THE COOL CLUB
If you’ve forgotten what it’s like to have a summer party, you’d be forgiven. But this year, calendars are set to be jam-packed full of plans, which is a definite cause for celebration. Whether you’re going glamping with the girls, hosting a dinner party, or putting on a backyard barbecue, the drinks might be the last thing on your mind. However, the food and drinks that accompany your do can give that extra special finish.
Rather than adding to your to-do list, we’ve done the hard work for you, and recommended our top tipples to go with your summer soiree.
1. A glamping staycation
Ditch your heels and grab the wellies, because nature is calling! From hen parties and time away with the family, glamping is one of the most versatile summer plans. Glamping involves packing light and thinking smart – so you’ll need to plan your food and drink ahead of time.
When it comes to glamping, or camping, we love a traditional gin and tonic. It’s easy, it’s fresh and deliciously moreish. And what are the two things you can’t have a gin and tonic without? Ice and a slice! Invest in a decent cool box and some Super Cubes before you go, your G&T will thank you.
2. A family picnic party
If you’re looking for a safe summer plan that the kids will love, a picnic wins every time. It’s budget-friendly, you don’t need to pay for a venue, and there’s loads of space for the children to burn off their picnic food. No picnic would be complete without a super spread of nibbles and drinks. For kids check out this Gummy Fish mocktail and this Watermelon Cooler – or if you’re keen to get more fruit into them, a smoothie always goes down well.
For the grown ups, a quintessentially British Pimms No.1 should go down a treat, and you can even make it alcohol-free. We also love this alcohol-free Apple and Elderflower, that’s bursting with summer vibes.
3. A back garden BBQ party
No barbecue would be complete without some craft cocktails to shake things up. We especially like a Woo Woo, which always goes down a treat, and are loving this Mango and Strawberry Margherita, that offers a fun twist on the classic cocktail.
If you’re hosting a barbecue, you might be stuck for space in the fridge and looking for ingenious ways to keep drinks cold. Aside from ice buckets, you could also utilise garden planters or paddling pools, putting drinks at the bottom before layering with lots of ice.
4. A festival or outdoor event
If you’re going to a festival or outdoor gathering, the last thing you’ll want to be doing is messing about with mixers. Make it easy for yourself and indulge in a refreshing can of cider, like Kobbarburg. But whatever you do, don’t forget to take a couple of ice buckets, some bags of Party Ice and a cooler – there’s nothing worse than a warm, flat beverage on a hot summer’s day!
5. Evening garden dinner
When the day turns to night and you’re in need of a boost, there’s nothing more fitting than an Espresso Martini. Set the scene with some mood lighting, outdoor cushions and watch the sun set while you make up for lost time with good friends.
If you’re looking for more drink inspiration to accompany your summer plans, check out some more recipes here, or download our free Little Book of Drinks for Kids.
