Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and stir over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Raise heat and simmer the mixture for about 5-6 minutes or until the cranberries start to split. Once most have split remove the pan from the heat and cover with a lid. Let sit for 2 hours for the flavors to infuse. After the two hours strain the mixture into a jar using a mesh strainer, pressing the mixture against the strainer to extract all of the flavor. Keep in a resealable container and chill completely until ready to use.

Dip the rim of the glasses in a shallow bowl of simple syrup and then immediately into a shallow bowl of green sanding sugar. Let dry completely. Once dry fill the glasses with ice. In a cocktail shaker with ice add 4 tablespoon of the spiced cranberry simple syrup, the tequila, orange liqueur, cranberry and lime juice. Cover and shake well then strain into the 4 glasses. Taste and add more simple syrup if desired. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and sugared cranberry skewers.