The Right Way to Throw a Cocktail Party, Potluck or Buffet

Throw a Cocktail Party

Lively and short—it may not be what you're looking for in a mate, but it's a good guideline for a cocktail party.

For "lively," you need to invite plenty of people, since a cocktail party should have a nicely buzzing kind of energy. There's no magic number of guests; it depends on the personalities and the space. Fifteen may feel crowded and boisterous; 40 may feel sparse. You just don't want it to feel empty.

"Short" means set a beginning and an end time—4 to 6, say. This makes it easier for guests to commit, and for you to say goodbye graciously when the mood starts to wane.

The Menu

• A cheese board with Manchego, San Simón da Costa, and Tetilla cheeses (or substitute Gouda, Camembert, and Gorgonzola)
• Assorted Spanish olives
• Marcona almonds (large, crisp, salty Spanish almonds)
• Dried apricots, figs, and plums
• Roasted pepper and goat cheese empanadas
• White wine sangria with summer peaches and strawberries