Life offers many occasions to celebrate, commiserate, or get toasty just because. Although the solo drink is sometimes appropriate, in general it's way more fun to drink with friends. We know footing the booze bill for a group can be expensive, so we're here to give you some pointers for doing it up bum-style.

Part One should come as no surprise to anyone following our Inexpensive Entertaining series. Invite people! And ask them to bring stuff, of course. More people means more goodies, so think carefully about how big of a mess you're willing to clean up and then go for it; invite away! It's all about divvying up responsibility. Handles can be split between friends. Therefore, assign wisely. Most people won't go through a handle of Stoli all by themselves. Please note: this is not a challenge.

Part two is getting the right stuff. If you want to have a wine party, two-buck-Chuck is affordable and the connoisseurs behind WTFLA can introduce you to other budget-friendly bottles at one of their free tastings. For a rowdier evening (not to knock the madness that happens with a good wine-drunk), you’ll probably want more of the hard stuff. Liquor can be a bit more pricey, but sales abound at most big grocery stores. The affordable stuff may not be top shelf, but it will likely do the trick once mixed. That's right, don't forget about mixers. OJ, cranberry, tonic, club soda should mitigate that it's-about-to-be-a-hangover taste. Feeling fancy? Tell someone to bring olives or cocktail onions and some toothpicks. Assign snacks. Don't underestimate the need for munchies: chips, pretzels, cheese balls, whatever. If you'd like to provide them, we won't tell if you hit up a 99Cent Only store.

Part Three is about remembering to cover all your bases. Have enough glassware? Goodwill often has sets in decent condition for a couple bucks at best. Wash twice before use. Discount stores like Ross, Fallas, or 99Cent Stores, or big box stores like Target often sell fancy-looking glassware for under 50 cents a piece. Or go to a discount warehouse and grab some faux-crystal plastic drinkware. Red cups are for college, FYI. You could even be eco-friendly and tell everyone to bring their own glass. Make sure to have a few extra in case someone missed that detail. Paper towels (or rags) are important to have on hand in case of spills. Get some.

Part Four is setting the mood. Decorate or don't, but please make sure your bathroom is clean and well-stocked with toilet paper. Then, dim the lights and get a good music mix going. Not sure what to listen to? We'll help you turn it up. We think you can handle that part. Tell your friends to dress up classy-like with thrift store '80s dresses and dinner jackets.

Please don't drink and drive. Never hailed a cab? There's now a smartphone app to help you. Can't afford a taxi? Then sleep over or beg a ride. Now get to drinking!

Salud!