​Ah, ice-cream. Whether cooling down in summer, or drawing inspiration from the weather in winter; you really can't go wrong with this sweet treat. Which begs the question... wouldn't it make the perfect dessert at your next special occasion?

​From a bachelorette to a birthday party, adults and children alike will go wild when given the chance to create their own cones.

Ready to make this a sweet reality? Find our all time favourite DIY ice cream bar ideas below.

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Related: Glorious Food Bar Ideas
Related: DIY Drink Stations
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I’ve been to several hens’ parties over the years. I’ve wrapped brides to be up in makeshift toilet roll dresses, danced to essential party playlists and drunk bubbles in celebration.
But the last few times I’ve swapped bubbles for a mocktail.

Has it made the party feel flat? Nope, not at all.
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Not drinking at a hen’s party may not be everyone’s cup of tea (or bubbles in this case). But offering non-alcoholic options to your guests creates an inclusive environment.

Cutting down on alcohol, doesn’t mean cutting down on fun!
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Related: Cocktails & Mocktails
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​Increasing numbers of people are choosing to drink less or drink more mindfully. They’re more aware of their alcohol consumption. Rather than sitting in on every round, they’re choosing to sit out.
 
According to an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) triennial survey, the number of people who have quit drinking rose from 1.5 million to 1.9 million between 2016 and 2019.
 
The main reasons?
 
People are choosing to avoid the roaring hangover and accompanying hangxiety that follows a night of drinking.They’re choosing to put their mental and physical health first.  

​​Moderating alcohol or swapping drinks for non-alcoholic versions is like hiring agreathealth coach, but without the cost. The rewards are reaped both inside and out. And people are embracing this.
 
Improved skin, improved energy levels, better sleep, reduced anxiety and a slimmer waistline. What’s not to like? Then there’s the fact that a reduction in alcohol lowers the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease and stroke.

There are so many non-alcoholic alternatives available, but here are my top picks to get your party started:


THOMSON & SCOTT NOUGHTY
Our best-selling bottle, and one of the closest in taste, mouthfeel and aroma to an excellent French Champagne. Made from Chardonnay grapes, this sparkling wine is pale in colour with an extra dry, crisp taste. ​

Gluten free | Refined sugar free | Dairy free | Vegan friendly
Makes 2 litres (4 pints)

This is such a pretty punch and a real show stopper thanks to the hibiscus (rosella) flowers that magically open up once they are added to the liquid. See below to learn how to make this delicious hibiscus punch for your upcoming event.
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Related: Drink Station Ideas
Related: Hen Party Cocktails & Mocktails

Not only is this Hibiscus Punch pretty, but with the option to avoid adding any refined sugar, it's pretty healthy as well.

I use sweet as fibre syrup in the punch for sweetness which is a prebiotic dietary fibre that is sugar-free yet tastes like candy floss!

Fibre syrup is a natural product similar to maple syrup in texture and is a great sugar and syrup alternative for anyone wanting to limit sugar in their diet. It is low in calories, good for gut health, and won't spike blood gluscose making it a great addition to a sugar-free diet.

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INGREDIENTS
1.5 litres (3 pints) warm water
8 hibiscus flower tea bags
Small handful of fresh mint leaves + extra for serving
100ml (3.5 oz) sweet as fibre syrup
250ml (8 1/2 oz) freshly squeeze orange juice, pulp free and chilled
250ml (8 1/2 oz) naturally sweetened lemonade, chilled
6-8 hibiscus flowers
Ice to serve



METHOD
Firstly brew the tea by heating the water in a pot with the tea bags, mint leaves and fibre syrup. Allow the water to come to the boil and then turn the heat off. Allow the tea and flavours to steep in the water for 30 minutes.

Remove the tea bags and mint, and then chill the hibiscus tea until cold.

When ready to serve your punch, mix the chilled tea with the orange juice and lemonade in a punch bowl or drinks fountain. Add the hibiscus flowers, a handful of ice and a few mint leaves to float on top.

​Taste the punch for flavour, adding more lemonade or orange juice to taste.

Bridget Foliaki-Davis is a multi award winning chef and cookbook author having won 5 World Gourmand Cookbook awards including best breakfast cookbook that was named by UNESCO as one of the most influential cookbooks in the world for the last 25 years.

As a reformed unhealthy and overweight chef, Bridget now creates flavour-first delicious recipes that have no sugar, gluten or dairy, that are gut friendly and anti-inflammatory and have the ability to inspire, heal and transform people's lives.

Bridget has cooked all over the world and worked with famous chefs like Marco Pierre White and Tetsuya Wakuda, for Kings and Queens, Oprah, Jacinda Arden and has worked as a VIP chef for tech giants Google and Lenovo.

Your hen's party is meant to leave a lasting memory (and impression), but that doesn't mean it has to leave a lasting impact on the planet.

Whether you're hosting a dinner, a garden party or a picnic, food and drink products are sure to feature. Sadly, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted. Food and drinks are also one of the main sources of plastic waste each year.

Luckily, your hen's night can steer clear of these stats with some sustainable practices. So, what are some sustainable ways to serve food and drink at your event - from start to finish?

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)

Related: Eco Party 'How To'
​Related: Eco-Friendly Decorations

When we think party hosting, we think lots of plastic cups, straws and plates. These disposables end up in landfills where they take hundreds of years to decompose.

Reusable drink and food ware is a great way to not only save plastic, but level-up your party's look and your guests' experience.



STRAWS
No matter what drinks you're serving and how, you'll want to have straws. But instead of plastic straws, choose the reusable kind. This will allow you to add a pop of colour and luxury to your drinks. Reusable rose gold straws are a top pick for creating photo-worthy drinks.

WATER STATIONS
Rather than supplying bottled water, set up drink stations; made up of reusable glasses, reusable bottles and pitches of water. If you would like to offer a variety of beverages, pitches of mocktails, cocktails or even juices can be set up on the table as well.

Related: DIY Drink Stations



​REUSABLE CUPS & CUTLERY

​These are perfect for outdoor entertaining as they're spill proof and easy to carry around. The Cheeki reusable wine tumblers are great as they keep drinks cooler for longer too. You'll find you use these again and again after your party - they work for kids, desserts and any outdoor family events you'll host or attend in the future.

We all know that plastic cutlery is terrible for our planet, but what are your other options when hosting? Reusable bamboo cutlery sets are a great option for your party guests. If your event allows it, you can also use regular reusable cutlery to save on plastic and waste.
​​
​Handy Tip:
Don't have enough reusable drinkware on hand? Encourage guests to bring their own reusable bottles or glasses to be used throughout the celebration.

​DISPOSABLE OPTIONS
Sometimes you just need to use a disposable option - we get it. But this doesn't mean you have to go for plastic.

If you need single use plates and bowls, try looking for bamboo, compostable and/or biodegradable options. Disposable bamboo food and drinkware also looks nicer than its white plastic counterparts, so win-win.

​If you don't want to use metal straws, then opt for paper. Again, paper straws are more stylish than plastic and you can pick a colour scheme that suits your party.
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​REUSABLE FOOD BOXES

If you're having an outdoorsy hen-do, you could prepare delicious bento boxes for all of your guests and create a favour bag with their box, wine tumbler, straw and reusable cutlery travel set.
​

We're all guilty of rushing out to buy new before stopping to take stock of what we already own.

You or someone you know probably already owns an amazing table cloth or runner, or even a dinner party crockery set you could use.

If not, then why not try second-hand first?

Op shops are a great place to find things like tablecloths, centrepieces, place mats and anything else you might like to use to add personality to your party. You can even find amazing drink and food ware at op shops that you wouldn't find new in the shops today.

Shopping second-hand, borrowing or using what you own is a great way to reduce consumption and promote a more circular economy.

Related: Eco Friendly Decorations

Okay, so what about the food you're serving?

If you can, shop local and small, as this will automatically mean you're supporting the local economy. A farmers' market, and fresh fruits and vegetables in general, is a great option. Shopping fresh and at the local market will mean you use less plastic packaging and in turn create less packaging waste.

Also be mindful to not buy too much food. This is a common problem for any party host - the just-in-case mentality - is what sees so much food waste at the end of the event.

​Related: Grazing Platter DIY

If you've got leftovers, package them up in reusable containers (like stainless steel bento boxes) and give them to your guests. Yep, your delicious food doubles as a party favour!

You could also make up boxes for your neighbours.

If there are any leftover ingredients and sealed food items, you can donate them to a local shelter or charity.

Just as important as how you serve your food is how you dispose of any scraps or waste. There are plenty of ways you can keep your waste and scraps out of landfill.

Firstly, compost. If you have a compost at home or a local compost, drop off any food scraps there as this will ensure they get turned into healthy soil for future plants.

Be sure to dispose of any compostable or biodegradable items in the right way (read the instructions) as they won't decompose in landfill.

And be sure to rinse out your recyclables before tossing in the recycling bin.

No matter what sort of hen's party you're planning or the food you'll be serving, there are plenty of ways to make it as sustainable as possible. So you can party on and​ protect the planet!

ALL-NATURAL, VEGAN & ORGANIC ECOMMERCE STORE
Aida Rejzovic is the proud founder of Sassy Organics - an all-natural, vegan and organic eCommerce store, committed to helping others adopt a healthier and more considered lifestyle. After battling some serious health issues, Aida discovered the power of organic living. She started Sassy Organics to share the benefits with others and make shopping natural, eco and organic products effortless.

Email: [email protected]

Fun fact - I'm not the best cook going around. And the thought of catering for a large group of people, quite frankly, scares me! BUT then I came across these wonderful recipes. Easy to whip up, delish and, best of all, perfect for a range of occasions; this list of bridal shower food ideas is guaranteed to take the stress out of appetizers! So grab yourself a snack (trust me, the pictures alone will get your stomach a-rumbling) and get started on your bridal shower food menu ideas!

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)
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Related: Food Bar Ideas
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Ah cocktails! I really do love them. Sweet, fun, colourful, delicious; the mere thought of sipping on a cold, mixed beverage brings back memories of summer parties, gorgeous dinners, fancy balls and special occasions. Whether you're planning a sophisticated soiree or a backyard bash, this incredible list of hen party cocktails (and mocktails) is your secret weapon to a drink station that EVERYONE will want a piece of!


Related: Drink Stations for Your Hen Weekend
Related: Bridal Shower Appetizer Ideas

I know your thirst for (tasty cocktail recipe) knowledge is growing by the second. But this is important - trust me! You see, cocktails are more than just a delicious addition to your special occasion. They can also be part of the overall theme, a special personalised touch for your guest of honour and so much more! To learn how to incorporate these awesome bevvies into your event in the best way possible, see below:

​
DIY OR PROFESSIONALLY MIXED?
DIY cocktail mixing stations can be a fun and interactive way for guests to quench their thirst. To set up, place recipes, spirits, mixers, drink toppers and fresh fruit/other garnishes on a table. Those in need of a refreshment can then help themselves, letting their creativity run wild! Alternatively, professional bar staff can be brought in to work their magic (they may even teach you a few cheeky mixing tricks whilst they're at it).

Handy Tip:
Cocktail mixing can be a great way to get the hen party started. Whether it's DIY (most delicious cocktail, as awarded by the bride, wins) or a mixology class with a professional - everyone is bound to enjoy making and, more importantly, downing their wicked creations.

​

THEME IT​
Have a theme for your celebration? Why not serve a cocktail (or two) that fit in seamlessly with the look/feel you're going for?

For example, if your theme is based on particular colours, such as blue, you might decide to offer blue lagoon cocktails. A pink event might feature a cotton candy champagne cocktail. On the other hand, a James Bond themed celebration would suit martinis (shaken, not stirred!); and a Halloween themed Hens Party is best paired with more horrifying options (such as Witches Brew or Midnight Fog). Pina coladas or classic margaritas would compliment a summer hen party, whereas a winter soiree pairs well with mulled wine. 

By getting creative, you can find the perfect cocktail for any theme!

Related: 90+ Bachelorette Party Theme Ideas



MAKE IT PERSONAL​
Rather than serving a range of different drinks, why not select one or two 'signature' cocktails for the affair.

For example, serve your best friend's favourite cocktail - the one she always goes for on a night out! This simple touch will show just how well you know the bride-to-be and just how much you want to make the day special for her.

The other option is creating a cocktail especially for the event itself. Give it a name and serve it all night long -just be sure to taste test prior to the big day (you want this to be a memorable refreshment... but for the right reasons!).

Related: Thoughtful Hen Party Ideas

​APPLE OF MY RYE
RECIPE & IMAGE PROVIDED BY: 'MOBIUS DISTILLERY CO.'
Based on a Manhattan, this basic, stirred cocktail not only tastes amazing, but also looks the part (especially when served in a nice glass with a garnish)!

To make it easier for you to whip up a batch for a crowd, the team at Mobius Distillery Co have used 'parts' rather than 'mls' so that you can easily scale up the recipe using the same ratios. See below for ingredients and method:


Ingredients:
1 Part Moreau Apple Pie Liqueur
1 Part Sweet Vermouth
2 Parts Rye Whiskey
1 Dash Orange bitters

​
Method:
Combine ingredients in mixing glass. Add ice cubes, then stir well.
Strain into a chilled stemmed glass and enjoy!

APPLE PIE ICE-CREAM FLOAT
RECIPE & IMAGE PROVIDED BY:​ 'MOBIUS DISTILLERY CO.'
If it's got ice-cream in it, I'm keen. Incredibly easy to create and OH SO delicious, the Apple Pie Ice Cream Float is going to be a quick favourite of party goers! Follow the simple instructions below and enjoy:
​
​
Ingredients:
Moreau Apple Pie Liqueur
Thick, creamy ice-cream


Method:
Drizzle Moreau over ice-cream to taste.
​Add pieces of biscuit to garnish and dig in!

GREY GOOSE ESPRESSO MARTINI
RECIPE & IMAGE PROVIDED BY: GREY GOOSE VODKA
​​Espresso Martini - a staple at many a hen's night! Quick and super easy to whip up, this recipe is bound to be a favourite with party goers. See below for ingredients and method.
​

Ingredients:
50ml Grey Goose Vodka
30ml Espresso
20ml Coffee Liqueur
Pinch of salt
​3 Coffee beans to garnish


Method:
Add Grey Goose Vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur to a cocktail shaker.
​Shake briskly and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with three coffee beans and enjoy!

MALFY GIN SOUR
RECIPE & IMAGE PROVIDED BY: VESPER BAR & BISTRO
Hen's parties are all about gathering your best friends and family for a celebration of romantic love, along with the sweet and sour moments of life... just like the Malfy Gin Sour!


Ingredients (Makes 2):
45ml Malfy Sicilian blood orange gin
300ml Egg white
15ml Lime juice
5ml Muscovado syrup
Garnish: orange peel

​
Method:
Combine ingredients in a shaker (can be dry shaken or wet shaken), and then double strain into a coupette, Nick&Nora or coupe glass. Garnish with an orange peel or with a few drops of orange bitter.

The blood orange gin adds a touch of sweetness whilst simultaneously letting the aromatic gin botanicals shine through. Natural sweetness can be counterbalanced by adding a touch of fresh lemon juice.

If reading through these cocktail recipes has you feeling a bit overwhelmed, the team at Honeysuckle Distillery have you covered! Starting with a delicious, pre-mixed base - their bevvies can be enjoyed as is OR enhanced with one or two simple steps; making them a hassle free way to celebrate in style! See below for Honeysuckle Distillery's favourite flavour enhancing tips.

PARADISE GIN SPRITZ
The Paradise Gin Spritz combines the powerful sweet-sour flavour of blood orange with warming cinnamon to create a drink you won't want to put down. The flavours are twisted with gin and soda for a refreshing experience.

To bring out the blood orange, simply add a slice of citrus to your glass. If you're more swayed by the cinnamon, briefly flame a stick of cinnamon bark to release the flavour and nestle in your drink.

SPLENDID GIN CITRUS
​There's nothing quite like yuzu - an exotic fruit which is much sought-after by those in the know. This drink is an adventure waiting to be explored.

Slice up some fresh citrus fruits and gently squeeze over ice in a tall glass. For an added effect, cut one more slice and create a small slit from one edge to the centre to sit on the glass rim.

For an even easier option, just serve over ice with a slide of ginger to spice up the yuzu.

TROPICAL VODKA CRUSH
Mango and coconut are a match made in paradise, so it made perfect sense for us to use this as a base for our Tropical Vodka Crush Spritz. We have blended these two lovebirds with vodka, soda and natural flavours to create an unforgettable drink.

To enhance the mango flavour, drizzle in a dash of mango puree and compliment it with a lime wedge. Alternatively, a scoop of passionfruit is always a delight, or turn things up a notch with a dash of white rum.

​RECIPES & IMAGES PROVIDED BY: 'HONEYSUCKLE DISTILLERY'

​ROSE LEMONADE MOCKTAIL
RECIPE & IMAGE PROVIDED BY: NAT OF 'THE MINDFUL MOCKTAIL'
​If it's a mocktail you're after, The Mindful Mocktail's Rose Lemonade is bound to impress! Easy and fast to make, this pretty drink is perfect for a crowd (just increase the quantities below); and with it's pink colouring looks absolutely stunning in a pitcher (making it the perfect choice for hen parties and bridal showers alike!).
​

Ingredients (Makes 2):
100 ml water
1/2 tbsp Stevia (or your choice of sweetener)
1/3 cup edible dried rose petals
6 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Sparkling water

​
Method:
Add water and sweetener to a small saucepan and dissolve over medium-high heat. If the water steams that's ok, just don't let it boil. 

Turn heat to low, add rose petals and stir. Leave on low stirring occasionally until the colours fade from the petals – it will only take a few minutes. Strain and cool. This is your rose syrup.

Now place 2 tablespoons rose syrup and 3 tablespoons lemon juice into each glass. Add ice if you wish, and top with sparkling water. Adjust sweetness by adding a little more Stevia if desired.


Related: Non Alcoholic Drinks for Girls' Night

Whether you go for a simple cocktail recipe, something a bit more complex, or even an edible alcoholic treat (hello, Apple Pie Ice Cream Float!), your party pals are going to remember the thought and effort that went into ensuring their thirst was quenched. So why not meet up with the bridesmaids, or even the bride-to-be herself, and have a cheeky 'practice' day - where you can not only decide on what will make up your hen party cocktail menu, but you can also learn how to nail the recipe (because practice makes perfect after all, am I right?!).

If you have a hen party cocktail recipe (or mocktail recipe) that you would like to share, please comment below or send me an email ([email protected]).

Happy mixing!

Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
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