Run the lemon wedge around the outer rim of a highball or Collins glass to moisten. Dip the rim into the salt mixture and rotate so salt adheres evenly. Set the glass aside.

Mix Cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass halfway with ice.

Add vodka (2 oz), tomato juice (6 oz), fresh lemon juice (0.5 oz), Worcestershire sauce (0.5 tsp), prepared horseradish (0.5 tsp), hot sauce (2 dashes), celery salt (0.25 tsp), smoked paprika (0.125 tsp), and 6 twists of freshly ground black pepper to the shaker.

Gently roll or stir the mixture for 10–15 seconds. Do not vigorously shake; the goal is to chill and slightly dilute while preserving the tomato juice texture.

Taste and adjust seasoning: add another dash of hot sauce for heat, an extra 0.25 tsp Worcestershire for depth, or 0.25–0.5 tsp sugar if the tomato juice tastes too acidic. If adjusting, stir again briefly with ice.

Assemble & Garnish

Fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice (large cubes).

Strain the mixed Bloody Mary over the ice into the prepared glass.

Garnish by placing the celery stalk flush against the inside of the glass, then skewer the green olive and cherry tomato (and any optional items like a pickled green bean, small cooked shrimp, or crisp bacon) on the cocktail pick and rest it across the glass. Optionally squeeze the reserved lemon wedge over the drink and drop it in.

Serve immediately with a straw and a small spoon for heavier garnishes if used.