Choose Signature Cocktails That Reflect Your Tastes
Picking signature wedding drinks is a great way to add a personalized touch right from the start. If you're struggling to come up with ideas, narrow things down by thinking about what you like to drink when you're out with friends. If you tend towards a simple drink, such as a gin and tonic, consider a slightly more elaborate type of gin-based drink, such as a sparkling grapefruit cocktail. If you typically stay away from cocktails, consider a wine-based version, such as a custom sangria. It is usually a good idea to make sure that one of your signature drinks is relatively low in alcohol content to help your guests pace themselves.
Get Creative With Glassware
Unique wedding ideas often involve bucking tradition, and that's equally true when it comes to your cocktail hour. Don't be afraid to mix it up with glassware and other serving styles. If you have a barn-themed outdoor wedding, delicate Champagne flutes or cocktail glasses might look out of place. A chunkier stemless option may fit in better, or you can go even more rustic with Mason jars. If you have a more upscale theme or simply prefer the classics, painting your glasses in your wedding colors or attaching custom charms can add a personalized pop to simple glassware.
Set Up Interactive Stations
Buffet-style serving stations are a simple and cost-effective way to get your guests the food and drinks they want. Building a do-it-yourself beer tasting station with your favorite microbrews on tap is simple, yet distinctive—or you can set up a create-your-own cocktail station. Wine tastings are also a popular cocktail hour activity. If your wedding is in your hometown, choose local ingredients for your appetizers and pairings to give out-of-town guests an authentic experience.
Choose Garnishes That Match Your Wedding Colors
Not every drink needs a garnish, but they do add a nice finishing touch. They're also a wonderful way to incorporate your wedding colors subtly into a drink that might not match your theme otherwise. Everything from a simple sprig of herbs to fresh fruits can help your drinks stand out. You can also use colorful garnishes, such as raspberries or oranges, to create decorative displays on your bar or tabletops.
Create a Personalized Bar
While plenty of thought goes into table centerpieces and other reception details, many couples don't do anything to customize the bar. However, there are some great ways to add your own touch, even if it comes with the venue. Consider creating artistic signs that describe your signature cocktails and other unique menu items. Painted or burned wood has a delightfully old-fashioned look, while glass paint on a mirror has an upscale look. Chalkboard signs are ideal for casual weddings. For outdoor cocktail hours, a vintage bar cart adds a fun, old-fashioned feel.
Whether you're planning a prolonged cocktail hour to serve as a major part of your reception or just want a quick break to finish up your photographs, it's easy to create a party that is unique to your personal style and fits easily into the theme of your wedding. Simply add a few custom details and create a couple of signature drinks to make your cocktail party unforgettable.
