How to Throw Your Own White House Cocktail Party: 'Dos and Don'ts' From the Experts

With the return of the cocktail party tradition on Wednesday night, the Obamas have brought the era of social glam back to the White House.

If you're feeling festive and want to know how to put together your own fabulous party, read on to find out the biggest do’s and don’ts of cocktail etiquette from the Kennedy’s former social secretary Letitia Baldrige and party planner to the stars, David Tutera.

Do:

Provide your guests with an inviting atmosphere, good ambiance background music and plenty of seating areas conducive to conversation, says Tutera. You may want to make sure that you keep your food away from the bar to avoid overcrowding (among other potential diasters.

Don’t:

Underestimate the appetites of your guests. The quickest way to put a damper on any party, Tutera says, is to run out of food or drink. But don’t freak out either, a frantic host can also easily ruin all the fun.

Do:

Drink cranberry juice, soda and other non-alcoholic drinks, says Letitia Baldrige. “You don’t want to be ashamed of your own behavior, as one too many cocktails will highlight your worst habits.

Don’t:

Eat anything at the cocktail parties, says Baldrige. “A mayonnaised hand is a no-no,” she said. “The last thing you want to be remembered for is a moment of disgust. Some people used to pig out at the White House. That’s so unattractive.” Bottom line: eat before you come, or plan on heading to dinner afterward.

Do:

Pay attention to your guest list. Feel free to have an eclectic mix, but you also want to make sure your guests will get along well, Tutera said.

Don’t:

Get too political or stage a protest against your guests, Baldrige cautions. “It’s plain bad manners to protest. It’s a sign of a real loser without class.” Leave talk of your election choice at home!

Do:

Consider the economy and throw a recession-chic party. Tutera suggests serving a signature cocktail, which eliminates the need for a fully stocked bar. Setting up a beverage station can also eliminate the need for a bartender. Skip the caterer and order appetizers from your favorite restaurant. As for décor, Tutera suggests using real linens to add color and sophistication, as well as the use of paper cocktail napkins, an extremely inexpensive touch.