Cocktails - Cocktail Party Basics

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here are several ways you can approach the beverages you have available for a cocktail party.

If you already have a decently stocked bar you can approach it they way I do. Every year we replenish what's been depleted and add 1-2 new items, after 11 years we've built up quite a nice assortment.
Then we add a few non-alcoholic mixers: juices, sodas, cream, etc.
And a few garnish items: sugar, salt, citrus fruit, celery stalks, etc.
With a compliment of beer and wine, we can make most drinks requested.

If you want a stocked bar and are just starting out, start with a few basics: Rum, Gin, Vodka, Whiskey, and 2-3 of your favorite flavored apertifs, liquors, schnapps, etc.

The cheapest way to go, which works best for those with no interest in a full bar is to pick a signature drink or two and just buy what you need for those drinks. Pick a party theme and choose 1-2 appropriate cocktails. Webtender.com is a good resource for finding any number of drink recipes, and you can find drinks by ingredients or name.

Just remember to offer a few non-alcoholic options as well.

Drink Ideas:
Broadway Nights - Big Appletini
Sex and the City - Cosmopolitan (of course!)
Carribbean Getaway - Ocean Breeze
Mexican Fiesta - Mojito
Girls Night Out - Pomegranate Champagne

The point is to have fun, so pick something low key that you can make up in large batches and enjoy yourself.