Amber Dias finds out why signature cocktails are stealing hearts at wedding soirees.
Weddings are all about creating unforgettable experiences, and one of the most delightful ways to do this is through the beverage menu. Signature cocktails add a personal touch and set the tone for a celebration, making it unique to the couple of the hour. They are a fun way to nod to the couple’s personalities, a cherished memory, a family tradition and even an inside joke perhaps. Signature cocktails bring a bit of quirk and fun to a celebration, and serve as a charming detail that guests will surely remember.
What Is A Signature Cocktail?
As the name suggests, a signature cocktail is the featured drink at an event – with endless possibilities for customisation using a variety of liquors, liqueurs, juices, fruits, spices, sodas and garnishes. At weddings, these cocktails could reflect the theme or lean towards combining elements that represent the bride and groom, like a mash-up of their favourite drinks to create something unique.
Putting Your Own Spin On It
Signature cocktails are not a new concept, nor are they new as a trend on the wedding scene. Couples adore the functionality and flair that they offer a celebration, lending just the right amount of whimsy to put a smile on faces. Let’s take a look at some of the key factors that sway hosts to these concoctions over classic fare.
Make it personal
Signature cocktails are an excellent way to showcase a couple’s personality. Perhaps, there’s a drink that throws back to their first date or one they discovered together while travelling. It could be a blend of their favourite flavours, something inspired by their hobbies or even their heritage. But it’s not just about bringing together flavours; naming the cocktail something fun and familiar makes it all the more personal. Examples of names could be The First Kiss, Forever & A Day, or Happily Ever Aperol.
Get ‘em buzzing
A well-thought-out cocktail can become a conversation starter among guests. Creative names, unique garnishes, and even interactive DIY elements at the bar can enhance the guest experience. Adding an interactive element – like a DIY garnish station where guests can add their own citrus slices, herbs, or edible flowers – adds to the wow factor and keeps them entertained.
Stay on budget
Signature cocktails have a functional purpose too. Limiting the bar menu to one or two signature cocktails alongside staples like wine, beer, and soft drinks can help streamline costs. Speciality drinks often use fewer ingredients, making them an economical yet stylish addition.
Keep ‘em moving
A limited beverage menu also helps clear the traffic around the bar. Guests spend less time trying to decide what they want and bartenders can serve faster, ensuring that no one is left waiting too long for their drink.
Snap worthy
Cocktails can be visually stunning, especially with the right glassware, garnishes and presentation. They also photograph beautifully — perfect for those Instagram moments!
Choose Your Cocktail
While signature cocktails are unique to the couple and event, here are a few ideas for a little inspiration…
Blushing Bride: A mix of rosé prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of pomegranate juice, garnished with edible rose petals.
Groom’s Manhattan: A classic Manhattan with a twist, using a smoky bourbon and a maraschino cherry for a refined finish.
Berry In Love Sangria: A sparkling white sangria with mixed berries, orange slices, and a splash of Grand Marnier.
Forever Fizzy: A grapefruit and rosemary spritz that combines grapefruit juice, rosemary syrup, vodka and ginger ale.
Zesty Ever After: A lemon-blueberry daiquiri that marries light rum and lemon-blueberry syrup, served chilled with fresh blueberries.
Crimson Kiss: A pomegranate martini which blends pomegranate juice, vodka, Cointreau and lemon juice.
With Style…
Signature cocktails are more than just drinks; they’re a creative expression of a love story and a memorable treat for guests. With the right planning, they can add flavour, personality and style to a wedding celebration. So, raise a glass to crafting the perfect sip for a very special day – cheers!
Tips To Choose Your Signature Cocktails
Reflect the theme or venue: A beach wedding might call for a play on tropical drinks like a Mai Tai or Piña Colada, while a rustic setting could pair perfectly with whiskey-based cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Kentucky Mule.
Cater to diverse palates: Offer a variety of flavour profiles. You might have one cocktail that’s light and refreshing, like a Gin Spritz, and another that’s rich and bold, like an Espresso Martini.
Consider seasonality: Seasonal ingredients can elevate the taste and appeal of your cocktails. A winter wedding could feature warm flavours like cinnamon and cloves, while a summer celebration might highlight fruity and fresh flavours like watermelon or cucumber.
Keep it simple
Signature cocktails should be easy for bartenders to prepare, especially for large crowds. Limit the number of ingredients to ensure quick service and consistent quality.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Themed bar signage: Design playful signs to display your signature cocktails with illustrations, fun names, or brief stories about why they were chosen.
Unique glassware: Pairing the right glass with each drink can elevate the presentation. Use coupe glasses for elegant champagne-based cocktails or mason jars for rustic-themed weddings.
Edible garnishes: Fresh herbs, edible flowers, citrus wheels, or sugared rims add a sensory touch that looks stunning and enhances the drink’s flavour profile.
Signature ice cubes: Custom ice cubes with edible flowers, herbs, or even your initials frozen inside are a fun way to make your cocktails stand out.
