Cocktail Time

We asked three experts for ideas and tips for turning a drinks table into the star attraction at your next party.

- Candice Botha

Floral FANTASY

For this laid-back tropical drinks setup on her veranda, Malindi Widlake of vegetarian blog Saltfreesaffa started with a gorgeous floral arrangement of anthuriums, proteas, fan palms, bromeliads, croton leaves and purple cordyline. “Everything else is an extension of the flowers,” she says.

To pick up the shade of the proteas, Malindi chose copper accessories and echoed the colours in a fresh fruit platter. “Cocktails are key for any party. These ones were created to complement the flowers. Their tropical flavours combined with a powerful fruit hit get everyone in a summer mood.”

Malindi advises arranging the drinks and garnishes so that guests can create their own cocktails with ease. “Include lots of fresh tropical fruit, because this takes any drink to the next level. I’m all about offering fewer options but making sure that they are spectacular.”