About Houston
Founded in southeastern Texas’ unique bayou ecosystem, Houston has grown from a mid-sized trading outpost to a sleek, modern metropolis rich in cultural diversity and one-of-a-kind experiences. As the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the US, there’s something for every type of visitor, from sports fans to outdoor enthusiasts to dedicated foodies. The city is home to many museums, world-class shopping, a thriving nightlife and live music scene and a variety of unique attractions. If the beach is just your speed, Galveston Bay is just a short drive away.
With its many trendy nightlife spots and glamorous shopping options, Houston is the perfect location for a cocktail party. There are a wide variety of different cocktail party venues available, from hip nightclubs and bars to elegant country club meeting rooms and hotel conference centers. If your chosen venue needs just a few more items or special touches to make it unforgettable, there are many local service providers available to help.
Cocktail Party Options in Houston
Whether it’s a laid-back bask for 75 of your closest friends and colleagues or a formal affair between business partners, the right food, beverages and atmosphere can take your Houston cocktail party venue to the next level.
- Catering
While the stars of a cocktail party are absolutely the beverages and camaraderie, you should never underestimate the importance of food as both sustenance and conversation piece. Houston is home to a wide array of restaurants and catering services offering the perfect small bites for mobile snacking. You’ll find everything from elegant hors d’oeuvres to afternoon-friendly antipasti spreads or hot appetizers with a spicy kick. Special dietary needs can be accommodated, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
- Music
Part of the ambiance of a special gathering is often the music. The type of music you choose is limited only by your creativity. Hire a live band for some dancing music to encourage your guests to kick back, or relax to the soft music of a string quartet. For more of a party feel, you’ll find DJs to spin your carefully themed playlist while keeping your guests engaged.
- Party Attire
Cocktail parties are often formal gatherings, and what better occasion for dressing your best? Houston has more than 15 shopping malls, the most popular of which is the 2.4 million square foot Galleria, as well as streets lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques. The Galleria has a little of everything, from more budget-friendly anchor stores to upscale brand names such as Prada, Louis Vuitton and Coach. You’ll also find stores offering footwear, jewelry, handbags and accessories to complete your look.
Cocktail Party Companies in Houston
Hosting a cocktail party can be exciting, but there’s also a lot of organization and detail-oriented work involved. Stay focused and relaxed by hiring one of Houston’s professional party planners to organize and manage your event so you can enjoy the occasion.
- Something to Celebrate Event Planning and Design
The experienced planners with Something to Celebrate have been taking the stress out of hosting special events, including cocktail parties for anywhere from 20 to 200 guests. Whether you’re planning an end-of-year bash for hardworking employees or simply celebrating with family after an extended time apart, Something to Celebrate adds personal touches to make the event even more memorable. Planners will work with you to create a list of services that includes everything needed for an exciting and unique cocktail party.
- En Vogue Events
Owner and lead planner Stephanie Maudsley brings a wealth of experience and passion to making your event shine. Maudsley has established an impressive list of trusted vendors you can count on to provide quality products and services for your cocktail party. Planners will work with you to create a custom slate of services tailored to your needs and budget. You’ll be able to step back from the planning process and enjoy your event without worrying about a single detail.
- Elite Eventz
The planning team at Elite Eventz has a passion for creating memorable experiences for clients, from microweddings to carefree cocktail parties. Planners hold academic degrees in business or hospitality and are certified wedding and events planners through the industry’s accrediting organization. The firm offers standard and customized packages to help you create the perfect cocktail party experience within your budget.
Pros and Cons of Cocktail Parties in Houston
There are a wide variety of styles of Houston cocktail party venues to fit every crowd size and budget, but there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a final decision.
Advantages
- Entertainment options
You’ll find something for everyone here, from trendy nightlife to family-friendly attractions, museums, theaters and outdoor recreation.
- Cultural diversity
Decorative themes, food and drinks can take on exotic ethnic flavors and colors thanks to Houston’s culturally diverse population.
- Shopping
Find the perfect cocktail party ensemble at one of Houston’s many upscale shopping centers and boutiques.
Disadvantages
- Summertime is hot
Summer can be oppressively hot and humid. Ensure your guests are comfortable with an air-conditioned venue.
- Sales tax
Be ready to plan your party with a budget. Houston has one of the higher sales taxes on goods in the country, so expect amenities to cost more.
- Hurricanes and flooding
Houston is frequently in the path of Gulf storms and hurricanes and can take a direct hit, causing massive flooding.
Famous Locations in Houston
- Anahauc National Wildlife Refuge
Looking to learn about the outdoors in Houston? The Anahauc National Wildlife Refuge is 34,000 amazing acres has a visitor information station to set you on your way to educating yourself on the beauty of this marsh and wetland. Hike a trail and look for wildlife. Watch for geese, muskrats, coyotes and maybe even an alligator.
- Houston Museum of Natural Science
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is the perfect place to step back in time as you take in wonders of the natural world, some of which can’t be found anywhere else. Favorite exhibitions include massive dinosaur fossils, ancient Egyptian artifacts and sparkling Faberge eggs. You can also experience the night sky like you’ve never seen it at the museum’s planetarium and observatory. Other activities include rotating exhibits throughout the year and an IMAX movie theater.
- Discovery Green
Twelve acres of excitement await in downtown Houston. It’s called Discovery Green and is the place to browse markets, enjoy art installations and listen to the talent of live musicians on stage. Get a real feel for the people of Houston and spend a day like the locals do.
