My Story

My love of entertaining started long before I knew anything about cocktails.

When I had a party, I would pick up some beer, maybe a bottle of wine, and call it a day. Then one Christmas, I decided to make a holiday cocktail.

I was so excited.

Unfortunately, after the first sip, none of my guests wanted another one.

Let’s just say the Christmas cocktail was a flop.

A few years later, I wanted to travel more, so I took a part-time job as a cocktail waitress. That’s when I discovered just how much there was to learn about mixed drinks.

I watched the bartenders make cocktails and was fascinated by the endless combinations, beautiful colors, garnishes, and presentation. I started studying the recipes, tasting the drinks I served, and eventually worked my way behind the bar.

That’s where I really learned my cocktail basics.

I’ve discovered that when a drink doesn’t taste right, there’s usually a reason. Maybe it wasn’t made correctly, the proportions were off, or sometimes… the recipe itself just wasn’t very good.

And while I’m not the showiest bartender in the world — I’m not throwing shakers in the air or doing fancy bottle tricks — I know how to make a cocktail that tastes great, looks good, and can actually be made at home.

From Cocktails to Parties

Over the years, my love of cocktails naturally grew into a love of entertaining.

I’ve hosted plenty of parties and happy hours with family and friends, and along the way I’ve learned that the best parties aren’t necessarily the ones with the most elaborate food or the fanciest drinks.

They’re the ones where the host isn’t stuck in the kitchen all night.

That’s why I’m passionate about making entertaining easier.

I’ve learned how to choose drinks that can be prepared without a lot of fuss, how to make appetizers that don’t require spending hours in the kitchen, how to figure out what you’ll actually need for your guests, and how a little planning can make a huge difference once the party starts.

And now I’m sharing those lessons with you.

What You’ll Find Here

Whether you’re planning a casual happy hour, a holiday gathering, a backyard party, a tailgate, or just having a few friends over, you’ll find ideas to help you pull it all together.

🍹 Easy Cocktails
Simple, delicious drinks that are approachable enough for the home bartender and impressive enough to serve to guests.

🍸 Jello Shots
Fun, creative jello shots for holidays, parties, tailgates, and celebrations — including tips for making, transporting, and serving them.

🥂 Easy Appetizers
Party-friendly bites that taste great without requiring you to spend the entire day cooking.

🎉 Party Planning
Practical tips for planning drinks, food, glassware, quantities, prep, and all those little details that can make entertaining feel overwhelming.

Because you shouldn’t spend your entire party worrying about your party.

Let’s Make Your Next Party Easy

You don’t have to be a professional bartender or an experienced party planner to entertain well.

Start with a few good recipes, add a little planning, and remember that your guests aren’t looking for perfection.

They’re there to have fun.

So pour yourself a drink, grab a few appetizers, invite your favorite people, and let’s get this party started!

Cheers,

Susan

Contact Me

As always, feel free to email me at susan@easydrinksandapps.com with comments and questions or to say hello. If you have any apprehensions about making a new cocktail, reach out, and I will offer guidance where I can.

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Reader Favorites

Not sure where to start? Here are a few of the recipes and party favorites readers come back to again and again.

Ready to plan your next party?

Grab a drink, pick a few appetizers, and let’s make your next gathering one your guests will be talking about.