Seasonal Signature Cocktails for your Celebration
Signature cocktails are a great way to set your wedding apart from the rest. Though some of your guests may stick with their tried and true favorites, offering an original selection that people associate with your wedding is a great way to ensure that your big day will be remembered.
You can choose to feature the bride and groom’s favorite cocktails, create your own, or rename a crowd favorite to reflect your wedding. Whichever direction you decide to go, it’s smart to keep with the seasons– your guests won’t be interested in spiked lemonade at a December wedding. This is an excellent task for the groom to complete, as he can choose a more macho option for the men and pair it with a delicate option for the females. Check out these suggestions for his and hers drinks based on seasons.
Spring
FOR HIM
The Godfather
If the name doesn’t get them, the men will flock to this drink due to its earthy flavors. Made of equal parts whiskey, scotch, and amaretto, this drink will add an Italian kick to your celebration.
FOR HER
Blushing Bride
Because the Blushing Bride drink is light and refreshing, we think it pairs perfectly with a spring wedding. For this drink, you’ll need peach schnapps, champagne or raspberry vodka, and grenadine.
QUICK TIP! A mimosa bar is a perfect way to lighten up the bitter taste of a champagne toast. Offer your guests different selections of juice- cranberry, pomegranate, orange, grapefruit. etc.– leaving a fruity aftertaste in their mouths as they honor your new marriage.
Summer
FOR HIM
Moscow Mule
Vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice this is the perfect drink for a rustic setting.
FOR HER
Something Blue
For this drink, you’ll need blue curacao, coconut vodka, pineapple juice, and lemon juice. The fruity flavors mixed with the coconut will put images of the ocean in your guests’ minds.
QUICK TIP! Consider having a sangria station. Dispensers of white and red wine surrounded by bowls of fresh fruit will add an elegant but creative touch to your bar.
Fall
FOR HIM
Old Fashioned
For this drink, you’ll need whiskey or bourbon– your choice– angostura bitters, sugar cubes, and some water. The men won’t feel bashful asking for this signature drink.
FOR HER
Appletini
To make this concoction, you can decide whether you want to use apple juice, apple cider, apple liqueur apple brandy, or a combination! Combine your choice(s) with vodka, and you’ve got yourself one tart martini.
Q UICK TIP! Offer your guests hot or cold apple cider, with the option to spike it or spice it. For your guests who prefer no alcohol or children, they can add cinnamon or apple slices, while others can add whiskey or rum!
Winter
FOR HIM
Something Brewed
Northeast Ohio is overflowing with breweries offering specialty craft beers. Get in touch with your local brewer to see if they can provide a selection for your wedding, or create your own!
FOR HER
The Newlyweds
This drink has actual gold flecks floating in it (don’t worry– they’re edible)! All it requires is Smirnoff gold and your choice of ginger ale, sparkling juice, or flavored water. If you’re feeling really festive around the holidays, pair the Smirnoff with eggnog!
QUICK TIP! Spiking hot chocolate with Bailey’s Irish Creme, Kahlua, or cinnamon rum and offering toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and candy canes will leave your guests licking their lips in satisfaction.
Talk to your hired bartender, vendor, or caterer (still need one? check out our local vendor list!) to see which liquor is the cheapest. If you’re paying for the bar yourselves, creating a signature drink that features a cheaper liquor is a great way to encourage your guests to go for that rather than a more expensive option. But remember, whether you decide to do an open bar or paid, create your own cocktail or go with the classics, your wedding will be an unforgettable celebration filled with memories to last a lifetime.
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