GofG And EFFEN Design Your Perfect Cocktail Party In Your NYC Apartment

It's been said (and we agree!) that we are experts on planning a night out and about in The City, but what about those times when you want to throw a get together at your flat? Behold our best suggestions for creating a chic cocktail party in your NYC apartment. From what finger food to serve, to making a signature cocktail, we do our best to give you a perfectly designed turnkey cocktail party...

1. Cocktails: Give people a couple of options when it comes to beverages (think wine, beer, etc.), but don't forget to serve a signature cocktail that resonates with the feel of your gathering. Throwing a swanking soiree? Serve a Cucumber Martini: EFFEN vodka, dry white vermouth, absinthe, and cucumber wheel for garnish. Going for a little bit of spice? Serve a Ginger Man: EFFEN vodka, lime juice, ginger syrup, dash of bitters and mint leaves for garnish.

2. Food: Depending on whether you are an Iron Chef or a dilettante, the size of your kitchen workspace, and the time you have to prep and get your nails done and hair did before for your partay, you may or may not want to tackle food. If you are the type that feels more comfortable catering your party as opposed to slaving in kitchen all day, we suggest these restaurants as excellent alternatives: Kittichai - be sure to try the “Meing" salmon tartare as it would go perfectly with the EFFEN Vodka Ginger Man. Alta - definitely order the Lamb Meatballs. Into exploring culinary adventures in your kitchen? Then put on your apron and try these recipes: Roasted Asparagus wrapped with Smoked Salmon and Crostini with Goat Cheese and Fig. These options will go perfectly with your EFFEN Vodka Cucumber Martini.

3. Music: We all know that music can make or break any party. You can have people and booze, but without the right music, well you know.  Again, go with the feel of your party when choosing the soundtrack and always keep things upbeat! Check out our Essential Fall 2011 Music Playlist and our list of The Top Bands You Should Know About for some great options!  Remember if all else fails, you can never go wrong with the Material Girl and some classic 80's dance tracks.

4. Decor: Our suggestion is to keep things simple. No need for crate paper and balloons here (after all this isn't an 8th grade mixer). Try a couple floral arrangements from your local florist. Or, go for creative lighting options: Clusters of pillar candles in a couple locations around the apartment, or try these great jar lights from Urban Outfitters. They will create the perfect ambiance for enjoying your EFFEN cocktail.

We hope this is a good starting point to helping you plan your party. Remember, K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid). If all of this seems a bit overwhelming, consider buying a bottle(s) of EFFEN, a couple mixers and let your guests sort it out for themselves!

This post and its content is sponsored by and brought to you by the EFFEN Vodka Defining Style Editorial series.