Going out can be tough on the bank account. Here’s how to have a banger without leaving the house
Throwing a party can be expensive in Hong Kong, what with party packages and private dining rooms charging up to thousands of dollars But if you’re looking to throw a cosy, intimate party with a couple of good friends, why not just stay in? There are plenty of ways to throw a perfectly great house party – just follow our guide. By Karl Lam
RECOMMENDED: For something more far out, these party rooms should do to the trick. Or simply organise a casual get-together at one of Hong Kong’s best bars.
Forget splurging on private dining rooms and party rooms when you have a perfect venue awaiting at home. Since most Hong Kong apartments are cramped and claustrophobic, the more minimalistic you go, the better. Once you clear away your clutter, the focal point of the room should always be the dining table. If you’re looking for a more social, casual environment, set up a few cushions and lounge chairs for a lively cocktail hour.
Set the tone with your dining set-up. Whether it’s a candelabra or some scattered rose petals, a little decoration can go a long way. Order a bespoke arrangement from Ellermann, one of the city’s best florists, or for a cheaper alternative, head to the flower market in Prince Edward and get creative! If you want to go the extra mile, prepare napkins tucked into napkin rings or opt for personalised place cards and menus, for an added touch.
Canapes? Cheese boards? Dips? There are tons of ways to go about party food. You can go the homemade or potluck route with the help of friends or have the goods delivered to your door to avoid the hassle. If there are a lot of guests, hearty portions buffet-style might work best. Alternatively, splurge on hiring a catering company, like Gingers, where for $580 per head, they’ll help prepare a full dinner party, complete with entrées like roast chicken with shallots, bacon and potato gratin.
This is where the real fun begins. Whether it’s hard liquor, fruity cocktails or non-alcoholic mocktails, there are plenty of simple drinks you can make at home. Mimosas only require some bubbly and OJ, and gin and tonics with lime are easy. While most of us don’t have bars in our apartments, you can always have a small countertop or a bar cart to display your liquor bottles and have your guests help themselves. If you want a professional, try a $5,500 two-hour glass bottle package by caterers Y Cocktail and Mocktail, inclusive of a bartender and one service staff.
You can’t have friends and guest getting bored or feeling awkward, can you? Constant entertainment is a must. Whether it’s renting a karaoke box or getting a projector to put on Netflix or game consoles, preparation is key. You’ll also need some music for the night – connect your phone to a loudspeaker and opt for bossa nova for a classy grown-up affair or a rad pop soundtrack for a fun night in. Aiming for a DJ set up? Look to Pyjama Hong Kong, where for $2,850 gets you a complete DJ control package rental complete with microphone, DJ mixer, CD players and a monitor.
Hong Kong’s party rooms have all the best parts of an awesome house party without having to do deal with the mess afterwards. Read on the find out the best places to partay.
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