I believe you have an inner “Cocktail Barista” who’s ready to WOW your party guests with tasty, awe-inspiring drinks.

Halloween Jello Shots: Blood Red with Eyeballs
Susan from Easy Drinks and Appetizers

Hi, I’m Susan

Do you find making cocktails intimidating? 

Have your previous forays into cocktail-making ended in disaster? 

Do you long to wow your guests with your bartending skills but can’t figure out why your drinks taste all wrong? 

If so, you’re in the right place… I can help.

Sip Something Special and Make Your Summer Shine!

Summer is the season for sunshine, good vibes, and refreshing cocktails! Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, soaking up the sun by the pool, or cruising on a boat with friends, the perfect sip takes summer fun to the next level.

Pomegranate Orange Spritz: A Sparkling Cocktail Perfect for the Holidays
Pomegranate Orange Spritz: A Sparkling Cocktail Perfect for the Holidays
Love arrives with the astonishing Mango Margarita - Crave the sweetness, but beware of the bite
The astonishing Mango Margarita – Crave the sweetness, but beware of the bite
Endless Summer, Cooper Island, BVI
Endless Summer, Cooper Island, BVI

From creamy frozen cocktails to colorful Jello shots that are as fun to look at as they are to wiggle and devour, summer is full of tasty ways to cool down and unwind.

Introducing the Marvelous Maracuya Sour: A Tasty Tropical Cocktail from Curacao
Introducing the Marvelous Maracuya Sour: A Tasty Tropical Cocktail from Curacao
Scrubslide, Scrub Island, BVI
Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice! The Frozen Scrubslide will Delight!
Discover the Apricot Blush Cocktail - This will be your new FAVORITE Frozen Slush
Discover the Apricot Blush Cocktail – This will be your new FAVORITE Frozen Slush

Looking for the perfect drink to match your summer plans? I’ve got you covered with easy, crowd-pleasing cocktail and Jello shot recipes that are big on flavor and low on fuss.

The Only Mojito Recipe You'll Ever Need: Cool, Crisp and Classic
The Only Mojito Recipe You’ll Ever Need: Cool, Crisp and Classic
How to make the finest Bourbon Blackberry Mead Cocktail
How to make the finest Bourbon Blackberry Mead Cocktail
What is tangy, sweet and makes your mouth water? The best ever Lemon Drop Martini!
What is tangy, sweet and makes your mouth water? The best ever Lemon Drop Martini!

Think tropical, like the Blue Island Iced Tea, Endless Summer, and Jello shots in your favorite cocktail flavor, like Margarita or Mojito. Dive in and discover your new favorite drink of the season!

Cool Blue like the Caribbean, Easy to Make, and ABSOLUTELY Delightful – The Ice Breaker!
Cool Blue like the Caribbean: Easy to Make, and ABSOLUTELY Delightful – The Ice Breaker!
Scrub Island Spiced Tea
The Remarkable Scrub Island Spiced Tea: The Best Caribbean Discovery
Dive into Summer with Curacaos Absolutely Dazzling Blue Island Iced Tea Cocktail
Dive into Summer with Curacaos Absolutely Dazzling Blue Island Iced Tea Cocktail
You need to taste this mind blowing sweet and sour Jolly Rancher cocktail!
You need to taste this mind blowing sweet and sour Jolly Rancher cocktail!
Creamy Coconut Mojito – a new twist on an old favorite!
Creamy Coconut Mojito – a new twist on an old favorite!
Margaritas leaving you yearning for more? Discover the mystery of the License to Chill
Margaritas leaving you yearning for more? Discover the mystery of the License to Chill

Here’s to summer days filled with laughter, tasty food, and great memories. Sip something special and make your summer shineCheers!

Imagine…

Wowing your friends when you hand them that perfect-looking martini. Seeing them take their first sip with wide smiles and declarations of “this is delicious!” Feeling that sense of pride and accomplishment at mixing delectable drinks!

Do you want to know the secrets to mixing the best cocktails EVER? Get my free printable guide:

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If you’re looking to level up your party game with something festive, simple, and just a little bit cheeky, easy Margarita Jello Shots are your new best friend. These colorful cups of joy bring a margarita’s zesty charm in a fun, wiggly package. Even if you’ve never made a cocktail or jello in your life, don’t stress—this recipe is practically foolproof.

Made with tequila, lime juice, sweet and sour mix, and simple syrup, Margarita Jello Shots are easy to whip up and a total crowd-pleaser. And if you want to change it up, you can turn the same recipe into Strawberry or Mango Margarita Jello Shots with just one simple step. These Margarita Jello Shots fun flavors look great, add a pop of color, and bring a juicy little burst of flavor to every bite. You’ll wish you had tried them sooner! Cheers!

More AMAZING Jello Shot Recipes – Your Family & Friends will LOVE them!


Elevate Game Day with the Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser — Man Dip

Indulge your taste buds with Man Dip, an enticing appetizer featuring chili’s bold flavor. Each bite promises an irresistible combination of flavor and savory goodness. The chili, cheeses, and salsa create a flavorful blend that awakens the tastebuds. This appetizer has only four ingredients, can be made in an oven-rated serving dish, and will leave guests craving more.

Perfect for any get-together with friends and family, Man Dip is served with Tostitos Scoops (my favorite), Fritos, Blue Tortilla Chips, or French bread toast. Fire up your game day with the ultimate crowd-pleaser recipe!

Planning a Party or a Girl’s Night and don’t know what drinks to serve?

Want something pretty in pink? The pink glitter Gin Martini – I Glitterally Can’t
Want something pretty in pink? The pink glitter Gin Martini – I Glitterally Can’t
Peter Island Oceans 7 Bushwacker
The Bushwacker – A specialty drink from Peter Island, BVI
Can you feel it? Passion, Fright, Hypnotizing Hpnotic – the Sapphire Spell Martini!
Can you feel it? Passion, Fright, Hypnotizing Hpnotic – the Sapphire Spell Martini!
A Delightful Twist on Classic Cocktails: The Pear Martini with Ginger Liqueur
A Delightful Twist on Classic Cocktails: The Pear Martini with Ginger Liqueur
A Zesty Twist: The Best Bitter Orange Margarita You Can Make at Home
A Zesty Twist: The Best Bitter Orange Margarita You Can Make at Home
This holiday season, ditch the eggnog and delight with a Snowflake Martini
This holiday season, ditch the eggnog and delight with a Snowflake Martini

College Football Jello Shots! Dozens of Flavors! Team Colors!

Are you ready for the start of College Football season? I am! How would you like to be the hit of the next tailgate party supporting your College Football Team with the best-tasting Football Jello Shots ever? These Jello Shots are what every TRUE football fan needs to try! Make them in team colors and choose from dozens of Vodkas, Rum, and Whiskey flavors! You’ll CRUSH IT!

Jello Shots every TRUE Oregon Ducks fan needs to try!
Jello Shots every TRUE Oregon Ducks fan needs to try!
Jello Shots that every TRUE Georgia Bulldogs fan needs to try!
Jello Shots that every TRUE Georgia Bulldogs fan needs to try!
Jello Shots every TRUE Texas Longhorns Fan needs to try!
Jello Shots every TRUE Texas Longhorns Fan needs to try!
Jello Shots every TRUE Penn State Nittany Lions fan needs to try!
Jello Shots every TRUE Penn State Nittany Lions fan needs to try!
Jello Shots that every TRUE Notre Dame Fighting Irish fan needs to try
Jello Shots that every TRUE Notre Dame Fighting Irish fan needs to try
Jello Shots that every TRUE Ohio State Buckeyes fan needs to try!
Jello Shots that every TRUE Ohio State Buckeyes fan needs to try!

For the cocktail Barista, sleek cocktail shakers, elegant martini glasses, and handy citrus juicers make thoughtful gifts. I recommend these products because I use them myself, and they’ve become essential tools that elevate both the style and ease of crafting delicious drinks at home.

3 Reasons This is the Best Pimento Cheese Appetizer You’ll EVER Make
3 Reasons This is the Best Pimento Cheese Appetizer You’ll EVER Make

As a former-Northeasterner-turned Southerner, I wanted to create a fabulous appetizer for a party but hadn’t a clue what might be a party-pleaser. Enter: Pimento cheese! Everyone loves it, but I never tried this creamy and slightly spicy delicacy till I moved South–and then I became a believer!

48 Hours in Las Vegas: A Birthday Experience with Holiday Sparkle

Las Vegas has always been a great place to make a quick getaway, so what better way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or girls’ weekend! With so much to see and do, we made every moment count, from staying at the opulent Venetian Hotel to experiencing the city’s seasonal charm.

Juliet Cocktail Room, a sleek and stylish bar quickly became our favorite. The moody ambiance set the tone for an unforgettable cocktail experience. The Queen’s Garden and Monkey Slide Martini were artfully crafted, showcasing unique flavor combinations that left us impressed (and maybe a little buzzed).

Discover how to make the most of a whirlwind 48-hour Vegas adventure with insider tips, must-try cocktail recipes, and stories that blend excitement with indulgence!


Espresso Martini, Ocean House 19 Willemstad, Curacao
Espresso Martini

Pigeon Forge is a fantastic place to visit because of its beautiful natural surroundings and fun attractions. Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s an excellent spot for nature lovers. You can go hiking, see wildlife, and enjoy stunning mountain views. Each season brings something special, like colorful wildflowers in the spring and fantastic fall foliage.

Dollywood 70
Dollywood 70
View from Clingmans Dome
View from Clingmans Dome
Dollywood Umbrellas
Dollywood Umbrellas
A Zesty Twist: The Best Bitter Orange Margarita You Can Make at Home
A Zesty Twist: The Best Bitter Orange Margarita You Can Make at Home
Indulge in Decadence: The Pecan Pie Martini, You Wish You Tried Sooner
Indulge in Decadence: The Pecan Pie Martini, You Wish You Tried Sooner

Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas are a paradise for food and drink enthusiasts. The town offers a wide variety of Southern cuisine, with places like the Dancing Bear Lodge Townsend, TN, providing a fine dining experience using locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, rustic setting. 

Espresso Martini with Cold Foam Dancing Bear
Espresso Martini with Cold Foam Dancing Bear

For those with a taste for local spirits, a visit to Sugarlands Distillery is a must. Here, you can take a tour to witness the making of their award-winning moonshine and indulge in tastings of various flavors. Whether craving a hearty meal, a sweet treat, or a unique cocktail, Gatlinburg has many options to satiate your palate.

Read more about my trip and get the recipes for some of Tennessee’s best cocktails.

Headed to Charleston?

Entering my favorite Charleston restaurant feels like coming home to a cozy haven where I can leave the hectic day behind me and be replaced by the promise of a delightful evening ahead. The soft lighting casts a friendly glow, setting the stage for an energetic experience. Discover the vibrant cocktail scene in Charleston, SC, where every sip tells a story of Southern charm.

Dirty Martini Halls Chophouse
Dirty Martini Halls Chophouse
Guaranteed to find pure gold and exhilarate your senses: the Bourbon Gold Rush!
Guaranteed to find pure gold and exhilarate your senses: the Bourbon Gold Rush!
French 76
French 76 Halls Chophouse
Last Word, Felix
Last Word, Felix

Have a sweet tooth? I do. Then you’ll love Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar.

Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston
Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar, Charleston

8 Exotic, Amazing and Effortless drinks from the British Virgin Islands

Travel and photography have always been my passion. Now I can share my travel stories and photographs with you, along with the best exotic cocktail recipes the BVIs offer. Click here to check out the videos of local Bartenders mixing some of the best exotic tropical drinks the BVIs have to offer. Enjoy!

Drinks from the Cooper Island Beach Club, BVI
Drinks from the Cooper Island Beach Club, BVI

5 Easy, Amazing and Unique Drinks from Nashville, TN

My friends and I recently traveled to Nashville for a 50th Birthday celebration. While in Nashville, I found 5 great-tasting, easy drink recipes that I know you’ll love to try. Check out the local bartenders sharing their recipes for these 5 easy drinks.

You can also read about our trip and check out the pictures of the most fun people in Nashville! Click here for the recipes and story.


Planning a trip to Cleveland, check out The Vault, and order the best tasting Chocolate Martini ever! Brooklyn shows you how to make this delicious cocktail!

Brooklyn from the Vault
Brooklyn from the Vault making a Chocolate Martini! Thank you Brooklyn!!!!

While traveling in Ireland, I learned how to make 5 Traditional Irish Drinks to serve on St Patrick’s Day

On a trip to Ireland, I learned how to make 5 Traditional Irish Drinks. I serve them on St Patrick’s Day, and any day I want to feel the luck of the Irish. Check out the story here.

Galway Ireland
Galway Ireland

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