THE COCKTAIL PARTY

Whether at a venue or in your home, a cocktail party is one of those events at which anything goes. This event took place at our client’s showroom, already filled with sleek, contemporary furnishing. But it is not hard these days, with the myriad of rental houses that offer beautiful lounge furnishings, to get this designer look for your next event.

Many venues today are blank slates at which we can bring in décor to easily create this look. Yet even if you are planning an event at your home, the backyard usually offers a large, blank canvas great for a contemporary lounge look. And don’t worry that the event is outside! There are even rental patio heaters that are now designed around the lounge look (see The Vibe).

Start with a white color palette and add in one accent color. In this case, we used lime green. Add texture with textiles such as draping, and lighting. And design a menu as sleek as the look. Fresh, seasonal items served on white or (in this case) green platters with minimal garnish and a stunning signature drink go a long way in finishing off a look that is simple, yet beautiful.


The YumThe VibeThe DetailsThe Look

THE YUM

Make every bite count! When serving a passed hors d’oeuvre menu make sure that every item is as artistic as it is delicious, like this Scallop Benedict with Southern Grits and Hollandaise Sauce pictured here served in individual spoons.

More Menu Ideas
Bubbling Crab Tartlets with Fontina Cheese
Herb Crusted Filet of Beef Skewers with Shallot Merlot Sauce
Butternut Squash Empanadas with Tomatillo Salsa
Baby Artichoke Heart Skewers with Basil and Mint Pesto
Grilled Pizza with Shiitakes, Caramelized Red Onions, Fresh Figs and Chevre
Spicy Watermelon Salad Cups with Arugula and Feta

THE VIBE

Nothing ruins the vibe at a hip outdoor party more than an old-fashioned aluminum propane space heater. Happily, there are now more interesting designs on the market such as these beauties.

 

In this case, the white one would look stunning and certainly not out of place at an all-white contemporary backyard our outdoor cocktail party. Sophistication is key in all the details, from space heaters to the menu, music and décor.

THE LOOK

A contemporary cocktail party calls for minimal décor, so make sure that whatever you do in terms of floral makes a huge statement. In the case of this photo, L.A. florist The Mille Fiori offset an all-white table with this stunning arrangement of orchids that were deconstructed then reconstructed to look like undersea flora. Photo by Callaway-Gable Photography.

THE DETAILS

In keeping with the cool, contemporary lounge look, you might want to explore something completely different such as this concept. Created by Atmosphere North America, each virtual performer is on his or her own panel. Filmed in high definition they look and sound so real but are pure digital fun … and oh so hip for your contemporary cocktail party.

Other possibilities offered by the company include a rock ‘n’ roll band, a jazz trio, even a punk group! And, get this! When the virtual band is taking its virtual break, the company offers a variety of stunning nature scenes from oceans to mountains and everything in between. Choose one that works with your theme or event so it adds yet another design element that sets your event apart.