When planning a party, there is a lot to consider: the date, time, theme, who is invited, food served, and, of course, drinks. Make sure you are well-stocked with liquor, glasses, drink mixes and plenty of garnishes, from fruit to light-up ice cubes. Get the party started by mixing up some special drinks, from tried-and-true recipes to newfound combinations. Need some inspiration? 

Check out these five cocktail recipes that are perfect for your upcoming event:

1. Moscow mule

If you love ginger and lime, the Moscow mule ticks all of the boxes. It is snappy, citrusy and easy to make. First, put ½ oz. of freshly-squeezed lime juice into a copper mug. Then, add a few ice cubes, plus 2 oz. of vodka and 6 oz. of ginger beer. Garnish with a stirring rod and pieces of lime. Cheers!

2. Wsour

Looking for a colorful drink? The whiskey sour will make your guests feel like they are on a tropical island. Combine 2 oz. bourbon with ¾ oz. of fresh lemon juice and simple syrup in a blender or cocktail shaker. Add ice, cover and shake until the container feels chilled, about 20 seconds at a time. Strain the cocktail though a dedicated strainer or spoon. Pour it into a rocks glass filled with plenty of ice. Top it off with orange slices, a cherry and some paper umbrellas. It is island time!

3. Cosmopolitan

The cosmopolitan is a classic cocktail. With its pink hue, it is perfect for a girls’ night. Mix up 2 oz. vodka with 1 oz. of cranberry juice cocktail in a cocktail shaker. Add in ¾ oz. of fresh lime juice and triple sec. Strain the drink though a spoon or a strainer into a martini glass and top with an orange twist. Then, ogle at the pretty drink you managed to create.

4. Gin and tonic

A simple mixed drink is sometimes the best for parties. To make a gin and tonic, fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Then, add 2 oz. of gin and 5 oz. of tonic water. Shake the mixture well. Add a lime wedge and you are done.

5. Bloody Mary

The bloody Mary is the right choice for many get-togethers. First, rub lemon or lime juice along the rim of the glass. Top with margarita salt and add ice. Mix together 1.5 oz. of vodka, 3 oz. of tomato juice and ½ teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, along with 3 drops of Tabasco sauce, salt and ½ teaspoon of horseradish. Pour it into the ice-filled glass. Garnish with your toppings of choice: lemon or lime wedges, celery, green onion or pickled beans work well.

Keep these recipes in mind when it comes time to plan your next party. No matter which classic drinks you choose to serve, they are sure to impress. Make sure to set out water, juice and plenty of soda to alternate between drinks. If you still need help picking the right drinks for your celebration, here is a tip: consider the theme. If it is just the girls, pink drinks will be much appreciated, but savory drinks are right for brunch. Drink up!