Summer Sips: Easy Mocktail Guide 101

"Sober-curiosity, once a wellness buzzword, is officially a movement" - Vogue

We are seeing some amazing options for summer beverage alternatives that we just had to share with you. As we emerge into summer heat and are able to see community more and more, there is nothing like having a cool beverage on a patio with friends or at the lake with family. Also as a result of the last year, collectively we're experiencing a shift in how we connect with one another including the desire to be more present during our gatherings.

The zero-proof beverage industry has this trend dialed in on their radar and with a lot of amazing options for us to explore. Without a doubt, mocktails and zero-proof beverages are making their way into our kitchens. And with a top-notch approach that isn't just a fancy beverage from a kid's menu. We've had a little time to do some digging and have brought you some beautiful ideas for your next gathering to have you as the mixologist extraordinaire with a spa twist in easy time.

The Faux Booze Options

There are many companies producing spirits at zero-proof for alcohol yet all the flavor you could ask for from the top-shelf at your favorite spot. We've found three options that are making their way to the top of the five star dining industry.

Ghia: A non-alcoholic aperitif with a mediterranean inspiration that will keep you above the influence. Simply mix with sparkling water and enjoy. drinkghia.com

Seedlip Garden 108: A fresh blend of bright garden herbs distilled into beautiful alternative to substitute in for any cocktail you would incorporate gin. seedlipdrinks.com

The Sparkling CBD Mocktail

As you may have already experienced here at Salt, we offer two amazing options for sparkling waters infused with CBD as well as delicious and unique flavors like sweet grass from Dram Apothecary or pink grapefruit from BLNCD Naturals, to name just a few we have available. Although incredibly enjoyable while receiving your salon or spa service, taking a few home to play with is a great option for entertainment. For a full list of Salt's CBD flavor options, stop in or give us a call for easy order pick-up from the cafe. CBD Sparkling Water options $6 at Salt Salon Spa & Cafe

Try a Sour Bliss Mocktail by mixing the Pink Grapefruit BLNCD Naturals CBD Sparkling water with a splash of orange juice, splash of cranberry juice and squeeze of lime in a pint glass with a lime garnish and enjoy. blncdnaturals.com

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The Classic Spa Agua Fresca

Of course we have to count in on the old reliables of agua fresca on a hot summer day. A spa classic go-to from the comfort of your own home, perfect for a spa day at-home. We pulled some of our favorite combinations with an herbal twist to inspire you. Add in a couple of fancy ice cubes from your favorite boutique ice tray for a professional touch.

– Cucumber sliced, lemon rounds and a few lavender springs

– Raspberries, orange rounds and thyme springs

– Frozen watermelon cubes, lime rounds and coarsely torn basil leaves

– Bonus! Hibiscus, a little orange zest and cinnamon brewed in the sun

As a pro tip, spend a little time playing with presentation including freezing edible flowers into your ice cubes which can be easily found at the farmer's market.

The Sparkling Tea

Our choice when it comes to a sparkling tea is the one and only small batch Northstar Kombucha, a locally made in MN company that we have in shop. Flavors include jasmine lemongrass, grapefruit basil and lavender ginger. Made using only tea, fruits, herbs, and spices, our complex botanical flavors create a drinking experience unlike any other. Kombucha is an amazing way to care for your body as gut health is key to support mental health.

$6 at Salt Salon Spa & Cafe

Stop in this weekend for buy 4 get 1 free on all of our Northstar Kombucha and BLNCD Sparkling Waters! We would love to see what you come up with for your mocktail creations. Tag us @saltsalonspacafe on instagram so we can enjoy and share your creations. Cheers!