The Party
The idea of having “The Cocktail Party” came about in 1996 while we were living in Omaha, Nebraska. Although we had many friends, it seemed that there was just never enough time to get together to simply socialize. Rob longed for the days when his parents, Rose and Chiff, would get together with other couples for these types of parties. They would have these parties at a different home each time and when the party was at Rob’s house, he got to observe, first-hand these get-togethers.
One unique thing about these Cocktail Parties was that the men almost always wore a jacket and tie and the women wore dresses. The food and drink were wonderful, and the music always cool. But there was something else almost magical about them. It wasn’t until many, many years later, that Rob realized that these were special affairs not because of the food or drink or even the attire but rather, it was because of the PEOPLE who attended! All of the people at these parties were very unique personalities and all of them were very dear to Rose and Chiff. These parties gave these special people an opportunity, by welcoming each other into their homes, to convey their love for one another.
And so it goes, Rob got on his high horse and began crusading and nagging Debbie about his crazy idea of having a real “Cocktail Party”. A Party at which there would be a full bar with most any type of mixed drink available as well specially selected wines and beers; a Party in which guests would bring their favorite appetizer; and of course, one in which the music would reflect the cool, swank lifestyle of the fifties and sixties. No, not rock and roll, but rather the hip music that mere teenagers could never appreciate, Be-Bop, jazz and standards. A place where artists like Steve Allen, Sammy Davis Jr., Dizzy Gillespie and Ferrante and Teicher would rule. And of course a place where the Rat Pack still lives! Francis Albert et. al. Would reign supreme!
So finally after much planning the first cocktail party was held on August 17th, 1996. Rose was in town for that first party and helped us with much of the planning. Finally at 7:30PM guests began to arrive, the music was started, Tiki torches were lit, cocktails were poured, a few cigars were fired up and the party began. Debbie’s Uncle Frank even arrived in his fully restored 1960-something Ford Galaxy convertible. The night was magical and ended well after midnight.
It should be said at this point that although this was a “Cocktail” party no one overindulged. “The Cocktail Party” is NOT about getting drunk. It’s about a lifestyle of cool, swank relaxation. It is a place for a unique group of diverse people to get together for great conversation and laughter.
It was decided right then and there that “The Cocktail Party” would be an annual event. But after five parties Rob received an offer to work in St. Cloud, Minnesota. We pulled up stakes and made the big move and found the people that we met wonderful. The big question was then, “Would The Cocktail Party survive?” The Sixth Annual Cocktail Party would have to go on at their home in Sartell, Minnesota.
And so it did. On August 4th 2001 the 6th Annual Cocktail Party occured... and what a party it was! Be sure to check out the photos on our photos page.
The 7th Annual Cocktail Party continued the tradition complete with a morning after limo Ride to Mulligan's. The 8th Annual Cocktail Party will be on August 2nd this year. We hope to see you there!
