Effortless Entertaining: Cocktails Al Fresco

Hello!  Erin from Fig + Cotton here with another installment of Effortless Entertaining.  With the weather finally taking a turn for the better, entertaining out on the patio is a must.  I love nothing more than a casual cocktail party with a signature cocktail, no-fuss florals (succulents are perfect here.), a great appetizer menu, and comfy party dress.  Here are my suggestions for your next al fresco cocktail party:

1 /  the cocktail.  For this fete, I chose a paloma.  Yes, I couldn't resist -- a paloma for Paloma -- but, honestly, this is one of my spring and summer go-to cocktails.

The Paloma (recipe found here)
1 1/2 shots of good quality blanco tequila
juice of half a ruby grape fruit
1/2 shot of agave syrup or sugar syrup
about 75ml club soda
a squirt of fresh lime juice

Instructions
Mix the grapefruit juice, tequila and sugar syrup until well mixed.  Pour over a tall glass filled with ice and top up with soda water and a squeeze of lime.

2  /  a perfect menu.  For this cocktail party menu, there is just enough variety here so 1) no one goes hungry,  and 2) you don't need to keep everything warm.  You will certainly get the most out of your get together if you can cook and plate most of your apps before guests arrive.

3  /  the dress.  I think the very best outfit for an outdoor cocktail soiree is a flowy, comfy, maxi caftan...with flats.  This orange and white number is just sublime in my book.

4  /  diy centerpieces.  Succulents are definitely overlooked as a go-to centerpiece for most hostesses.  However, many times the muted tones and interesting shapes can make a truly elegant and modern statement.  I love this succulent  DIY from Spray Paint & Chardonnay.

5  /  fun paper goods.  Minted is definitely my first stop when searching for the perfect paper goods for all of my gatherings.  I love their relatively new party decor; the options are truly endless.

6  / mood lighting.  Lighting can change the entire mood of a party.  Soft candle light or strings of cafe lights provide the perfect backdrop for fun conversations.

Pair all of this with an eclectic guest list and your favorite Pandora station, and you have an effortless cocktail party...right on your back patio!