Cocktail night at yours? Fun! But oh, the pressure to get the drinks just right! A quick plan always helps the night run smoothly and ensures the cocktails flow.

Ok here’s where you start. 

Whether you’re planning a sophisticated soirée or a casual night of fun, having the right setup will make all the difference. From essential spirits to stylish presentation, we’ve got everything you need to throw a next-level cocktail night that your friends won’t stop talking about!

Step 1: Stock Up on Spirits

A great cocktail night starts with a solid lineup of spirits. Make sure you have:

• Vodka – A versatile base for countless cocktails.
• Gin – Essential for classics like the Gin & Tonic or Negroni.
• Rum – Light and dark varieties for everything from Daiquiris to Mojitos.
• Tequila – Must-have for Margaritas and Palomas.
• Whisky – Bourbon or Scotch for Old Fashioneds and Whisky Sours.
• Liqueurs – Aperol, Cointreau, Campari, and Vermouth to for more options and to elevate your cocktails.

For cocktail inspo see our cocktail recipes

Step 2: Gather Your Mixers & Garnishes

Cocktails need the right balance of flavours, so be sure to have these essentials:

• Tonic & soda water – Perfect for refreshing highballs.
• Cola & ginger beer – Great for Whisky & Cola or Moscow Mules.
• Bitters – Adds complexity to cocktails like an Old Fashioned.
• Simple syrup & honey – Sweeteners that pair well with multiple spirits.
• Fresh citrus – Lemons, limes, grapefruits and oranges for fresh juice and garnishes.
• Olives, cherries & herbs – Elevate presentation and flavour.

Step 3: Essential Bar Tools

The right tools to mix like a pro:

• Cocktail shaker – For shaking up Margaritas, Cosmos, and more.
• Mixing glass & bar spoon – Essential for stirred cocktails like Negronis.
• Jigger – Ensures precise measurements for balanced drinks.
• Muddler – Crush fresh ingredients for maximum flavour.
• Strainer – Keeps ice and pulp out of your drinks.
• Blender – If you want to make icy slushie cocktails
• Wine & bottle opener – For all your beverage needs.

Step 4: Choose Your Signature Cocktails

Plan a few go-to drinks for the night:

• Classic Margarita – Tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, simple syrup.
• Negroni – Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth.
• Whisky Sour – Whisky, lemon juice, simple syrup, bitters.
• Paloma – Tequila, Grapefruit juice, lime juice & soda water
• Espresso Martini – Vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, simple syrup.
• Mojito – White rum, mint, lime juice, simple syrup, soda water.

Step 5: Set the Scene

A great cocktail night isn’t just about the drinks—ambience matters too:

• Glassware – Have the right glasses for each drink (rocks glasses, highballs, martini glasses, etc.).
• Ice – Keep plenty of ice on hand for shaking, stirring, and serving.
• Music – Create a fun playlist to set the vibe.
• Lighting – Use warm lighting or candles for a cozy feel.
• Decor – A well-styled bar cart/table setup adds to the experience.

Now that you’ve got the game plan, it’s time to hit the shops and grab everything you need to make your cocktail night a total hit. 

We’ve made it easy! Here’s your ultimate checklist – Screenshot for the shops!

Liquor & Liqueurs:

• Vodka
• Gin
• White & dark rum
• Tequila
• Whisky (bourbon or Scotch)
• Aperol
• Cointreau
• Campari
• Prosecco (for spritz)
• Sweet & dry vermouth

Mixers & Extras:

• Tonic water
• Soda water
• Cola
• Ginger beer
• Simple syrup (or make your own sugar & water)
• Honey
• Bitters
• Fresh lemons, limes, and oranges
• Fresh mint and basil
• Olives & cocktail cherries
• Ice

Bar Tools:

• Cocktail shaker
• Mixing glass & bar spoon
• Jigger
• Muddler
• Strainer

You’re all set to shake, stir, and sip your way through the party. Get ready for top-tier cocktails and endless laughs. Cheers to a night that’ll go down in the group chat history!

BUY the essentials right here: