What is a 'cocktail party'?

What is a 'cocktail party'?

Charlie Scola (Event Planner, Charlie Scola Catering) gives expert video advice on: What is a party's 'theme'?; What are tips for finding a great party theme?; How do I choose the right theme for my party? and more...

In most true cocktail parties there is no seating. No seats at all. This way it forces people to mingle. Cocktail parties are very popular to break the ice before a dinner party. Now, of course, today we do put a few chairs around sporadically. Especially for the people that can't stand that long. And I always recommend it. But the fewer chairs, the better, so that people mingle and mix. It makes for a better party.