cocktail party ideas

[Sophia.]

Perhaps it's a bit repetitive this time of year, but I'm having a cocktail party to celebrate my birthday. Right now I'm thinking of serving the following:
- foie gras & sauternes gelee on toasts
- caviar and creme fraiche on slices of steamed fingerlings
- aioli with steamed vegetables (and maybe shrimp)
- crab salad on endive leaves
- board of assorted cheeses and breads

Anything I'm missing or should do differently? The only thing I'm really wedded to is the foie gras/sauternes gelee. There will be vegetarians present, also.
And finally, any suggestions for cocktails? I'm thinking something like champagne with fresh pomegranate, and then just setting out a full bar. Thanks!

[Diane in Bexley]

Sophia, we have been on a Cosmopolitan kick lately. For Thanksgiving, I made a large pitcher of them using pomegranate juice instead of cranberry and they were a big hit. For 8 people, 2 cups vokda, 2 cups juice, 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice, 1/2 cup triple sec or Grand Marnier.

[Sophia.]

I like the pitcher idea a lot! and I was looking at the Trader Joe's "sparklers"--they make sparkling pomegranate and blueberry juices--and I thought those would be good mixers.

[gardencub]

We do both a traditional vodka based cosmo by the pitcher here and a champagne based cosmo, replacing the vodka with champagne or other sparkling wine.

We have even made punch bowls full for big parties...

Enjoy your party...

[jenhen2]

I would suggest bacon wrapped dates stuffed with a blanched almond. Those are delicious! I would also recommend cheese puffs (pate a choux with gruyere and nutmeg) and perhaps a stuffed mushroom for the veggies in your crew. Sounds like a great party! Happy birthday!