Don't get me wrong. I am a big fan of getting cocktails in the hands of party goes as soon as possible...  but sometimes (especially after sitting through an outdoor wedding ceremony in the mid-Atlantic in July) I see the value of offering a fun, non-alcoholic beverage (that is not soda) to refresh and hydrate before the partying begins.
It can be as simple as a pretty pitcher of water with thinly sliced cucumbers floating in it.  Add an over sized mason jar of lemonade surrounded by smaller jars of citrus segments, mint sprigs and lavender flowers and you have a great looking- much appreciated beverage station that is very low cost.

You can always step it up by displaying several flavors and garnishes.
Later in the party, add a chilled bottle of vodka... and everyone is happy!

Here are some great "Lemonade Stand" ideas:

Start with a really good lemonade:


Infusions:
Pineapple- Mint: Bring pineapple juice to a boil.  Simmer until the juice has been reduced by half. Chill. Add to lemonade and garnish with fresh mint.
Thyme: Combine several fresh thyme sprigs with simple syrup and bring to a boil.  Remove from the heat and let sit for 15ish minutes. Strain and chill.  Add to lemonade.  This also works really well with rosemary.
Ginger- Lime:  I am a sucker for anything with ginger in it.. this is really wonderful!!  Peel fresh ginger. Grate. Wrap in cheesecloth and squeeze over a bowl to release the juice. Add the ginger juice to your lemonade with a touch of honey. Squeeze 1/2 lime into the pitcher and garnish with  lime wheels.

Sparkling Sodas:
These are really simple, and unbelievably delicious and refreshing.
Add any of the Stirrings mixers to club soda.  1:1.  Serve over ice and garnish.
My favorites are:
Watermelon, Blood Orange, Chocolate Peppermint, Peach, Pomegranate, Mojito and Wild Blueberry.

Don't forget to label everything so guests know what they are drinking!