Rediscover the Art of Hosting with Author Nick Gray’s Bestselling Book
In a world where social connections have become more vital than ever, author Nick Gray introduces a refreshing approach to hosting with his book, “The 2-Hour Cocktail Party.” With over 500 parties under his belt, Gray combines his practical expertise and personal experiences to offer readers a guide to creating memorable gatherings, no matter the scale. With summer party season in the swing, it’s the perfect beginner’s guide to throwing your own soiree, however large or small.
Gray’s philosophy challenges the notion that extravagant events are necessary for meaningful social engagement. Instead, he emphasizes that all it takes is a simple and inviting reason for guests to step out of their homes. Whether it’s a casual happy hour, an intimate cocktail party, or a neighborhood get-together, “The 2-Hour Cocktail Party” provides readers with the essential tools to make any event a success.
Simply the Best caught up with Gray just in time to make South Florida’s slowest party season shine.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF YOUR BOOK?
To teach people how to host a happy hour that will help them make new friends, meet their neighbors, and build their network.
WHAT INSPIRED THIS?
I went to a lot of bad events in New York City. Networking events, loud parties, all these things that were very hard to meet new people. I decided to learn how to host a good party. Then my friends asked me how to host their own parties. I made a Google Doc that got passed around, and eventually, that turned into my book, “The 2-Hour Cocktail Party.”
WHAT ARE SOME QUICK TIPS?
• Host your gathering on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday night. These are not socially competitive nights, so you will have a higher attendance rate and make it easier for people to say yes to your invitation.
• Make sure you set both a start time and an end time.
• Limit your event to only 2 hours long.
• Use name tags and a quick series of introductions.
• Send a series of 3 reminder messages.
HOW DID YOU LEARN THIS?
When I first moved to New York City, I did not have very good social skills—but I knew that I wanted to meet people. I found that everyone wants to be invited to a party. It was an easy way for me to meet new people. I ended up hosting hundreds of happy hours, dinner parties, networking events, and cocktail parties. Through trial and error, I learned that there was a formula for a successful event that anyone could learn. I call it the “NICK party formula.”
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START PLANNING PARTIES?
There’s a loneliness epidemic or a “friendship recession” happening. And I moved to New York City because I wanted to meet new people and make new friends. I wanted to be surrounded by people who would inspire me.
HOW WILL THIS HELP PEOPLE OVERCOME INSECURITY, ANXIETY, ETC?
Most people have forgotten how to gather and make small talk! I’ve written a step-by-step guide that shows how even introverts can be successful and learn how to host a party or a happy hour. People with social anxiety want to know what to expect. When you let them know an approximate agenda, who will be there, and what they might have in common with them, that helps to give them the confidence and courage to show up, start new conversations, and meet new people.
WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE IN NY?
I loved living in New York City. There is no place like it. The people, the talent, the creative class, the food, the culture—New York City is amazing. I was able to launch my last business there, Museum Hack, where we were working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. That is my favorite museum in the whole world.