If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that no New Year’s Eve party is complete without a good cocktail. The problem with this? Trying to whip up a decent drink when you’re itching to mingle, trying to play host, or buzzed yourself can be time-consuming and stressful—and no one wants to ring in a new year feeling that way.
That being said, while throwing a New Year’s Eve party replete with delicious drinks may sound intimidating damn near impossible, I am here to tell you that it can be done. In fact, with guidance from award-winning cocktail brand Cutwater and Flawless World, you can ring in 2024 in style with ease.
So without further ado, allow me to introduce to you 7 tips for throwing an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party. This is everything you need to throw a bangin’ bash with minimal effort. Keep scrolling to learn more.
How To Throw an Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Party:
1. Consult a master mixologist
Want to try your hand at playing bartender but don’t know where to start? Look no further. Regardless of whether you want to provide quality cocktails at your gathering without the effort or don’t know your way around a bar, Cutwater’s Holiday Concierge can help. With this service, you can consult a master mixologist for their expert insight on different pairings, cocktail recipes, and more.
For example, while you and your guests can certainly drink whatever you want, you’ll likely want to save sweet drinks, like a White Russian or Espresso Martini, for after dinner. By the same token, vodka, rum, whiskey and tequila-based beverages tend to work well with a variety of appetizers and entrees. Whatever the case may be, Cutwater Holiday Concierge will be able to guide your choices accordingly.
What’s more, getting in touch with Cutwater Holiday Concierge is easy so long as you’re 21 years or older; all you have to do is dial 1-833-DRINK-CW or engage with the brand on Instagram.
2. Don’t neglect the food
It goes without saying, but good food is non-negotiable at a New Year’s Eve bash (or any gathering, for that matter). To make your life easier, try planning out the food ahead of time; that way, you can get the most accurate recommendations from your master mixologist and ask guests to bring certain dishes if you’re opting for a potluck event. Plus, you’ll have more time to prep, which will alleviate some stress.
3. Use canned cocktails
Between all the house and food prep, hosting a party can be stressful. So why make things harder? This year, forego trying to carry multiple bottles from your car and into your home without dropping anything. Instead, opt for canned cocktails. You’ll save yourself the headache of trying to play bartender and your guests will be happy because their drinks will be ready when they want them.
Incorporating variety is key here. And Cutwater has everything you could possibly need thanks to their variety packs of tequila, vodka, whiskey, and rum-based cocktails. Stock up on a few different packs and chill everything on ice beforehand; that way, they’re nice and cold when your guests arrive.
4. Add in lots of sparkle
New Year’s Eve and glitter go hand in hand, and now’s the time to take advantage of it by adding lots of sparkle into your party. Go all out with disco balls, confetti, tinsel sticks, streamers and garland. Or, keep it simple and add some edible glitter into your cocktails and rock a festive party crown. Whatever you decide, jazzing things up with sparkles will make the party feel more festive and set the right vibe for the new year.
5. Create a DIY Bar
As a former bartender, believe me when I tell you that a DIY bar will solve so many hosting woes. Not only will it take the pressure off of you, but it’ll also give off a chiller vibe altogether. Likewise, it also caters to sober guests who want to whip up their own mocktails.
To create a DIY bar, set up a station replete with various spirits, mixers (think: juice, soda, and canned cocktails), fruit and plenty of ice. Also, be sure to lay out plenty of drinkware and a cocktail shaker.
6. Have a dress code
I don’t know about you, but a party I don’t dress up for isn’t a party at all. Take advantage of the holiday and dress to impress with a fun dress code for you and your guests. This doesn’t have to be anything crazy, either—it can be black tie, gold and glitter, or a pajama party. Remember: It’s your party, so you make the rules.
7. Pop the champagne
Would it really be a New Year’s Eve party without champagne? After all, the two are practically synonymous, which is why popping a bottle of bubbly on December 31 is a must. Plus, champagne also works as a great cocktail topper for vodka-based drinks. So, stock up on some bottles ahead of time that can be used to toast with at the stroke of midnight, served to your guests, or incorporated into cocktails. No matter how you use it, this celebratory beverage will remind you of all you’ve accomplished in 2023 and have to look forward to in 2024.
