There are certain cocktails that are just more party-appropriate than others. As a scotch drinker, I know that perhaps my drink of choice is a bit too "moody" for a festive affair. Same goes for the opposite end of the spectrum: if you order a ridiculous birthday cake flavored concoction at a wedding, some might think you were having a 13 Going on 30 moment. But a martini is that perfect drink right down the middle of both extremes-plenty of alcohol to keep us from being the bitter bridesmaid, and plenty of respectability in the process (because I dare anyone to find you less than sophisticated when you have one of these bad boys in hand).

A traditional martini is made with gin, but a modern martini is typically vodka. My favorite is a smoky martini (below) which is a gin martini with just a splash of scotch. It tastes like evil (side note: evil is delicious), so limit these to two. You'll thank me later.

But plenty of the new martini cocktails are fruit-flavored, for those who prefer to walk on the sweeter side. This apple martini (above) is a fabulous alternative to the toxic green ones you might find at happy hour.

These blueberry lemon (above) and peach lemonade (below) cocktails would be a refreshing touch for a summer wedding.

Want cocktails at brunch? These orange (above), lime (below), and persimmon (second below) are great alternatives to the traditional vodka crans and screwdrivers.

Recipes: Gin Martini// Vodka Martini// Cuban Martini// Blue Smoke Martini// Apple Thyme Martini// Blueberry Lemon Martini// Peach Lemonade Martini// Breakfast Martini// Key Lime Martini// Persimmon Martini