EVEN THE MOST consummate host can get flustered when entertaining, so getting a head start can take the pressure off and let you relax with your friends. Nobody expects to go to a friend’s house and order their meal à la carte, but they might expect to be able to request any drink they fancy if you have a well-stocked bar. Having a designated welcome cocktail that you know you can sling out easily will ensure everybody has a drink in their hands within a few moments of arriving. Then, having a little menu written up can help guide guests towards drinks you’ve prepared for, and it makes a nice keepsake for your event.

Above all, remember to have fun! Assuming your guests aren’t paying – or just like to wind you up – they’re not going to mind if you run out of an ingredient and have to switch to something else, if your twists are a little wonky, or if they have to wait a few minutes while you craft them a new creative concoction. They’ll remember good times with friends and delicious drinks.