Having a signature cocktail for your wedding can be a big cost saver over an open bar. There is, however, an art to picking the perfect cocktails. Here are a few basic things to think about to get you started.
Having 2 different cocktails will go a long way toward making sure all your guests have something to enjoy.
Most people gravitate towards either white or brown liquor. Perhaps create something with bourbon and the other with vodka or rum.
Think about your guest list, do you want a strong cocktail that is mostly all liquor or something milder that relies on mixers? You know your crowd. Are they wine sippers or are they more likely to be tossing back shots?
Make it seasonal. If it’s a hot July day you will want something tall, cool and refreshing. A cold winter day will call for something a little stronger, maybe with a cognac or brandy base. If your wedding is near a holiday you can use that as a jumping off point. In summer you could do a blueberry mojito garnished with raspberries for a red, white and blue cocktail.
Think about colors to match your theme. There are so many options here. From Blue Curacao, Chartreuse, Orange Juice to a shot of grenadine to color the drink itself. Then there are garnishes like orange slices, blueberries or raspberries. A slice of starfruit perched on the rim for a starry night theme is perfection. Vodka with peach nectar and a touch of grenadine creates the perfect blush color.
Think about the glassware that the drink uses. A beautiful ballroom cries out for something more elegant than a mason jar! I am thinking martini glasses and champagne flutes or tall, slender cooler glasses.
We took a little poll and it seems the favorites here at Leonard’s Palazzo are the Bahama Mama, Mojito and Sangria.
All of which are ripe for customizing!
Bahama Mama:
The classic recipe is Rum, Coconut, Pineapple Juice and Grenadine. Start there and then play with adding other juices or some of the brightly colored liquors to tint it to match your wedding colors. Another trick is to add the grenadine after it is in the glass to get a sunrise effect.
Mojito:
Another classic Rum drink. Rum, simple syrup, mint and a splash of soda. This one can and has gone anywhere. One of my favorites is a Thai Mojito made with the addition of Thai Basil and Lemongrass. Blueberries are another delicious and pretty twist but really you can add just about anything to make it your own.
Sangria:
This is another classic that has more variations than you can count! Pick a wine, pick some fruits, maybe some herbs and mix up a big batch of awesome. My personal favorite starts with Pinot Grigio, peaches and rosemary.