1. Dress for the occasion

Just because you’re going to be at home doesn’t mean you should frock up. Nothing ruins a party atmosphere like a host in her pyjamas.

2. Invite people

Unlike a real bar, you’re unlikely to a lot of foot traffic popping in. So it’s essential you have guests. Assign each guest a spirit or mixer to bring with them and then you’ll have an enviable range of drinks you can create. 

3. Decorate daaarling

Ambience is essential. Rearrange your furniture to divide the party space into sections. This helps friends who are regularly at your house feel like they are somewhere new. Set the mood by dimming the lights or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, switch out your regular light bulbs for coloured ones. 

4. Shaken, stirred, stiff – whatever –just serve drinks! 

Simply because it’s not a cocktail party without them. Make sure there is a designated bar area and if the budget allows – hire someone to man it. Here are some great cocktail recipes from Absolut to get you started:

ABSOLUT Twist

45ml ABSOLUT Vodka

Top with lemonade

Build in a tall glass.  Garnish with fresh lime wedge.

ABSOLUT Cosmo

45ml ABSOLUT Citron

30ml cranberry juice

15ml triple sec

15ml fresh lime juice

Shake and strain into cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

ABSOLUT Bloody 

45ml ABSOLUT Vodka

60ml tomato juice

15ml lemon juice

2 dashes of hot sauce

2 dashes Worcestershire sauce

Build and serve. Garnish with a celery stalk.

ABSOLUT Blues 

45ml ABSOLUT Vodka

20ml lemon juice

2 teaspoons sugar

Top with soda

6 fresh blueberries

Build in a tall glass and stir. Top with soda and garnish with fresh blueberries and a mint sprig.

Join www.facebook.com/absolutnewzealand  for more great recipes 

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