Every epic party begins with a plan. Creating an inspiration board is a fun way to get organized and wrap your mind around all the little details that are going to make your shindig special. There’s no right or wrong here – from party outfits to cocktail recipes and makeup inspiration – everything goes!

Once you’ve done your prep, your next hurdle is the holiday power hour. That very special sliver of time before your guests are scheduled to arrive when, arguably, the most work happens. From prepping the bar and eats to tidying up, all the seemingly small tasks have a way of adding up pretty damn quickly!

A great way to maximize the power hour is by preparing gourmet batch cocktails ahead of time. Making individual drinks for guests can really cut into your prep and then hang time. We suggest making a pitcher of something delicious, like this East Apple Cider and Tonic just before your pals arrive so you can spend the evening enjoying their company, instead of fussing over shakers and bitters.

Bombay Sapphire is one our favourite spirits year round, but we especially love bringing it into the mix around the holidays. The East Apple Cider and Tonic was developed by Robin Kaufman, who drew inspiration from the warm, spicy and festive flavours of the holidays, so that home-bartenders of any level can serve up these delish cocktails quickly and easily.

instycocktailThe East Apple Cider and Tonic

Batch Recipe:

1 bottle Bombay Sapphire East
13oz Apple cider
3.25oz Lemon juice
4 Bottles of Fever Tree tonic

Directions:

Pour 3.25oz of batch over ice and top with 3-5oz of Fever Tree tonic.

Garnish:

Apple slice and star anise.

Serve:

In Collins glass over ice.

Lastly, to streamline the process even further, ask a couple friends to help out. Whether you need ice or a quick wipe-down of a cabinet, having a bit of help during the power hour goes a long way, baby!