Throw the perfect holiday party at home with Fever-Tree Espresso Martini Mix

This season, we’re leaving the stress behind to celebrate with confidence and ease
fever tree espresso martini
Photo courtesy of Fever-Tree
Written by Colleen Hamilton for Time Out in partnership with Fever-Tree
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Fall has arrived, which means it’s time to trade in pool parties and picnics for cozy indoor celebrations. Maybe you want to host a Friendsgiving party or invite your co-workers over to toast a year of hard work. But picture this: instead of worrying about grocery shopping or presents, this year can be about hosting with luxury and ease. Read on to learn how to throw an unforgettable, stress-free holiday party that feels like visiting a five-star ski lodge.

A great party begins the moment your guests walk through the door, and nothing says celebration quite like having a delicious espresso martini waiting as they come in from the cold. We love Fever-Tree’s Espresso Martini Mix, a blend of Robusta and Arabica coffee beans sourced from Bali with warm hints of vanilla and chocolate. The velvety texture, combined with the bitter-sweet balance of the mix, creates a moment of decadence in a (preferably chilled) glass. Plus, all you need is two ingredients. But don’t forget the three coffee beans as a garnish on top, which are supposed to represent health, wealth and happiness. What more could you want to manifest during a great holiday party?

In addition to the cocktails, a truly luxurious celebration is about making your guests feel at home.

From delicious food and music that sets the tone to playful games and decor, we’ve crafted the ultimate guide to help you host a simple yet sumptuous holiday celebration.

The star of the show

All you have to do is shake the mix along with your spirit of choice, from vodka for a classic espresso martini, or mix it up with tequila or rum for an exciting twist and of course let’s not forget non-alcoholic options like Seedlip, something to appeal to all of your guests.  Our festive take features tequila, for a twist on this classic in under five minutes. This drink will warm your guests up and get everyone into the holiday spirit!

The Perfect Serve with Fever-Tree Espresso Martini Mix

Ingredients

  • 1.5 fl oz. of your favorite vodka or create a twist on the classic with tequila  
  • 2 fl oz. of Espresso Martini mix
  • Coffee beans (for garnish)

Steps

  • Add vodka or tequila (your choice) to the shaker
  • Add Fever-Tree Espresso Martini Mix to the shaker
  • Fill the shaker 3/4 full with cubed ice.
  • Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to create the perfect crema
  • Pour into a cocktail coupe and garnish with three coffee beans
  • Enjoy!

Decor

Before your guests arrive, set the scene. Seasonal touches like colorful pumpkins, autumn foliage, and hanging mistletoe can add a fun moment of nature to the space. Plus, candles are a must—they add a glow that instantly warms up a room. And don’t forget to create a cozy nook where your guests can take photos! We love grabbing a few disposable cameras and setting them around the room so that everyone can have momentos of the evening long after they’ve piled into their Uber home.

Food

The espresso martini sets the tone, but no holiday celebration is complete without something to nibble on. As your guests arrive, have a simple charcuterie spread ready to go. To balance the cocktail, we recommend a selection of creamy, salty cheeses like brie and manchego along with nuts, dried fruits and cured meats for texture. If your guests are coming with a larger appetite, it can be easiest to order something delicious from a nearby, favorite restaurant. There’s nothing better than the smell of ribs or pasta to add to the overall holiday ambiance.

Pro tip: Have a few extra snacks (or a local pizza place on speed dial!) ready for the end of the night when people are playing games, lounging and not quite ready to leave. 

Music

Your music should boost the energy and add a cozy feeling to the gathering without overwhelming the conversation.  While we love the holiday classics—Mariah Carey, anyone?—don’t feel boxed in. Jazz music can add to the overall relaxed yet luxurious feel. Picture: red decorations on a Christmas tree, an ice-cold martini glass, and the sounds of a shimmering golden saxophone in the background. Combine this with some lo-fi music and classic hits (deep down everyone wants to dance a little bit!) to keep things mellow but upbeat throughout the night.

Party Favors

Along with the disposable cameras, there’s no better surprise than giving your friends and family a little gift as the party comes to a close. You can even make small kits with your signature cocktail of the night! Include a sample of the Fever-Tree’s Espresso Martini Mix, a spirit and a garnish, packed into a cute take-home box with instructions. Remember, the holidays are a time to rest, celebrate, and luxuriate in the community around you—not to stress out. You should leave the evening feeling as happy and relaxed as your guests.

Activities

Keep the party lively by introducing a fun activity, especially if it’s a group of people that hasn’t met before. You can never go wrong with a pre-planned gift exchange, card games or holiday trivia. If you’re planning on a sit-down dinner, make sure to have some conversation starters in your back pocket. A few of our favorites: What’s your dream vacation destination? What’s the best cocktail you’ve had recently (Fever-Tree included!)? What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the New Year?

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