Boozing on a Budget

If you love to throw cocktail parties but can't bear the hangovers (those cringe-worthy credit card bills hanging over your head), then it's time for a little change to help you save a little change.

Live it Up While Losing the Labels
Instead of high-end champagne, choose prosecco, a dry sparkling white wine that costs anywhere from $7-15 a bottle and looks just as gorgeous when served in a flute. To make it extra festive, add a fresh strawberry (or whichever berry's in season) to each glass. Now that's economical elegance.

Four-liter jugs of table wine are fruity, simple and delish-- ideal for a laid-back party with friends. Best of all, they sell for under $10 at most liquor stores. Rosé, Pinot Grigio and Merlot are always hits.

Pack a Punch and Save a Few Pennies
Bartender Charles Nemeth from NYC's celebrity hotspot Cipriani Downtown suggests making one drink, such as a rum punch. Prep it before hand in a large bowl and pour over icy glasses when your friends arrive. Mix 2 cups dark rum with 1 cup light rum, add lemon, orange and pineapple juices and a splash of grenadine. You're good to go!

Sharing is Caring (Even for Adults)
Make it a group effort: have each guest or couple bring a different bottle. That way, everyone can sample. And you won't be burdened with the big booze bill.

Do Yourself a Favor: Don't Buy Them
If you're really into décor and don't want to spend a lot, make your own cocktail coasters. You can get a pack of 6 cork coasters at a craft store for under $3. Cut out funny photos of friends as well as some pictures and words from magazines. Glue them onto your blank coaster. Then, in a well-ventilated area (preferably outside) spray the coaster with acrylic (about $4 for an 11 oz. can) and let it dry. A nice favor for guests that doesn't cost much to make.

No Need for High Class Glass
It's unnecessary to spend a fortune on glassware if you don't already have a set. Bargain and dollar stores carry some chic and unique looking goblets, champagne flutes and martini glasses for under $2 each. So, it won't really matter if they shatter.

Everyone Likes a Virgin Every Now and Then
Believe it or not, you can impress booze-lovers with non-alcoholic drinks, too. Better yet, you'll save money while doing it. Italian sodas are a great option. Mix naturally flavored seltzers (e.g. vanilla, mandarin orange, lemon lime) with Italian syrups and garnish with fresh mint and frozen berries. Seltzer costs about $.89 a liter and the syrups range from $3-15.

You know the drill: keep it simple and elegant. As always, drink responsibly, and have a blast.

— Written by Danielle Travali

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