite rose (ours is Charles and Charles) or pick a signature themed cocktail and mix up a batch ahead of time in a big pitcher. Try this skinny margarita recipe or an old school classic like the Manhattan. This way, you don't need a giant liquor selection, you're just focusing in on one or two quality bottles of booze. Your guests will be happy and it's easier on your pocketbook, too.
- Presentation matters: Since you're hosting at home, you want to take a minute to make things a little bit special. A fast floral decoration tip is to grab one kind of flower or flowers all in the same color (Thanks, Barefoot Contessa) and display it in a simple container. You can even use a jar or wine glass if you don't have a vase handy. Also, who wants do dishes after a party? Hit Target and grab some cute paper plates and plastic cups. Stick to finger foods so you won't need to worry about utensils. Also, you can keep a supply of cute or kitchy cocktail napkins on hand so you don't have to run out each time you host.
- Shop and serve smartly: No one wants to come home after a long work week and spend hours slaving away at the stove. You want to pick a menu that's a combination of things you're going to make and store-bought favorites. We like incorporating a few heated dishes and a couple of dip/chip/veggie combinations. Trader Joe's has so many options for appetizers that just need to be heated and served and dips galore. Anything miniature-sized (mini quiche, mini hot dogs, etc) is always easy to eat while you have a drink in your hand. Store-bought dip or hummus with pita chips and cut veggies is effort free and a crowd pleaser. You can easily buy store bought salsa, guacamole and tortilla chips, too (Although we have the best and easiest guacamole recipe ever). Cheese and crackers are always a hit--try adding sliced pepperoni with some chunks of parmesan for an Italian twist!
- Don't forget a little something sweet: Even though most folks won't stay too late at a Happy Hour, you might want to have something sweet on hand to finish off the evening. Again, keeping it as simple as possible, stop by the bakery in your grocery store and grab a few items. Whole Foods always has amazing baked goods that are sold by the slice. Grab a couple of different things (cheesecake, fruit tart, chocolate mousse cake) and slice them into bited-sized pieces on a pretty serving tray. Also, who doesn't love a chocolate chip cookie? No one can tell the difference between homemade and break-and-bake so pick up some pre-made dough and throw them into the oven. Your kitchen will smell amazing, too!
Do you have any plans to host a Happy Hour at home? Let us know if you try out any of our tips!
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