Let’s be honest—some of the best nights happen right at home, especially when there’s a cocktail (or three) involved. Whether you’re planning a chilled date night, hosting your girls for a catch-up, or just feel like treating yourself to something a little bit fancy—this post is for you!

I’ve rounded up a few of my absolute go-to cocktails that are not only easy to make (no bar training required!) but also guaranteed to bring a bit of sparkle to your evening. Think fizzy, fruity, floral, and a little cheeky—just how we like it.

Along the way, I’ll share some mocktail swaps, fun drink facts to impress your friends, and links to my favourite tools and glassware to help you up your cocktail game 🍸

So, pop on a playlist, grab your shaker, and let’s have a DIY cocktail night you’ll actually remember (well… maybe).

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🍃 Garden Party Mule

A floral twist on the classic Moscow Mule

Did you know the Moscow Mule was invented as a clever marketing ploy in the 1940s to sell vodka and copper mugs? Genius, right? I always serve mine in proper copper mule mugs for that full garden party vibe—they look gorgeous and keep your drink icy cold. This one’s fresh, fizzy, and a little bit fancy—ideal for sipping in the garden or on the sofa with your feet up.

You’ll need:

To make:

1. Muddle your mint leaves in a copper mug (or your prettiest glass).
2. Add vodka, elderflower liqueur, and lime juice.
3. Fill with ice and top with ginger beer.
4. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with mint and lime.

💡 Mocktail version: Swap the vodka and elderflower liqueur for elderflower cordial and soda water.

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🍓 Raspberry Spritz

A fruity, bubbly cocktail with a delicate balance of sweet and tart flavours

This vibrant cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. It’s fresh, slightly fizzy, and ideal for summer evenings, brunches, or whenever you want a little sparkle. For the perfect presentation, try these stylish globe glasses—they really elevate the drink.

You’ll need:

Instructions:

1. Fill a large wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the raspberry liqueur and fresh lemon juice.
3. Top with prosecco and soda water for a fizzy finish.
4. Gently stir to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh raspberries, and serve chilled.

💡 Mocktail Version: Swap the raspberry liqueur for raspberry syrup, and use non-alcoholic sparkling wine or soda water instead.

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🍑 Rum for Your Life

A tropical passionfruit martini with a cheeky twist

If you’re after a drink that tastes like a beach holiday in a glass, this is it! Passionfruit is technically a berry (who knew?), and it’s full of vitamin C, so we’re counting this as health-ish 😉. I use Dead Man’s Fingers Passionfruit Rum for a little extra kick, and a cocktail shaker to make shaking it all up a breeze.

For the perfect martini presentation, try these elegant martini glasses. They add a stylish touch to any cocktail night!

You’ll need:

To make:

1. Shake the rum, purée, lime juice, and sugar syrup with ice.
2. Strain into a martini glass.
3. Top with prosecco and garnish with passionfruit or a slice of lime.

💡 Mocktail version: Mix passionfruit purée, lime juice, sugar syrup, and top with sparkling apple juice.

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🥃 Bonus: The Tiny Guinness Shot

Dessert-style layered shot that looks like a baby pint

This shot is all about the look. It’s like a mini dessert in a glass! These mini shot glasses are perfect for showing it off. Despite the name, there’s no Guinness in sight—just creamy, coffee-flavoured goodness.

You’ll need:

To make:

1. Pour coffee liqueur into a shot glass.
2. Carefully layer Irish cream on top using the back of a spoon.

💡 Mocktail version: Try chocolate milk and vanilla cream for a fun, dessert-style alternative.

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📅 Free Printables

Want to make your DIY cocktail night even easier? Grab these free printables!

• Download the Cocktail Shopping List (PDF)
• Download Printable Recipe Cards (PDF)

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Which one are you shaking up first? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Insta @life_with_megan_ with your creations. Can’t wait to see your cocktail nights in action! 🍹✨

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Love, Megan xx