Pitcher Drink

Complete the tropical scene by garnishing these pink drinks with paper umbrellas or (unsprayed) orchids.

Let guests mix their own Bellinis — it's a great ice-breaker, and allows everyone to custom-blend their drinks.

The wine and OJ supply antioxidants. (Amounts for a pitcher, about 20 drinks for 8 guests, are in parentheses.)

Four fresh fruits bring a sunny taste of the tropics to your table. If you want to make this a virgin drink, simply omit the rum and add an extra cup of tangerine juice.

Healthy bonus: Antioxidants from tea, 5 calories per glass

Editor's note: This recipe is from Brini Maxwell's Guide to Gracious Living. For Maxwell's tips on throwing a summer pool party, click here. This simple, refreshing drink really is easy to make and much better than a mix. By the way, these measurements are approximate. Adjust the recipe to your own taste, whether that's on the sweet or the tart end of the spectrum. You can also perk this up for your drinking friends with a dash of Bacardi Limon.

A splash of vodka or gin transforms this lively punch into a festive cocktail.

Everyone seems to have a preference when it comes to Bloody Marys — whether it's the brand of tomato juice or how much celery salt and Tabasco to use. We found this recipe to be nicely balanced, though by all means add or subtract to your liking. We also discovered that it's worth buying new horseradish: If the jar in your refrigerator looks brownish or dry, it has been in there too long and will taste very bitter.