Ladies Night Cocktail Party

Host a ladies night cocktail party as a precursor to a night out to watch the new movie, Fifty Shades Darker! I’ve partnered with Universal Pictures in order to bring you fun ideas to make it an event!

Alright ladies, the wait is nearly over and the next installment in the Fifty Shades series, Fifty Shades Darker, is about to hit theaters on February 10. That’s just in time to host a “Galentine’s day” party, or ladies night cocktail party for your best girl friends, and go see the movie together afterward. This Valentine’s Day, slip into something a shade darker!

I put together this ladies night soiree to give you some ideas on how you can make the night more fun. You’ll find a simple cocktail bar with signature drink recipe, easy food, a fun photo ‘booth’, a playlist, and more!

Ladies Night Cocktail Party – bar

A little extra attention was paid to the bar area since this a cocktail party. Hanging a “cheers” banner and tassels highlights the space but is something anyone can do. Since we’re celebrating the movie, Fifty Shades Darker, all the decor is black and silver, with some color contrast from the flowers.

Draping black lace fabric across the bar seemed apropos, and serving up 50 Shades of Grey wine was a must!

I created a signature cocktail for the festivities: 1/2 ounce blackberry liqueur, topped with sparkling wine, and a couple of dashes of orange or cherry bitters. Garnish with fresh blackberries and an edible flower on the side of the glass.

Write down or print out the recipe to the signature cocktail so guests can mix their own. Add a sweet detail to glasses by tying on a long strand of ribbon to hang from the stems.

Ladies Night Cocktail Party – food

For the food, keeping it simple but tasty was important. I set up the bar cart with appetizers and desserts including: California rolls, spicy chicken cups, individual crudites & dip cups, dark chocolate biscotti, and an assortment of mini desserts from the bakery. I also included mini pasta skewers in the lounge seating area.

Speaking of seating, I set up the space to have a lounge feel. Big pillows were placed on the floor, inviting guests to get cozy.

Ladies Night Cocktail Party – fun details

In order to bring on the fun factor and get excited about the movie, I set up a photo booth wall using a Mylar fringe door curtain, and provided feather boas, and masquerade masks {because there’s a masquerade party in the movie}.

You can send guests home with fun party favors like a copy of the book, cool Tee’s, makeup bag, and other lady-like items.

Set the mood of the party by creating a playlist using the original soundtrack from the movie, listed above.

Doesn’t this party look fun? It was a blast and I was thrilled to be able to share it with my girlfriends. I hope you’re inspired to do the same.

Cheers!