As you’ve probably already discovered, I love to entertain! If I’m being completely honest, part of the reason I love entertaining so much is getting to create and mix new cocktail recipies for my guests. One of my favorite things to do is create a signature cocktail for each event I host. There is just something about creating a drink that ties in perfectly with the occasion and theme! I’ve had some successes and some failures that leads me to my very first tip! Always test the recipe before the event! Ha ha…this seems like a no-brainer, but you can waste a lot of money on a recipe for a crowd, and then the cocktail is not so great…or, the cocktail may be good, but it gives a terrible hangover! (We won’t discuss the signature cocktail at our family Christmas party last year). You do not want your guests to remember their hangover before what a great party it was!
If you’ll be hosting guests in the near future, here are a few things to ask yourself as you set out to create your own signature drink:
- What’s the occasion?
- How many guests will be in attendance?
- Will there be a toast?
- Should you make a “batch” drink or mix individual drinks each time?
- What season is it and can are you able to use flavors of that season?
- Will you want to serve a signature cocktail both before and after dinner?
An important point to remember is to always have non-alcoholic options available as well for those attendees who don’t drink alcohol. Be sure to serve them in some beautiful cocktail glasses as well, but maybe a little different.
I’m excited to announce, each Friday I’ll be hosting a virtual cocktail hour at 4 p.m. Central time. During this time I’ll be sharing some of my favorite cocktail recipes, showing you what’s in my liquor cabinet and bar cart, sharing great entertaining tips and showcasing products from Southern Stitched Designs that pair nicely with any get together. Cheers y’all!