Mocktail 101

Let's talk booze.

When the warm weather hits, I'm all about some cocktails on the patio. Like this:

This season has been a little different ... in a booze-free way. But that doesn't mean I don't still love a little patio sittin' and sippin'!

I wanted to share with you the basics of putting together a pretty mean mocktail. Whether you are with child, the evening's designated driver, not an alcohol drinker by nature, or just looking to cut out some empty calories, mocktails can be just what the doctor ordered.

Here's what you need to put together a mocktail as good as the "real thing."

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Pretty Glassware

I think the glass makes all the difference. Some nights are red Solo cup nights; some nights are girly stemware nights. I have some very thin and delicate glasses that are hand-wash only (Ian's favorite ... HA) and they are my go-to for cocktails. You can see one of the styles in the photo above with the pansies. Also, don't forget a fun swizzle stick! I found a pack of hot pink flamingos as seen above from the Dollar Tree. Also, a rock candy stick is a really cute stirrer.

(FYI, the adorable Mr. & Mrs. lowball glasses are from Furbish and they are only $22 here. Really cute gift idea for a bridal/wedding shower, anniversary gift, or just for ME - sooo, let me know if you need my address, wink wink)

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Basic Non-Alcoholic Mixers

I love the Stirrings mixers (you can find them at some grocery stores, TJ Maxx, World Market, Homegoods) because they make drinks so darn easy. Flavored sodas like the blood orange San Pellegrino are also awesome. And of course you have the standards -- pineapple juice, cranberry juice, limeade. Regardless of what sort of juices you add in, you need bubbles! This is where the sparkling water or club soda come in. You can mix a juice and a bubbly half-and-half, or to taste.

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Special Garnishes

This is what makes a drink a COCKTAIL. Some of my favorite additions are cucumber slices, citrus slices, or fresh herbs. I also love making homemade simple syrups using herbs like dried lavender. Frozen blueberries are awesome for keeping your drink cool. And while you could certainly go with fresh lemon slices, how cute are the candied lemon slices? One of these on the rim of a class would be so darn fab.

You can bet I'll be enjoying a mocktail this weekend with the good weather we are expecting. Cheers!