The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings

Any time you host an event, always invite your core group first.

My favorite advanced icebreaker and the one I recommend you use is: What’s a great piece of media that you’ve consumed recently, and what did you like about it?

At the party, do these four things: Use name tags with first names only. Facilitate three quick icebreakers. Take a group photo. End the party on time.

What’s one of your favorite secret spots or life hacks for this city?

Start at 7:00 p.m. and end at 9:00 p.m.

Your first party should feel easy to host. Start by inviting close friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

When I throw a party, I focus on adding occupational diversity to my guest list. I invite friends who work in banking, dancing, and education in addition to those in museums, technology, and marketing.

Don’t try to compete with busy social calendars. Host your party when people are less likely to have plans.

If you want to have a bit of fun with the start and end time, you can pick a random minute around 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Sol Orwell, the co-founder of the scientific research