Why Wedding Cocktails Matter
Cocktails play a significant role in creating the mood for your wedding. They’re like the soundtrack of your celebration—whether you’re going for a classy soirée or a laid-back bash, the drinks you serve will set the tone.
Wedding signature cocktails, in particular, are a popular way to add a personal touch to the event. These custom drinks can be crafted to match your tastes, wedding colours, or even the season.
For those who love to experiment, try out bold flavours like lavender, chilli, or rosemary. Global influences are also making waves, with a range of international spirits from Japanese whisky to Italian limoncello, bringing exciting new tastes from around the world to your wedding bar.
Keeping up with trends can also take your cocktail game to the next level. From craft cocktails with local ingredients to creative mocktails, today’s wedding cocktails are all about creativity and inclusivity.
Best Wedding Cocktails For Every Season
When it comes to wedding cocktails, the season plays a huge role. Spring and summer call for refreshing, fruity drinks like mojitos, margaritas, and spritzers—perfect for keeping your guests cool and happy. Fresh ingredients like mint, citrus, and berries are perfect for these warmer months, offering a burst of flavour that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
As the weather cools down, it’s all about cosy, comforting cocktails. Think mulled wine, hot toddies, and spiced punches, infused with flavours like apple, cinnamon and pumpkin. These drinks not only taste amazing but also warm up the atmosphere, making your wedding feel even more festive.
Top 10 Wedding Cocktails
1. Mojito
Why it’s popular: This refreshing cocktail, made with rum, mint, lime juice, sugar and soda water, is perfect for spring and summer weddings. Its light and crisp flavour makes it a crowd-pleaser. You can also modify it in a variety of ways by adding berries or tropical fruits to give it a twist.
Best for: Outdoor weddings, particularly in warm weather
2. Margarita
Why it’s popular: Margaritas are versatile and can be customised with different flavours like strawberry, mango or classic lime. The mix of tequila, lime juice and Cointreau makes it a lively option. For a floral, sweeter take, try a Tommy’s Margarita, which swaps orange liqueur for agave and has it served on the rocks.
Best for: Festive weddings with a lively atmosphere
3. Old Fashioned
Why it’s popular: A classic cocktail made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters and a twist of orange. It’s sophisticated and timeless, appealing to guests who enjoy a strong, well-balanced drink. A similar straight-up alternative that is equally classic is the Manhattan cocktail, which is often served with a cherry in the bottom of a Coupette glass.
Best for: Formal or vintage-themed weddings
4. Martini
Why it’s popular: Whether gin or vodka-based, martinis are elegant and straightforward. They can be served in various styles, from dry to dirty, appealing to different tastes.
Best for: Glamorous, black-tie weddings
5. Pimm’s Cup
Why it’s popular: A British favourite, Pimm’s Cup is a light and fruity drink made with Pimm’s No. 1, lemonade and a mix of fresh fruit and mint. It’s ideal for garden parties and outdoor receptions.
Best for: Daytime or garden weddings
6. Bellini
Why it’s popular: A Bellini is a sparkling cocktail made with Prosecco and peach purée. It’s fruity, light, and perfect for toasting during the reception. You can also swap peach puree for raspberry, strawberry, blackberry or mango for a colourful twist on the classic version.
Best for: Brunch weddings or receptions with a celebratory feel
7. Moscow Mule
Why it’s popular: This cocktail, made with vodka, ginger beer and lime juice, is served in a distinctive copper mug. Its spicy and refreshing taste makes it a trendy choice. If you prefer rum to vodka, swap it out and you have yourself a Dark & Stormy.
Best for: Modern or rustic weddings
8. Negroni
Why it’s popular: A Negroni is an equal-parts mix of gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, creating a bitter, complex flavour profile. It’s a sophisticated option for cocktail enthusiasts. For a longer drink, top the mixture with prosecco for a Negroni Sbagliato.
Best for: Evening receptions or weddings with a refined, upscale vibe
9. Aperol Spritz
Why it’s popular: Light, bubbly and slightly bitter, the Aperol Spritz (made with Aperol, Prosecco and a splash of soda) is a popular choice, especially for summer weddings. Campari can replace Aperol for a slightly sweeter, less bitter version.
Best for: Casual, outdoor weddings
10. Classic Champagne Cocktail
Why it’s popular: Simple and classic, this cocktail is made by adding a sugar cube soaked in bitters to a glass of champagne, garnished with a lemon twist. It’s perfect for toasting and adds a touch of elegance.
Best for: Any wedding, particularly formal receptions
Crafting Your Wedding Signature Cocktails
Creating a wedding signature cocktail is a fun way to let your personality shine. Start by choosing flavours and ingredients you both love. Perhaps there’s a particular drink you enjoyed on your first date, or a flavour that reminds you of a special moment in your relationship. Then, think about the colour and presentation to match your theme.
Naming your cocktail is where the real fun begins! Get creative with puns, plays on your names, or nods to shared hobbies. Whether it’s ‘The Jetsetter’ for travel lovers or ‘The Gatsby’ for bookworms, a clever name makes your cocktail that much more memorable.
Tips For Serving Wedding Cocktails
Serving up wedding cocktails like a pro takes some planning. A good rule of thumb is to budget for two drinks per guest in the first hour, then one drink per hour after that. Don’t forget to include non-alcoholic options so everyone can join in on the fun.
Presentation is key when it comes to wedding cocktails. Custom glassware, elaborate garnishes, and even edible flowers can elevate the look of your drinks, making them a visual highlight of the reception. The way a cocktail is served can enhance the overall experience and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Wedding Cocktail Stations: Ideas & Options
Interactive wedding cocktail stations are another trend that’s gaining popularity. These stations allow guests to get involved in the drink-making process, whether it’s customising their own gin and tonic at a gin bar, mixing their own mimosas at a prosecco station, or creating a personalised cocktail from a selection of ingredients. This hands-on approach not only entertains but also ensures that everyone can enjoy a drink that suits their taste.
When setting up a wedding cocktail station, you’ll need to decide between hiring a professional mixologist or going the DIY route. A mixologist can offer expertise and flair, ensuring that each drink is expertly crafted. On the other hand, a DIY station can be more cost-effective and allows guests to personalise their drinks, adding an element of fun and interaction. Whichever option you choose, a well-executed cocktail station can be a highlight of your wedding.
Raise A Glass To Unforgettable Cocktails!
With a bit of creativity, your wedding cocktails can be more than just drinks—they can be a highlight of your celebration. Whether you go classic, modern, or a mix of both, make sure your cocktails reflect your style and set the right mood for your big day. Cheers to planning a wedding that’s as unique and fun as you are! For more wedding cocktail ideas and to book your perfect wedding at Sandon Hall, get in touch with us today.
Wedding Cocktail FAQs
What Are The Best Wedding Cocktails For Large Guest Lists?
Batch cocktails are a smart solution, as they can be prepared in advance and served in large quantities. Drinks like sangria, punch, or pre-mixed margaritas are popular choices that cater to a wide range of tastes and are easy to serve.
How Many Wedding Signature Cocktails To Offer?
While it might be tempting to create multiple signature drinks, it’s often best to keep it simple with two or three options. This ensures that there’s something for everyone without overwhelming guests with too many choices.
Can We Personalise Our Wedding Cocktails?
The answer is a resounding yes. Personal touches, whether it’s through the choice of ingredients, the naming of the drink, or the presentation, can make your wedding cocktails stand out. Customised cocktail menus, complete with descriptions and stories behind each drink, can also add a unique and personal element to your wedding.
