Final Cocktail Party Prep

Don't forget the ice! Purchase plenty of bagged ice from your local grocer.

This is very important as "home-grown" ice can often absorb odors from the freezer and is much less than dense (i.e., it melts more quickly) than ice made commercially.

Don't overpour! Measure spirits appropriately to avoid spoiling a good drink.

Serve cold drinks cold - Ice cold. Chill glasses, bottles, etc. where possible.

Utilize the appropriate glassware - highballs are served in highball glasses, red wine in (various) stemware, and so on.  Limit use of plastic cups to backyard BBQ's and picnics.

Size it up. Depending on the size and length of your party, these basic quantities will help get you going: A 750 ml bottle of wine pours 4-6 glasses and a 750 ml bottle of spirits makes approximately 16 drinks. For 15 guests over 2 hours, estimate 30 - 40 drinks.

Have fun! The Italians have a term, "Spretzatura" which, loosely translated means "careless grace". Your guests will take their social queue from you so smile and relax as you know that you've got it covered.