You’re hosting a holiday party! The date is set. Invites are sent. Time to prep, starting with the most important details. What to wear? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED, in satin, sequins, and chiffon. Beer and wine are solid standbys, but cocktails can really get the festivities going.

So we asked our pals Talmadge Lowe and Christopher Harris of HI-LO LIQUOR to concoct a couple of jolly recipes, just for you. These guys are mixed drink masters, and their Culver City convenience store—right around the corner from Velvet HQ—is a one-stop wonderland of eclectic essentials for boozy connoisseurs, casual drinkers, and everyone in between. (Shopping for host/ess gifts has never been easier than it is here. Beloved local brands like Beechwood Brewery and Mulholland Distillers? Milk and eggs for nog? Japanese whisky? Artisan ice cream? Yes, they stock it all, with the know-how to help out if you’re not sure where to start.)

With a few key additions to your bar cart, you’ll be shaking and stirring like a pro in no time.

Cheers!

The Bramble
Grandma’s classic cobbler—now slightly tipsy and oh-so-sippable. Super fresh.
1.5 oz gin
.75 oz lemon juice
.50 oz simple syrup
.75 oz creme de mure

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker over ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a cocktail coupe and enjoy with family.
Garnish with a lemon wheel and a blackberry.

Black Walnut Old Fashioned
A perfect winter warmer with a nutty twist. Make a few for your favorite friends.
2 oz Bourbon
3/4 oz Simple Syrup
3 dash Black Walnut Bitters

Combine all ingredients, including the bitters, in a mixing glass over ice and stir for a good 45 seconds. Strain into an old-fashioned glass over a single large “king” ice cube.
Garnish with an orange peel.

Stock up at Hi-Lo Liquor, 8582 Washington Boulevard, Culver City.