We recently found ourselves at this awesome spot — Canon Place hotel in Hampton's Bay. Hands down, it’s one of the most atmospheric places I’ve been to on Long Island. They did an incredible renovation, everything’s got this Italian seaside vibe — just perfect. I wanted to sit at the bar, grab an Aperol, and soak in the moment. And then guess what? I order an Aperol, they bring it, and there’s a lemon slice on the edge of the glass! My mind was blown. A lemon, seriously? Aperol comes with an orange. There are clear rules: the right glass, ice, Aperol, an orange slice, and sparkling water. A lemon doesn’t belong anywhere near it.

This is just like in photography: these little things can either make or break the magic. If you don’t pay attention to the details, the whole picture falls apart. Imagine you’re taking a shot, but the background is off, or the subject’s not in the right light — boom, the photo’s ruined. At Danila Photography, we’re obsessed with getting the details right. We’ve been shooting weddings in New York for 20 years, and we know how important every little thing is.

And that Aperol with a lemon? That’s the perfect example of how you can mess everything up if you’re not paying attention to the details.

The Perfect Aperol Spritz Recipe

Want to get it right? Here’s how to make the ultimate Aperol Spritz:

Ingredients:

• 3 oz (90 ml) Prosecco

• 2 oz (60 ml) Aperol

• Splash of soda water

• Ice cubes (fill glass 3/4 full)

• Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Choose the Right Glass: A large, stemmed wine glass is ideal for enhancing aromas and presentation.

2. Add Ice: Fill the glass 3/4 full with ice to keep your drink chilled longer.

3. Pour Prosecco: Start with 3 oz of Prosecco for a bubbly base.

4. Add Aperol: Slowly pour 2 oz of Aperol over the Prosecco to minimize foam.

5. Top with Soda Water: Add a splash for a light fizz.

6. Garnish: Finish with a thin orange slice, either on the rim or inside the glass.

Extra Tips:

• Chill everything beforehand, especially the Prosecco.

• Always pour Prosecco first to preserve the bubbles.

• Sip traditionally or add a stylish straw for a fun touch.

Serve with friends, enjoy during golden hour, and let the perfect Aperol Spritz elevate your moment. Just remember: never, ever substitute the orange for a lemon.