New Years Eve will soon be upon us and I am always searching for creative way to save money and still throw a fun party. Try staying home this year and host a very modest party. Forget the new clothes and fancy-pants black-tie. Instead, opt in for an Ugly Sweater party or require guests to wear their garden clothes and make it into a Winter Garden Party. To make an inexpensive centerpiece by a one gallon pot of sedum, divide the sedum up and pot into mini-containers that the guests can take home as a gift (see the photo above).
One of the best ways to curtail the spending is to say no to the open bar and fix only one fabulous and memorable drink for the party. I love the New Year’s Eve Lemon Berry Mint Cocktail recipe below. For a non-alcoholic version, try adding a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda instead of the vodka.
And don’t forget the most important part – choose a designated driver for your event. Please do not drink and drive. Happy New Year!
New Year’s Eve Lemon Berry Mint Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
• 2 oz vodka
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 1/2 oz cherry juice
• 1 tsp sugar OR 1 oz simple syrup
• fresh mint leaves
• cherries for garnish
Directions:
Muddle the mint and simple syrup in a martini shaker. Add ice and all other ingredients. Shake. Strain liquid into an ice filled glass. Garnish with a cherry.
