7 Elegant Ways to Serve Summer Drinks

Nice little things

While food may be the star of a summer party, the drinks (the first thing guests will reach for) are what truly set the scene. But you don't have to fiddle with a complicated recipe to serve impressive drinks. Even the simplest ones can be elevated for a special occasion with a creative approach.

Garden decorations

Prepare a selection of drink toppings by gathering the most beautiful herbs, vegetables, or even edible flowers. Trim the herbs into neat individual bunches and slice the vegetables into thin ribbons. They will add extra flavor and a beautiful finish to any drink.

Edible cocktail sticks

Summer melon makes a geometric garnish that doubles as a cocktail stirrer. Use a spoon to scoop out balls or cut out cubes with a knife; thread pieces of different colors and shapes for a mesmerizing décor. You can even freeze them on a baking sheet before serving to help chill drinks.

Freeze colorful ice

Who says ice has to be made only from water? Puree various fruits (such as cherries, pineapple, or kiwi) and arrange them in an ice cube tray, following the order of the colors of the rainbow. Freeze until solid, fill a glass with your favorite flavor combination, and pour your chosen drink. Bonus: make a salad with the remaining fruit to complement the drinks.

Keep drinks chilled in the cart

Fill the cart with ice and decorate it with freshly cut flowers—this drink cooler makes a picnic feel like a garden party. Plus, after the party, when the ice melts, you can use the cart to go around the garden and water the plants.

Sprinkles for decoration

A glass with a decorated rim is what really sets the mood for a party. Prepare plates with delicious decorations—flavored salt or sugar, crumbled cookies, chopped nuts, rainbow sprinkles, or even cotton candy. Offer water or citrus slices to wet the rim of the glass, so guests can choose their favorite combination.

Vintage glasses

Ditch the plastic cups (in the trash, of course) and opt for vintage glassware instead. Whether they're from your grandmother's dresser or found at a flea market, these retro glasses will add a unique touch to your party. And they don't even have to be from the same set! Bring your favorite mismatched glasses—this eclectic mix will be just the thing.

Living decorations

This sweet detail doubles as a souvenir and a name card. Glue air plants to a cocktail stick, then attach decorative tape below so guests can easily identify their drink. Since air plants don't require soil or much water, this plant decor will last throughout a hot summer day.



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