Should I have signature cocktail at my wedding? I get this question often from recently engaged ladies and gents. Sporting a signature cocktail at weddings is a trend that has risen in popularity over the last decade. Weddings typically have one featured cocktail that can be anything from a special sangria, to a special liquor-based beverage, or even a custom mocktail (if your wedding is no-alochol). My answer to this question is yes! But only if it’s in your budget.
Credit: Carter Rose at f8 Studio
Wedding Signature Cocktails
All About Your Favorite Things
Signature cocktails are the perfect way to express yourself and your favorite cocktail as a bride, groom or a couple. Some weddings have a separate signature cocktail for the bride, while having another signature cocktail for the groom. “Bride” signature cocktails are frequently something fruity and fun, while “Groom” signature cocktails are often made with dark liquor like whisky or scotch. But don’t let that confine you! The world is your oyster when it comes to crafting a signature cocktail. Most weddings offer a lone signature cocktail that is an expression of the bride and groom as a couple. Perhaps it’s a liquor that is favored by both, or the cocktail the bride and groom ordered when they first met. Regardless, it’s a fun and unique way for you and your guests to enjoy a special drink.
Don’t Know What to Have?
There are SO many details when it comes to a wedding. Do you want to offer a signature cocktail, but aren’t sure what to have? Enlist your caterer, bartending company, or a local mixologist to help craft the perfect drink. Use your favorite liquor, wine or beer as part of the cocktail, or craft something to match your wedding colors, ambiance or theme.
Match your Color Scheme
For example, this blue beauty was from my wedding. Our colors were yellow and deep navy. To keep with the blue and yellow theme, I selected a lemon drop martini with a blue rock candy swizzle stick. The result was exactly what I wanted. A light yellow cocktail on the initial pour that turned bright blue when the rock candy was added. The guests got also got a crunchy sweet snack at the end. It was perfect!
Credit: Carter Rose at f8 Studio
Get Super Creative and Fun
Rock candy swizzle sticks are a fun and unique way to jazz up a cocktail. My bartender was able to source mine, but here is a link to some on Etsy. Some other fun things include putting puffs of cotton candy in the glass before pouring in the cocktail. This can add a punch of color depending on the cotton candy selected (I used this brand for a party once – it was great!). You can also opt for fresh fruit, or ice cubes with frozen fruit or flowers inside for a feminine touch. The possibilities are endless!
Opt for a Signature Cocktail Plus Wine and Beer to Save Money
Save money by opting for a signature cocktail instead of a full open liquor bar. In other words, it can save you big bucks with your alcohol or bar package to offer guests wine and beer plus a predetermined signature cocktail instead of a full liquor bar. The bartenders can premix parts of the drink, which will save time and help keep cost under control. Many bar packages will offer a set cost per guest for a signature drink (like an open wine/beer bar is $8 per guest, and the signature cocktail is $5 per guest).
Credit: Carter Rose at f8 Studio
Signature Cocktails that Are Not…Well Cocktails
A signature cocktail does not require liquor. Custom sangria, champagne-based drinks and even mocktails are options! Having a brunch reception? Opt for a champagne signature drink, like a twist on a mimosa or poinsettia. Not having alcohol? No problem! Offer a signature mocktail that has fresh fruit juice, fresh fruit and seltzer water for a beautiful, bubbly drink.
Signature Cocktails Are Fun, but Make Sure They Fit with the Budget
A wedding does not need a signature cocktail to be the most wonderful and memorable night of your life. Don’t forget that weddings are all about celebrating you and your significant other. A signature cocktail is not what makes your night special. If it’s not in the budget, dont’ worry. Your guests will enjoy the evening regardless.
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