Cocktail-Hour Trends: Mixology, Bubbly and Beer

Two words. Cocktail hour ! It’s a vivacious kickoff to a wedding celebration that we all know has the power to truly set the tone for the entire evening. Here are three fresh and fun ways to serve alcohol at your wedding.

Champagne Fountains & Bubbly Bars

Photography: Elizabeth Messina

Champagnes and sparkling wines are a nuptial staple. Why not go beyond the toast and incorporate bubbly in a bigger way? This effervescent beverage should take center stage at your event — from tasting bars hosted by a sommelier (a certified wine educator), where guests can sample different vintages, to retro champagne fountains and sparkling cocktails poured at bars made entirely of ice.

Handcrafted Cocktails

Photography: Kristin Taylor Photography

Signature cocktails have been all the rage for the past few years–and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Many venues have mixologists on site to handcraft cocktails just for your wedding.

Choose a cocktail based on your favorite type of drink (vodka, tequila or rum is a great place to start). Next, think about the season — mint basil lemonades work great during the spring and summer, while nutty-based drinks and mulled ciders are hot for winter. Don’t be afraid to add fresh ingredients like fruit purees, mint leaves frozen in ice cubes, herbal garnishes and foams to your concoctions!

Local Brews

Photography: Kelly Park Photography

Okay, this one’s for the grooms! Yes, I know brides like beer too, but there’s no denying that guys will have fun putting their two cents in on this trend. Shake up your beer menu with microbrews, specialty ales and pilsners to round out your bar offerings. Take a cue from your location and find special bottles from local breweries. Guests will take notice of your attention to detail and taste in great beer with a variety of flavor profiles.

Cheers!

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