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  • Cocktail hour & signature cocktail ideas


    In the fun of planning dresses and details, the cocktail hour and signature drink can fall to the bottom of your wedding day to-do list. While you're off taking photos, however, your guests are getting the party started! Read on for great ways to make your cocktail party as unique as your relationship.

Newlyweds holding cocktails

Tips for planning the perfect cocktail hour

Cocktails are the secret weapon in your wedding-planning arsenal. Whether you're planning a prolonged cocktail hour 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!

Choose a signature cocktail that reflects 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 Cucumber Royale. If you typically stay away from spirits, consider a wine-based cocktail, 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.

Signature cocktails for every season

Whether you're saying "I do" in a winter wonderland or a flowering spring garden, use your drink selections to bring the beauty of the season into a cocktail hour that reflects your unique style. Keep your loved ones cool in the sunshine with refreshing spring and summer cocktails, or play up the beauty of fall with rich, spicy drinks that match the magic of the changing leaves. In the winter, warming drinks keep your guests feeling cozy and comfortable as the snow falls outside.

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. Stemless glasses 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 or bubbly bar. 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.


Bang for your buck: The best wine and bubbly for your wedding


Nothing says celebration like wine and Champagne, but with so many amazing options, it can be hard to choose — especially when you're working within a budget. Take the hassle out of the alcohol planning process with these fantastic selections. Each one delivers a spectacular flavor that pleases even the most discerning palate, all without breaking the bank.


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