"Cocktails" Even though cocktail parties per se are not the rule for Chaîne events, the cocktail party format is something to consider for a season opener, an annual meeting, or a party planned to acquaint members with potential Chaîne members. The "cocktails" should be wine, champagne, and/or other crafted beverages. Cocktail parties, formal or informal, are great fun because they provide a terrific way to accommodate large or small gatherings. They can be relatively simple with a minimum of planning and effort or quite formal, planned in advance with maximum attention paid to every minute detail. Such an event is a perfect way to open a season or conduct a tasting, introduce potential members to the membership at large, conduct an election or commemorate a person or event. Plan to serve cocktails for no more than two hours, encouraging guests to feel free to come and go at their leisure. Offer hors-d'oeuvres ranging from light finger foods to elegantly prepared delicacies; they should always be easy to eat in two bites at the most and slightly salty or spiced to tease the palate. Cocktail parties can be informal, semiformal or formal, depending on the time scheduled which ranges from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. Extended "Cocktails", "Cocktail" Buffet or Evening Brunch: These parties are variations on the traditional cocktail party, except that more substantial foods are served. Some foods might require small plates and forks. Often tables are provided so that guests may be seated to eat some of the food selections, sitting for a short time, and then moving on to mix again with the other guests. Most often, the extended cocktail party is semiformal but can be formal if the hour is after six in the evening. The times for cocktail buffets range from 6:00 to 10:00 P.M. | back to top |