Want the ultimate cocktail hour at your next event? Your answer better be yes!
A cocktail hour is a great way to make smooth transitions between different parts of your event.
But besides just as way to buy you some extra time, cocktail hours help keep your guests thoroughly entertained while they wait for you.
So we’re here with some killer ideas to make your cocktail hour the best, as well as to tell you about some must-serve signature cocktail recipes.
Ready to get started? Alright, bottom’s up, my friend!
Cocktail Hour Must-Haves
During cocktail hour there are several things you have to have to make it the best:
1. Comfortable Seating
Sure, the typical cocktail hour theme is high tables and a bar. But don’t forget that some of your guests would prefer to get off their feet.
Be sure to include comfortable seating in your cocktail space to make your guests feel a bit more at ease.
And it’s not hard to do, grab some extra chairs (or a sofa) to make a nice cozy sitting area!
2. Music
During cocktail hour, people are usually feeling more calm and relaxed. For them, the party hasn’t officially started, so no need for the dance music quite yet.
Now we’re not suggesting you play elevator music either.
Find some music that fits your theme (i.e. tropical music if you’re having a beach-themed wedding).
3. An Open Bar
I know, I know. You’re probably looking at your budget thinking, “there’s no way I can afford an open bar.”
Well, we hate to say it, but having a cash bar at your event is a major no-no.
We understand budgets are tight, so make a choice. You can either ditch the liquor (the most expensive part) and just serve beer and wine. Or, you can create a special signature drink to serve instead. Bottom line though, don’t make your guests pay for their drinks.
4. Nonalcoholic Options
Not everyone at your event enjoys the taste of alcohol, so make sure you have some other options on the menu.
We suggest making mocktails and/or refreshing drinks during the summer, and hot mixtures of cider or cocoa in the winter.
There’s plenty of nonalcoholic drinks options out there to find, just make sure you offer them at your wedding.
5. Crowd-Pleasing Cocktails
Now on to the part you were waiting for, five cocktails sure to impress your guests!
1. Long Island Iced Tea
No one can deny the sweet and tangy taste of a Long Island Iced Tea. This lovely blend is made up of tequila, vodka, rum, triple sec, and gin.
It’s refreshing and easy to drink, making it one of the best cocktail recipes to have at your event.
2. Mojito
On those super hot days, nothing says thirst-quenching like a Mojito.
Blended with rum, mint sprigs, lime juice, sugar, a splash of club soda, and garnished with a lime, Mojitos have to be on your cocktail list.
3. Margarita
As one of the top requested liquor drinks in America, it’s not a party unless you add Margaritas to the mix.
Coming in either shaken or blended varieties, Margaritas are the easiest choices for your guests to choose from and enjoy.
4. Bloody Mary
Everyone needs an overdramatic sister at their event, so why not invite this little heartwarmer.
A Bloody Mary is a nice blend of vodka, tomato juice, spices, worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, celery, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, celery salt, beef bouillon, horseradish (and it seems like whatever else you might find in your kitchen spice cabinet).
And while they’re known for their complex ingredients list, that shouldn’t discourage you. This drink is a must-serve!
5. Manhattan
Nothing says classy like New York does, so you have to include this little city-slicker drink on your list.
Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a splash of cherry juice, a Manhattan will win the hearts of your guests.
And for the men who prefer their drinks served in a lowball glass, the Manhattan is the real MVP.
What signature drinks did you serve at your event? Let us know in the comment section below or share with us on our Facebook page.
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