Cheers to You!

Nothing brings sparkle to a gathering like a bit of bubbly or a fun cocktail/mocktail. You don't have to be a master bartender to make your libations come alive. If you've got a theme going, it's easy to find a recipe - or rename a favorite - to match with your scheme. You can even create a drink and name it for your honoree.

If you are serving a crowd, consider something easy that can be doubled, tripled or quadrupled and prepare it ahead of time in a pitcher or dispenser. Cut up any garnishes and let guests embellish themselves.

If you have a smaller group, print out the ingredients and instructions so guests can make their own and customize as they wish.

For mocktail versions, try adding club soda instead of alcohol.

Themed or festive glassware can also add to the fun. I often check out my local Dollar Tree, especially for things like beer steins, Irish coffee mugs, wine glasses, martini glasses, etc. You can't go wrong for the price!

Below are recipes for some of my favorites:

French 75 - batch recipe (from Revel & Delight)

(make it a French 76 but substituting vodka for gin)

Old Fashioned (from Liquor.com)

Tequila sunrise (from Art of Cocktails.com)

Margarita - batch recipe (from MyBartender.com)

Bloody Mary - (how to create a Bloody Mary bar from Foodie Crush)

Stinger - (from MyBartender.com)

Honey Bee Bellini (from MyBartender.com)

Aperol spritz (from MyBartender.com)

Espresso martini - batch recipe (from Revel and Delight)