38 Wedding Reception Signature Cocktail Ideas for a Summer Wedding

Get into the summer spirits.

By Allyson Dickman

•   Updated on 05/05/21

Whether your summer nuptials are happening inside or outside, you’ll want to keep your guests cool and refreshed with a top-notch signature cocktail that captures the flavors and feeling of summer. Of course, your wedding details are up to your taste (and your soon-to-be spouse’s), but remember this: Your signature cocktails can set the tone of your wedding just as much as the reception decor, music, and food.

Can’t you just picture it? Your guests mingling in their best wedding-ready summer attire, beneath twinkling lights and floral arrangements, sipping on something slushy or fruity or both. The scene has all the makings of a beautiful summer wedding that your guests will never forget.

The best part about choosing a specialty cocktail for the night is you don’t have to pick just one. If you love tequila but your spouse is more into rum, combine your tastes with a cocktail made for each of you, then give your signature drinks a fun name. Our list below has a great mix, with flavor profiles ranging from unexpected to classic.

You’ll likely only decide on a couple of cocktails—unless you’re dreaming up a cocktail-centric reception—so try some of these at home before you talk to your caterer or bartender about what you want. Whichever signature cocktails make the final cut, the guests will definitely be happy—who doesn’t enjoy a good drink to celebrate love and happiness?How to Name Your Signature Wedding Cocktail01of 38

Coconut Margarita

Even if your wedding isn’t beachside, your guests will be feeling all of the ocean vibes with this creamy take on a margarita. Made with coconut milk and water, it gets its kick from tequila blanco and triple sec, and its tang comes courtesy of a fresh squeezed lime.

Get the recipe.02of 38

Spring Is In the Air

A simple cocktail deserves an elegant presentation. This recipe from St. Germain is easy on the palate—and on the eyes.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin
• 0.75 oz. St. Germain French Elderflower Liqueur
• 0.75 oz. Martini Ambratto
• 2 dashes orange blossom salive solution
• Basil or basil flower for garnish

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass with a single jumbo ice cube.03of 38

St. Germain Prosecco

If you love elderflower and want it to shine a bit more, try this stripped-down cocktail from St. Germain.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1/2 part Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore DOCG
• 1/2 part St. Germain French Elderflower Liqueur
• 2-3 drops Angostura Bitters per glass
• Lemon slices as garnish

Directions: Pour St. Germain into wine glasses, add drops of Angostura Bitters. Top with Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore. Garnish with a lemon slice.04of 38

Sparkling Summer Peach

Even if you’re not usually a fan of vodka, the mellow fruit flavors in this drink might change your mind. Pineapple and lime juices come together for a bright, sweet, and slightly tangy addition to the peach-infused recipe from Beautiful Booze.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 oz. Seagram’s Peach Vodka
• 1 oz. pineapple juice
• 1 oz. lime juice
• Sparkling wine, to top

Directions: Add all ingredients except sparkling wine into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake hard to chill and combine ingredients. Strain into your glass. Top with sparkling wine. Garnish and enjoy.05of 38

Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco

Don’t worry about the summer heat getting your guests down. With this fizzy sipper they’ll cool off, and be ready to party, in no time. All your bartender needs for this cocktail is Prosecco, limoncello, frozen raspberries, and some refreshing sprigs of mint.

Get the recipe.https://f2c888945e8d4659c848a49d9abac07a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html06of 38

The Royal Wedding

While most of our favorite royal nuptials tend to happen just before summer begins, this royal wedding-inspired recipe from St. Germain lets you bask in regal glory all year round.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 oz. Cazadores Blanco Tequila
• 1 oz. Kaffir lime infused St. Germain French Elderflower Liqueur
• 0.75 oz. Noilly Dry
• 0.25 oz. of fresh lime juice
• 5 dashes chartreuse
• Kaffir lime leaf for garnish

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake lightly. Pour into a coupette and garnish with kaffir lime leaf.https://f2c888945e8d4659c848a49d9abac07a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html07of 38

Corralejo Tequila Tiki

Banana syrup may sound like an unlikely pairing for tequila, but its sweetness is tempered by sour lime juice and rounded out by bitters. This recipe from Beautiful Booze is simple but the flavor profile is complex in the best way.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 oz. Corralejo Silver Tequila
• 1 oz. lime juice
• 1 oz. banana syrup
• 5 dashes of aromatic bitters

Directions: Crush ice ahead of time. Add all ingredients except bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake hard to chill and combine ingredients. Strain into your glass over crushed ice. Top with bitters. Garnish and enjoy.https://f2c888945e8d4659c848a49d9abac07a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html08of 38

Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade

Nothing says summer like a fresh glass of lemonade. But nothing says summer wedding like a blackberry and whiskey version of the season’s classic. You can serve this cocktail made-to-order in mason jars, or have large pitchers on hand for quick pouring.

Get the recipe.https://f2c888945e8d4659c848a49d9abac07a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html09of 38

I Do

The subtle orange tinge of this cocktail from St. Germain is a perfect backdrop for deep, burnt orange and burgundy floral garnishes. Of course, a sprig of baby’s breath—or any other delicate flower—would be just as stunning.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2.5 oz. Beeswax Dewars 12
• 0.75 oz. St. Germain French Elderflower Liqueur
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Orange twist and nasturtium flowers for garnish

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass with a single jumbo ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist and nasturtium flowers for a pop of color.10of 38

Strawberry Basil Paloma

A traditional Paloma combines three parts grapefruit soda and one part tequila. This fruitier update from Beautiful Booze brings agave syrup and strawberries into the mix for added sweetness, and balances it with vegetal notes from the basil leaves.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 oz. Los Arangos Reposado Tequila
• 1 oz. grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz. agave syrup
• 2 chopped strawberries
• 5 basil leaves
• Soda, to top
• Smoked sea salt, to rim

Directions: Rim your glass with smoked sea salt. Combine all ingredients except soda in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to chill and combine ingredients. Fine strain into a hi-ball glass over fresh ice. Top with soda. Garnish and enjoy.11of 38

Bourbon Peach Sweet Tea

Throwing a southern wedding? Go classic with a good ol’ glass of sweet tea, sweetened even more with peach preserves and lemon juice. And of course, spike it with bourbon.

Get the recipe.12of 38

St. Germain Spritz

This classic is so simple but oh-so perfect. The recipe is foolproof, so this cocktail will always taste just right.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 parts Martini & Rossi Prosecco
• 1.5 parts St. Germain French Elderflower Liqueur
• 2 parts club soda

Directions: Fill a tall collins glass with ice. Add Martini & Rossi first, then St. Germain, followed by club soda (the order is essential). Stir completely and garnish with a lemon twist.13of 38

Rum Orange Swizzle

Orange you so happy you just tied the knot? Your guests sure will be once they’ve had a sip of this wedding cocktail. It’s made with summer’s booze of choice, rum, and stirred with fresh squeezed orange juice, a sugar cube, maraschino liquor, and bitters. Don’t forget the cherry on top.

Get the recipe.14of 38

Italian Sling

A classic Gin Sling (which dates all the way back to the 1930s) contains lemon juice, cherry juice, dry gin, and club soda. This twist from Malfy Gin adds simple syrup, vermouth, and bitters—almost like a cross between the OG Sling and a Negroni, another summer staple.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Malfy Gin
• 1 oz. Cinzano Rosso Vermouth
• 0.75 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz. simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Club soda

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a highball glass with a single jumbo ice cube.15of 38

Grapefruit Ginger Spiced Rum Punch

Big batch cocktails can be a lifesaver when it comes down to time and money at your wedding. Consider this sweet, tart, and subtly spicy summer punch for yours. It gets its fizz from ginger beer and sparkling wine, and its tang from a fresh squeezed grapefruit.

Get the recipe.16of 38

Blueberry Ginger Mule

A Moscow Mule practically screams ‘summer’—a bright cocktail inside a frosty copper mug, keeping everything cool in the summer heat. This recipe from Deep Eddy Vodka uses lemon-infused vodka and a homemade blueberry cordial. Yum!

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 oz. Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka
• 1 oz. Deep Eddy Straight Vodka
• 2 oz. blueberry cordial*
• Goya Ginger Beer

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a copper mug filled with crushed ice.

Blueberry Cordial Ingredients:

• 1 lb. frozen blueberries
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon and 1 orange
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1/4 cup white vinegar

Directions: Combine all ingredients in saucepan over medium heat until sugar is dissolved and blueberries burst. Cool and strain.17of 38

Woodford Spire

Bourbon lovers, this one’s for you. It doesn’t get much simpler than this Woodford Reserve recipe. Cranberry lemonade with your favorite spirit—can’t you just see yourself sitting on a porch swing and sipping this as the midsummer sun goes down?

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Woodford Reserve Bourbon
• 2 oz. lemonade
• 1 oz. cranberry
• Lemon twist garnish

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a highball glass with a single jumbo ice cube or copper cup filled with crushed ice.18of 38

Don’t Worry About It

Gamble Scrantom of Bar Biscay in Chicago dreamt up this beautiful concoction. Rose ale and honey add floral notes that are balanced by bitters and a salty rim. It’ll look pretty in pictures and you’ll probably want to go back for another round.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Novo Fogo Tanager
• 0.5 oz. Neisson Rhum Agricole Blanc
• 0.5 oz. lime juice
• 0.75 oz. honey syrup
• 3 drops Hellfire Bitters
• Forbidden Root Sparkling Rose Ale, to top
• Guajillo and salt rim

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a highball glass with a few large ice cubes.19of 38

Strawberry Mamie Taylor

Who says a scotch whiskey drink can’t be fruity? Strawberry puree gives this cocktail from Curich|Weiss a frothy finish, and the ginger cuts the sweetness. Whip this up just in time for strawberry season.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 parts Monkey Shoulder
• 1/2 part lemon juice
• 3/4 part ginger syrup
• 1/4 part strawberry puree
• Soda water, to top

Directions: Shake all ingredients together, pour into a highball glass with a few ice cubes, then top with soda.20of 38

Lobo Negro

Blackberries and ginger isn’t exactly a classic flavor combo, but they balance each other out to be a delicious base for smoky mezcal and tart lime juice. This recipe from Curich|Weiss is the perfect use for ripe summer berries.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 parts Montelobos Mezcal
• 3/4 part ginger syrup
• 1 part fresh lime juice
• 4 blackberries for muddling and 3 blackberries for garnish

Directions: Add blackberries to a cocktail shaker and muddle. Combine the rest of the ingredients and shake well to mix. Strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass. Garnish with three blackberries on a pick.21of 38

Ancho Verde Margarita

A well-made classic margarita is a good go-to any time of year, but summertime practically calls for that perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 part Milagro Silver Tequila
• 1 part Ancho Reyes Verde
• 1 part fresh lime juice
• 1/3 part agave nectar

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker, add ice, shake hard and strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass with half of the rim salted. Garnish with a lime wheel.22of 38

Little Devil

Maple syrup usually pairs well with fall flavors, but in this case, it adds a richer sweetness to the citrusy base of this vodka cocktail. Soda water adds a few bubbles to make it feel even more festive.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.75 oz. Reyka Vodka
• 0.75 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz. maple syrup B grade
• 0.75 oz. Ancho Reyes
• Soda water, to top

Directions: Combine all ingredients together in cocktail shaker. Shake, strain, and serve.23of 38

Highland Sour

A frothy egg white elevates any cocktail, and this sour is no different. It’s super versatile, allowing you to spike with scotch or mezcal, and giving you the choice of orange or strawberry preserves. Just another way to customize every detail of your wedding.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 part Drambuie
• 1/2 part Blended Scotch or Mezcal
• 1/2 part Cynar
• 1/4 part lemon juice
• 1 part Chameleon Mexican Coffee
• 0.5 tsp. preserves, orange or strawberry
• 3/4 part or 1 egg white
• Dash of Angostura Bitters for garnish

Directions: Combine with ice, shake, double strain, and serve. Garnish with dash of Angostura Bitters.24of 38

Hudson Valley Cooler

This Curich|Weiss recipe is a great cocktail because it will transition so easily from summer to fall—the citrus feels summery and the apple cider is true to autumn, so you can carry this drink through multiple seasons.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 parts Hudson Maple Cask Rye
• 1⁄2 part fresh lemon juice
• 1⁄4 part real maple syrup
• 2 parts fresh apple cider
• Apple slices for garnish

Directions: Add lemon juice, maple syrup, and Maple Cask Rye to a shaker with ice and shake briefly to combine and chill. Strain over fresh ice cubes into a rocks glass and top with apple cider. Stir to combine and garnish with apple slices.25of 38

Flor de Caña Piña Colada

This Curich|Weiss recipe is a classic piña colada in all its glory: Mix rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream with crushed ice for blended bliss in a glass. For a tropical destination wedding, this is what guests will be craving.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 2 1/2 parts Flor de Caña 7 Rum
• 3 parts pineapple juice
• 1 part coconut cream
• Pineapple wedge for garnish

Directions: Combine the FDC 7, pineapple juice, and coconut cream in a blender. Add a cup of crushed ice and blend on high until smooth. Pour into a tall glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge.26of 38

Champagne Cobbler

Another simple drink, this will make a lot of folks happy. Champagne (or a less-expensive bubbly like Prosecco), fresh citrus, and simple syrup are all you need.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 0.5 oz. simple syrup
• Orange twist
• Lemon twist
• Champagne
• Peychaud’s Bitters
• Mint and berries for garnish

Directions: Combine simple syrup, oils from citrus twists, and citrus twists into a pint glass. Add crushed ice up to about 1/2 inch below the rim of the glass. Fill glass with Champagne and stir with a swizzle stick. Add a thin layer of crushed ice and add several dashes of Peychaud’s to create a layered color effect. Top with more crushed ice and garnish with mint sprig and fresh berries.27of 38

Tropical Negroni

Whatever you think a negroni should taste like, forget it for a second and check out this drink. It’s got the vermouth and Campari, but swaps in rum (or tequila) where the gin would usually be. Then it balances this boozy beverage with strawberry simple syrup and pineapple juice. The pineapple “glass” is a nice touch but not necessary—especially considering your guests will likely go back for seconds and thirds.

Get the recipe.28of 38

Equinox Vibes

Ross, master mixer at Perfect Pour, promises that even lifelong gin deniers will question their rationale after sipping this drink. Juniper, lemongrass, and citrus notes meld beautifully into what Ross calls “a no-brainer for any summertime shindig.”

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 oz. pineapple juice
• 1 oz. lemon juice
• 0.75 oz. lemongrass syrup
• 0.5 oz. Aperol Aperitivo
• 1.5 oz. Royal Dock Navy Strength Gin
• 0.5 oz. Peychaud’s Bitters

Directions: Combine all ingredients, except the bitters, in a shaker. Shake and strain over crushed ice. Add several dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters to create a solid band of color at the top of the cocktail.29of 38

Summer Bouquet

The name and look of this cocktail by Beautiful Booze is enough to catch the eye, but the details might help convince you to serve it at your wedding. Practically speaking, it can be made in large quantities. Just add ice to a beverage dispenser and voila! Self-serve. In case you want to keep things controlled behind the bar, the bartender can garnish with mini-bouquets of your choice. Hint: Consider edible flowers similar to the bridal party bouquets.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. White Port
• 1 oz. Green Chartreuse
• 0.75 oz. honeysuckle simple syrup

Directions: Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir gently for 30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a mini bouquet made from a lime rind wrapped around leafy greens and a fresh flower.30of 38

Peach Nectar Ginger Beer

Peaches are in their peak during the summer, so capitalize on the sweetness of the fruit then temper it with craft ginger beer for this refreshing treat by Brooklyn Crafted.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Handcrafted Peach Vodka
• 3.5 oz. Brooklyn Crafted Ginger Beer Mini in Mango
• Sliced fresh peaches

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a glass filled with ice and sliced peaches, and stir.31of 38

Bolivian Pisco Ginger Beer Mojito

Pisco is a lightly-colored brandy made in Peru and Chile using fermented grape juice. In this drink by Brooklyn Crafted, Pisco is paired with the ingredients of a classic mojito, then topped with ginger beer for a tasty twist.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• Lime
• Mint leaves
• 1 sugar cube
• 1.5 oz. Pisco
• Brooklyn Crafted Extra Spicy Ginger Beer

Directions: Muddle lime, mint leaves, and sugar cube. Add juice from one half a lime and Pisco. Top with Brooklyn Crafted Ginger Beer.32of 38

Strawberry Basil Mule

What’s better than a classic Moscow Mule? One that amps up the flavor with basil and fresh strawberries. Drink this cocktail by Brooklyn Crafted all summer and you’ll be craving it the rest of the year.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 8 strawberries
• Half a lime
• Basil sprig
• 1.5 oz. premium vodka
• 3.5 oz. Brooklyn Crafted Ginger Beer Mini in Lemon & Lime

Directions: Muddle fresh strawberries (roughly six), two lime wedges, and basil in a copper mule mug. Top with ice, vodka, and Brooklyn Crafted Ginger Beer. Garnish with remaining strawberries, lime wedge, and basil leaves.33of 38

Diablo

Crème de cassis, a black currant liqueur, gives this drink by Bruce Cost Ginger Ale a syrupy base that balances perfectly with the slight saltiness of the tequila and tartness of the lime juice. Ginger ale marries the flavors beautifully.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 0.75 oz. lime juice
• 0.5 oz. crème de cassis
• 1.5 oz. El Tesoro Reposado Tequila
• 4 oz. Bruce Cost Ginger Ale Original

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a glass filled with ice and stir.34of 38

Sparkling Punch

Doesn’t this just look like a summer cocktail? It’s got the bonafide summertime wine—rosé—and fresh strawberries, thinly sliced to add extra color and flavor. Limoncello is an unexpected but yummy addition to this Santa Margherita recipe.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 750-ml bottle chilled Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosé
• 3/4 cup limoncello
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup quartered fresh strawberries
• 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced, seeds removed

Directions: In a large pitcher, combine the limoncello, raspberries, and strawberries. Top with the chilled rosé champagne and stir in half of the lemon wheels. Pour into old-fashioned glasses with ice. Place fruit in each glass and garnish with a lemon wheel. Ensure each glass contains fresh berries.35of 38

Cucumber, Lime & Basil Prosecco Spritzer

This Santa Margherita recipe is for the summer sippers who don’t want something too sweet. Cucumber and basil have distinctly vegetal flavor, so the only sweetness comes from the Prosecco.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 lime, juiced
• 4 basil leaves
• 4 cucumber slices
• Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore DOCG, to top

Directions: Muddle lime juice, basil, and cucumber in a shaker glass. (For extra flavor infusion, allow mixture to marinate in the fridge for at least one hour.) Add ice and shake mixture. Strain the juice only (about 0.5 oz.) into a Prosecco glass. Top with Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore DOCG and garnish with a basil leaf and cucumber slice.36of 38

Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade

When looking for fresh summer produce for this yummy cocktail, don’t forget about raspberries. They’re small but pack a sweet punch that’s heightened by the lemon and sugar in this Santa Margherita cocktail.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 bottle Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore DOCG
• 1/8 cup sugar
• 1/8 cup lemon juice
• 0.5 tbsp. lemon rind, grated
• 1 cup raspberries, muddled

Directions: Combine sugar and juice in a small saucepan, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon rind and 1⁄2 cup of mashed raspberries. Combine mixture and Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore in pitcher. Sprinkle remaining lemon rind and raspberries among the glasses.37of 38

Ginger Sage

Sage and ginger might sound more appropriate for cooking than for mixing up signature cocktails, but that’s what makes this Santa Margherita recipe special. It’s a little sweet and subtly fruity, and your guests will never see this flavor combo coming.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• 1 bottle of Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore DOCG
• Simple syrup
• 1 cup honey
• 3 cups water
• 2 whole pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 large piece of ginger, peeled and diced
• 20 fresh sage leaves (plus more for garnish)

Directions: In a saucepan combine the honey and water over medium heat and bring to a light boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the honey has dissolved completely. Add the pears, ginger, and sage leaves. Simmer, stirring occasionally until the mixture has reduced by 1/3 (about 15-20 minutes). Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for an additional 10 minutes. Strain the syrup into a large canning jar or thick glass bowl. Discard the ginger and sage leaves. Place a few pieces of the cooked pear into each stemless wine glass followed by 2 tbsps. of the simple syrup. Add Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore and serve.38of 38

Sparkling Hibiscus

The best kind of edible flower is one that gives a pop of fresh flavor. The hibiscus syrup in this Santa Margherita cocktail gives it a not-too-sweet base for the Prosecco. As an added bonus, a single hibiscus bloom rests at the bottom of the glass, making this cocktail truly insta-worthy.

To make, you’ll need the below ingredients:

• Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore
• Whole hibiscus flowers, packed in syrup
• 8 tsps. of hibiscus syrup used to pack the flowers

Directions: Place a whole hibiscus flower in the bottom of each glass. Fill glasses with Santa Margherita Prosecco Superiore to 3⁄4 of the rim. Carefully spoon 2 tsps. of the hibiscus syrup down the interior side of every glass.

Mixologists Reveal the Best Wedding Cocktails for 2022

Easy-to-make and great-tasting recipes.

By Joey Skladany

  Updated on 01/05/22

Let’s face it: Aside from the fashion, décor, and food (and maybe the DJ or band), the one thing you remember most about an amazing wedding is the alcohol. Or, maybe you don’t remember anything at all, which means the alcohol did its job a little too well. https://18d44da8688731b534e9c52b09282105.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

It’s important to not only have an ample amount of boozy bevs, but perhaps a specialty cocktail that really sets the mood and speaks to the couple’s favorite flavors. 

But, what will be on trend in the coming year? We asked a handful of top mixologists for their  favorite concoctions to serve on the big day. Whether you have bartenders who can customize or you are creating a signature drink in bulk, here are six options that are guaranteed to make a statement.

MEET THE EXPERT

• Jordan Hughes is an award-winning mixologist with a popular Instagram account The High-Proof Preacher.
• Thomas Mizuno-Moore is senior beverage manager at Aba, Beatrix, The Dalcy, Ema, and L. Woods.
• Mixologist Hannah Chamberlain is the creator behind Spirited LA.
• Tara Nemman is the private and special event manager of RPM Restaurants.

A Seasonal Hit

For DIY weddings, there is a fear that liquors like vodka and gin will get all of the love and you’ll be stuck with leftover bottles of tequila and whiskey. To prevent this from happening (at least if drinks are prepared individually), opt for a cocktail like mixologist Jordan Hughes’ The Maiden Connection that can work with practically any spirit. Its apple cider component also makes it a lovely libation for any fall celebration. 

“This is an extremely versatile cocktail recipe that is my go-to for weddings or special events,“ says Hughes, also known as the High-Proof Preacher. “It’s easy to scale up or down, depending on how many guests you’ll be serving, or you can just make it as a single-serve cocktail.”

“Part of the versatility is that you can easily swap out the base spirit with nearly any liquor you prefer and it will still taste amazing,” he adds. “The recipe was created with Hendrick’s Gin, but I’ve also made it with Hudson Whiskey, Milagro Tequila Reposado, and even Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky and it was absolutely delicious.”https://18d44da8688731b534e9c52b09282105.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

The Maiden Connection

• 1½ part Hendrick’s Gin (also try with whiskey or tequila)
• ½ part ginger liqueur
• ¼ part simple syrup
• ½ part lemon juice
• 1½ part apple cider
• 1½ part sparkling wine
• Apple slices for garnish 

For large groups, batch in a punch bowl. To serve, just pour over ice and garnish with apple slices. If made individually, shake all ingredients (except sparkling wine) with ice, then strain over fresh ice and top with sparkling wine.

A Refreshing Crowd Pleaser

While it may be important to offer a unique drink that’s reflective of the happy couple’s tastes, it’s just as crucial to ensure that it will also be well-received by most of the guests and, as a result, can be served in large quantities. 

Thomas Mizuno-Moore, senior beverage manager at Aba, Beatrix, The Dalcy, Ema, and L. Woods, shares this sentiment, which is why he has created Connie’s Cocktail—a tart, floral blend of liqueurs that appeases most palates. 

“Oftentimes we create custom cocktails for the couple based on a short series of questions that we put together. It’s so important that these drinks feel personal for them!” he says. “But part of the process is [also] talking about the sort of drinks that would be appealing to a large number of people and would also be relatively easy to make lots of.”

“This cocktail is perfect for a wedding,” he says of Connie’s. “It’s light, citrusy and slightly effervescent and wonderful on a warm day or to refresh you in between dances.” 

Connie’s Cocktail

• .75 oz fresh lime juice
• .5 oz Apologue Aronia Berry Liqueur
• .5 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
• 1.5 oz Ford’s London Dry Gin
• 2 oz Three Cents Grapefruit Soda
• Mint leaves for garnish

In a shaker, add all ingredients except the grapefruit soda. Add ice and shake until cold. Add grapefruit soda to tin and then strain over fresh ice in a Collins glass. Garnish with a bouquet of mint and a lime wheel.

The Perfect Punch

Sometimes drinks are just downright beautiful and deserving of their own spotlight. This blush-hued and tropical-influenced quencher is no exception. Garnish it with food-grade rose petals for a romantic presentation that can match any intricate flower design. 

“This celebratory punch is perfect for a wedding because it’s full of fresh, delicate flavor with notes of strawberry, coconut, lime, and basil which perfectly complement the cucumber and rose botanicals from the Hendrick’s Gin,” mixologist Hannah Chamberlain says of her Larrabee Punch. “Serving a punch at your wedding is a great choice because it can be made ahead of time, guests can serve themselves, and because it also functions as a show-stopping centerpiece.”

Larrabee Punch

• Serves 9
• 18 oz Hendrick’s Gin
• 18 oz coconut water
• 9 oz lime juice
• 6 to 9 oz strawberry syrup (recipe below) 
• 1 bunch of basil 
• Fresh strawberries
• Food-grade rose petals (optional, for garnishing)

Add gin, coconut water, lime, syrup, and basil to your punch bowl. Lightly muddle the basil leaves into the punch, then fill the bowl with plenty of ice. Stir 40 to 50 times, and garnish with slices of strawberry, fresh basil leaves, and rose petals. Serve.

Strawberry Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup strawberries

Simmer one cup of water with one cup of sugar until it dissolves. Add the strawberries and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cool then strain out the solids. Store in the fridge and use within five to seven days.
The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Drinks

A Dynamic Duo

Pairing two completely different cocktails to showcase the individual preferences of brides and grooms is a fun way to diversify your offerings. It’s also another way to put a more personalized touch on an already-special occasion. 

“We are seeing brides and grooms choosing signature cocktails that highlight their preferences and personality,” says Tara Nemman, private and special event manager of RPM Restaurants. “The Spritz & Giggles is an effervescent, fruity cocktail that is ideal for celebrating, while the RPM Old Fashioned is one of our signature classics. Additionally, both cocktails photograph beautifully, complementing the photographic artistry of any wedding.”

Spritz & Giggles 

• 1 oz vodka
• 3/4 oz raspberry syrup
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/4 oz Vedrenne Cassis 
• 2 oz Giuliana Prosecco 
• Lemon wheel and dehydrated raspberries for garnish

Add vodka, raspberry syrup, lemon juice and cassis together in a glass. Stir to combine. Add cubed ice to the glass and top with prosecco. Garnish with lemon wheel and a couple dehydrated raspberries.

RPM Old Fashioned

• 2 oz High West Double Rye
• ¼ oz demerara syrup
• 3 dashes angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange peel for garnish

Combine whiskey, demerara syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir for about 30 seconds. Strain into a Double Old-Fashioned glass over a large cube of ice. Garnish with orange peel.

An Elevated Classic

Classics never die, which is why there are certain cocktail staples that must be available at your wedding bar. You can, however, have a little bit of fun by incorporating a new ingredient or two to put a creative spin on the familiar. 

“When looking to enjoy the night for the long haul, we like to look towards split-base cocktails. You can take most classics and use this approach but one of our all-time favorites is the Penicillin,” says McLain Hedges, who owns famed Denver-based Yacht Club with his wife, Mary Allison Wright. 

“Go for the classic and split your favorite whiskey pour with Fino (or Manzanilla) sherry and have your mind blown! At Yacht Club, we do a spin on this modern classic called the Fancy Clancy with Irish Whiskey and homemade ginger-vanilla cream soda that will have you steady sippin’. Think of this one as a whiskey ginger met a Creamsicle and they just consummated the marriage. Sparks are flying, y’all!”

Fancy Clancy

• 1 oz Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey
• 1 oz Fino sherry
• .75 oz mandarin or tangerine juice
• .25 oz lemon juice
• .75 oz Ginger Creamsicle Oleo (recipe below)
• 2 oz soda water

Build all ingredients in a highball glass. Add ice and go nail that first dance.

Creamsicle Oleo

Take peels from all your citrus and add 2 cups of sugar. Allow to sit for 24 hours. Once macerated, add (by weight to sugar where applicable) 50-percent ginger juice, 50-percent water, and one tbsp vanilla extract. Properly dissolve, bottle, and keep refrigerated for two weeks.

New Trend: Raise a Glass to Zero-Proof Cocktails With These 9 Alcohol-Free Recipes

The rise in craft cocktails sans alcohol is something to celebrate.

They say it’s bad luck to toast with an empty glass or to toast without taking a sip to seal the deal. But if you’ve chosen not to drink alcohol, raising a glass with plain water or club soda doesn’t feel quite so celebratory—and what’s a wedding without a few toasts? Enter the zero-proof cocktail.

What Does Zero-Proof Mean?

Zero-proof indicates a beverage with no alcohol involved. Instead of a juice base, a zero-proof drink involves a non-alcoholic spirit alternative, which can achieve the flavor and complexity of a cocktail sans alcohol.

First things first: Don’t call it a “mocktail!” This new evolution of social drinking is just as carefully crafted as its boozy cousin, without the buzz (or the hangover!). As bartenders, mixologists, and at-home aficionados explore everything from shrubs and house-made bitters to botanical alternatives to vodka, whiskey, and gin, it’s becoming even easier to choose not to drink without feeling left out. So whether your wedding guest list includes a few mothers-to-be, you’ve got friends or relatives who are sober, or you know some of your guests might just choose not to drink, it’s worth adding a zero-proof cocktail or two to your wedding beverage menu—and we’ve got the expert scoop on how to make it happen.

What is a zero-proof cocktail?

“It’s a cocktail with no alcohol involved,” explains Carley Gaskin, mixologist and co-founder of Hospitality 201 in Chicago. “In the past, when guests ordered zero-proof cocktails the would get something juice-based that was heavily sweet. Now, with new non-alcoholic spirit alternatives, you can get the flavor and complexity of a cocktail without alcohol.” Adds Samantha Biszantz of UpRooted Events and Root & Flower in Vail, Colorado, “A zero-proof cocktail should be, well, a cocktail! It should have the complexity of a cocktail, but without the booze.”

MEET THE EXPERT

• Carley Gaskin is a mixologist and co-founder of Hospitality 201 in Chicago.
• Samantha Biszantz is a mixologist at UpRooted Events and Root & Flower in Vail, Colorado.

What makes a great zero-proof cocktail?

The secret to a great zero-proof cocktail lies in the balance. “Whether you’re using alcohol or not, we start by balancing sweet and sour or sweet and bitter, then add complexity with spices, herbs, or other savory notes,” Biszantz explains. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version of a classic cocktail, try to replicate drinks that have less booze to begin with. “For example, it’s a lot easier to make a zero-proof take on a margarita, Paloma, or even a gin and tonic—which all use alcohol-free mixers—than drinks that are all alcohol like a negroni or an old fashioned,” Biszantz advises. Gaskin continues, “Just removing the alcohol leaves you with only juice and sweetener, so you do want to replace it with something that has some of those bitter or herbal notes.” That’s where a zero-proof spirit alternative can come in handy, helping you balance those flavors without the booze. So, what are your options?

• Gaskin loves Ritual, which makes non-alcoholic alternatives to gin and whiskey. “You can substitute them one-to-one in a recipe and really keep that flavor profile you know and love,” she says.
• Biszantz turns Seedlip as an alternative because of the product’s complex use of botanicals. “It’s not a copycat gin but has a selection of unique herbal and botanical flavors that each bring something special to a zero-proof cocktail,” she says. “You get the complexity that a gin or tequila can add to a drink, just without the alcohol.”

And, of course, there is a whole world of zero-proof cocktails beyond simply swapping in a non-alcoholic alternative. “We’ve found that the best way to make a great zero-proof cocktail is through the use of shrubs,” says Biszantz. “Just mixing a great shrub with soda water can produce a complex non-alcoholic drink!”

A shrub is a base of vinegar—most often apple cider vinegar—and a sweet element like sugar, honey or agave, which is enhanced with fruit, spice, herb, et cetera.

Can zero-proof cocktails be made in batch?

Ready to serve a crowd? The shrub model is perfect for large groups at your wedding. “Once made, shrubs keep for a very long time, and they’re easy to mix and serve quickly. We usually do a two-to-one ratio of sparkling water to shrub, add ice, and then top with a garnish.” So it’s just as easy as pouring a cranberry juice and soda, but with way more payoff in the flavor and satisfaction departments. A punch is another creative way to batch an interesting drink and make service easy. “In fact, I love mixing a great zero-proof punch that’s delicious on its own, and then adding a splash of spirit for guests who do want alcohol in their drink,” Gaskin suggests. Turn to teas, citrus, and a bit of sweetener to create a punch with a bit of bitterness, spice, and freshness.

What about beer drinkers?

If your guests are more of the beer-drinking type, there is a new wave of craft non-alcoholic beers that are a far cry from the bland and watery NA beers of the past. They’re full of flavor, available in every style from wheat to punchy IPA, and are brewed with enough care to tempt even the most devoted of full-strength beer drinkers. A few favorites:

• Athletic Brewing Co., out of Connecticut, offers a flagship Run Wild IPA, which features the bitterness from a blend of five hops and a malty body, and Upside Dawn golden ale, a floral and refreshing brew that is also gluten-removed, alongside seasonal brews like a citrusy double IPA and an extra-dark stout.
• Wellbeing Brewing Company in Missouri brews a citrusy, malty Heavenly Body Golden Wheat and a spicy, floral Hellraiser Dark Amber, which are available in both cans and kegs to fuel your party.
• Also look for Nanny State from BrewDog in Ohio, a malty and hoppy “near beer” with a good dose of bitterness.

How to Serve Beer at Your Wedding

Whether you’re sober, pregnant, the designated driver, or just don’t feel like having booze, the rise in craft cocktails sans alcohol is something to celebrate. Check out the zero-proof cocktail recipes below—they’re sure to satisfy your craving for a craft beverage, all guaranteed to be hangover-free.01of 09

Goose & Gander

Looking for a drink that’s a bit, well, bitter? Try this one from Momed in Los Angeles. “The key to making a great non-alcoholic drink is to treat the drink as a proper cocktail, not just mixing juices together and calling it a day,” says Mark Stone of Momed. “Bitters are a good way to add complex layers, and pickling fruit and using the salty brine also adds amazing depth to your drink.”

 To make, you’ll need:

• 1/2 oz gooseberry brine (from pickled gooseberries)
• 3 whole pickled gooseberries
• 4 Thai or Persian basil leaves
• 1/2 oz pineapple gum
• Yuzu tonic (East Imperial brand is a great option)

Directions: Muddle all ingredients, add ice, then top with yuzu tonic. Garnish with a fresh gooseberry.02of 09

Pom & Pom

Another favorite? Ths fresh and fruity beverage from Genever in Los Angeles. “A fresh and floral version of an Arnold Palmer, this cocktail combines a slight spice from fresh ginger syrup with tartness from lemon and pomegranate, brought together with the floral notes of jasmine green tea,” says Jessie Smyth of Genever. “Allow the tea to brew longer and you can trick your palate into believing there is some sort of bitter amaro in the drink! Just be sure not to get too close to the bride with this one—the pomegranate juice will stain a white dress.”

To make, you’ll need:

• 1 oz ginger syrup
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz pomegranate concentrate
• 2 oz jasmine green tea

To make ginger syrup: In a blender, combine two parts ginger and two parts boiling water with 1 part sugar. Blend into a liquid and let sit for 30 minutes. Strain out ginger pulp.

To make jasmine green tea: Brew jasmine green tea using four servings of tea to every one cup of boiling water. The longer you let it brew, the stronger and more bitter it will become.

Directions: Combine all ingredients, add ice and shake, then strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and an edible flower.https://e6d104357f8223cae6b55b7625cc2ab8.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html03of 09

Turmeric Shrub

This rec comes from UpRooted Events and Root & Flower in Vail, Colorado. “We first created this shrub to use in our take on a Penicillin, which is classically made with Scotch, but it is delicious on its own with some sparkling water!”

To make, you’ll need:

• 4 parts lemon juice
• 1 part honey
• 2/3 part apple cider vinegar
• 2 parts chopped ginger
• 1 part turmeric
• Cinnamon sticks, cloves & allspice

Directions: Blend everything except the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice. Add the spices and allow the flavors to meld, then strain. Combine two ounces of shrub and four ounces of sparkling water in a cocktail glass, add ice, garnish, and serve.04of 09

Autumn in New York

“The Apple Som Cordial (a drinking vinegar or shrub) lends the drink both sweetness and a tart bite,” says Sam Thonis of Getaway in Brooklyn, New York. “The aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas!) gives the drink body, and the mint, turmeric, cardamom, and Dram Black Bitters combine to act as a medley of warming fall flavors. This drink definitely falls on the more complex end of the spectrum for our menu. Like many classic rocks drinks, it is made to be sipped and savored, not thrown back in one gulp.”

 To make, you’ll need:

• 1 1/4 oz. Apple Som Cordial
• 1/2 oz. lemon juice
• 1/2 oz. Dona turmeric concentrate
• 1/4 oz. aquafaba
• 3 dashes Woodward Extract Co. alcohol-free cardamom extract
• 3 dashes Dram Black Bitters
• 4-5 torn mint leaves

Directions: In a shaking tin, muddle the mint with the Apple Som Cordial. Add the rest of the ingredients, and shake hard. Pour into a rocks glass over a splash of seltzer. Garnish with an edible flower.The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Drinks05of 09

First Kiss

This zero-proof cocktail is a recommendation of Hospitality 201 in Chicago, Illinois. In place of gin, it includes a Ritual zero-proof gin alternative.

For a cocktail, you’ll need:

• 2 oz. Ritual Zero Proof Gin alternative
• 1 oz. hibiscus tea
• 1/2 oz. lemon juice (or squeeze of half lemon)
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup

For punch, you’ll need:

• 1 bottle Ritual gin alternative
• 3 cups hibiscus tea
• 1 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup simple syrup

Directions: Combine all in a shaker or tall glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Serve over ice, garnished with a lemon wheel. For punch, combine in a bowl and stir well, then serve over ice and garnish with a lemon wheel.06of 09

Zero-Proof Penicillin

This zero-proof cocktail is a recommendation of Hospitality 201 in Chicago, Illinois. It involves a Ritual zero-proof whiskey alternative, as mentioned above.

To make, you’ll need:

• 2 oz. Ritual Zero Proof Whiskey alternative
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup
• 1/4 oz. ginger juice

Directions: Combine all in a shaker or tall glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Serve over ice with a lime wheel.07of 09

Orchard Island

This zero-proof cocktail comes from Derossi Global Cocktail Bars in New York City.

To make, you’ll need:

•  2 oz. coconut puree
• 2 oz. green apple juice
• 3/4 oz. lemongrass syrup
• 3/4 oz. lemon juice
• 2 crushed ice cubes

 Directions: Whip two crushed ice cubes and ingredients together in a shaker until cold and frothy. Pour over pebble ice and top with additional ice. Garnish with apple slices and star anise.08of 09

Greenhouse

Another rec from Derossi Global Cocktail Bars in New York City, this beverage is a zero-proof take on a classic refreshing cucumber cocktail.

To make, you’ll need:

• 10-15 mint leaves, pressed in bottom of Pilsner glass
• 2 oz. cucumber juice
• 1 oz. cane syrup
• Juice of 1 lime

Directions: Combine juice and syrup over mint leaves. Top with pebble ice and garnish with mint leaves and a fresh orchid.09of 09

Forbidden Fruit

With a name like “Forbidden Fruit,” this combo from Derossi Global Cocktail Bars in New York City already sounds enticing.

To make, you’ll need:

• 1/2 oz. lemon juice
• 1/2 oz. lime juice
• 3/4 oz. orange juice
• 2 oz. grapefruit juice
• 1 oz. oregano syrup
• 3/8 oz. ginger syrup
• Pinch of turmeric
• 2.5 crushed ice cubes

Directions: Whip two-and-a-half crushed ice cubes and ingredients together. Pour over pebble ice and top with additional ice. Garnish with a turmeric-dusted lime wheel.

Cheers!

25 Best Fall Cocktails

Fall is a season that’s full of so much vibrance and color, which is why I love these fall cocktails!

From apple mimosas to pumpkin martini, these drinks feature all of the best parts of the season.Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!

I love infusing fall flavors into cocktails. Apples, pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg add warmth and coziness to boozy drinks.

This collection of fall cocktails will definitely make your party a huge hit. They’re a breeze to make, but so tasty, it’s hard to pick a fave.

By the end of the night, expect your friends to compliment you for your pro bartending skills.

These fall cocktails will make your fall parties more fun and exciting. Let’s get the party started, shall we?

SaveRecipesRecipe

1. Autumn Apple Bourbon Fizz 

This fizzy drink is cold yet warming at the same time! I love drinks that give me that dual sensation. 

Apple butter in a cocktail? Why not? It’s fall, after all. Apple butter, bourbon, a dash of cinnamon, and ginger ale or beer on top make this tasty drink.

It’s easy, yet the flavor combination is spot on.SaveGinger Pear Bourbon CocktailNo Spoon Necessaryginger-pear-bourbon-splash-cocktail-short-pin3

2. Ginger Pear Bourbon Cocktail

This smooth cocktail is fruity and sweet with a bit of spice. It has all the fall flavors anyone can ask for. 

The combination of smooth bourbon and warm ginger is just spot on.

There’s a bit of lemon juice in there, too, which contrasts the sweetness of the pears and honey so well.SaveApple Cider Mimosa {Delicious and Refreshing!} – WellPlated.comWell Plated by ErinApple Cider Mimosa {Delicious and Refreshing!} – WellPlated.com

3. Apple Cider Mimosa 

Take out those flutes, we’re about to have a fancy feast! This bubbly mimosa is as elegant as it is delicious. 

Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!

The cinnamon-sugar rim adds a sweet-n-spicy flavor and a nice, festive touch. SavePumpkin Pie Martini Recipenoblepig.com

4. Pumpkin Pie Martini  

Turkey may be the star of Thanksgiving, but this pumpkin pie martini might just take the spotlight. 

Sure, you can’t go wrong with beer and champagne, but this martini definitely adds another level of festiveness to your party. 

The flavor is everything you’d imagine a pumpkin cocktail would be. I

t’s sweet with a bit of spice, and so cozy and warming. It’s the ultimate dessert and cocktail in one!SaveFestive Holiday Pomegranate Gin Cocktail | Holiday DrinksJoyful Healthy Eats

5. Pomegranate Gin Cocktail  

Look how bright and vibrant this cocktail is! It’ll definitely give your holidays extra cheer. 

Here’s how it goes down: gin, orange juice, pomegranate juice, honey, and thyme.

Gin is bitter, but the juices and honey balance it out nicely,  making it sweet, citrusy, and oh so refreshing.

The thyme adds a nice earthiness, too!

SavePumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail – The Cookie RookieThe Cookie Rookie®This Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail is exactly what you need to be sipping on this season. This festive fall cocktail brings the perfect pumpkin flavor to a classic White Russian with the addition of pumpkin spice creamer. It’s so creamy, dreamy, and delicious! You have to try this pumpkin cocktail for yourself.

6. Pumpkin Spice White Russian 

Give the classic White Russian an autumn twist. All you need is pumpkin spice.

This idea is pure genius! I’m already such a huge fan of the White Russian – a rich and creamy blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh cream.

The addition of pumpkin spice creamer gives it a whole new layer of flavor.

The whipped cream topping and graham cracker rim add a nice touch, as well.SaveRecipesRecipe

7. Apple Cider Sangria 

There’s nothing like a glass of sangria to cap the night off.

This classic cocktail is a refreshing blend of wine, brandy, orange juice, and chopped apples and oranges. 

You’ll switch up the recipe, though, to make it more fall-fitting. Fresh apple cider, ginger brandy, and chopped pears definitely do the trick. 

Feel free to make it your own, but don’t skip the ginger brandy. It’s what gives this sangria that cozy autumn vibe.SaveMaple Old-FashionedEpicuriousMaple Old-Fashioned recipe | Epicurious.com

8. Maple Old Fashioned 

There’s nothing wrong with the classic old-fashioned, but it also couldn’t hurt to give it a little fall twist.

Instead of just bitters, whiskey, and a slice of fruit for garnish, we’re throwing in a splash of maple syrup.

Not only does the maple syrup add some sweetness to the otherwise bitter drink, but its distinct flavor also gives it a nice autumn feel.SavePumpkin Apple Shandy – Jennifer MeyeringJennifer MeyeringPumpkin Apple Shandy – Jennifer Meyering

9. Pumpkin Apple Shandy 

Inspired by fall, this version of shandy is made with pumpkin beer and apple cider.

Is there a better fall combination than pumpkin and apples? I don’t think so.

That said, this shandy, for me, is the epitome of fall cocktails. It’s wonderfully sweet, spicy, and warming.

Because it only contains half a glass of beer, it’s not too strong. It’s the perfect nightcap if you ask me. SavePumpkin Pie Moscow Mule Recipe – A Nerd CooksA Nerd Cooks

10. Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule 

Pumpkin butter, vanilla vodka, and ginger beer join forces to make an amazing cocktail/dessert!

It’s like a slice of pumpkin pie, but instead of eating it, you’ll sip it. 

The sweetness and richness of the pumpkin butter, the warmth of the ginger beer, and the bitterness of vodka create such a wonderful flavor combination.

SaveHoney Roasted Pear Sparkling Cocktails & MocktailsCotter Crunch

11. Honey Roasted Pear Sparkling Cocktail

Honey roasted pear – this alone already sounds so exciting! This sparkling cocktail is bright and festive, to say the least.

This marvelous cocktail has honey-roasted pear puree, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Mixed with either champagne, grapefruit juice, or sparkling wine, this drink can be adjusted to tailor to all guests.SaveApple Cider Hot ToddyWholefullyApple Cider Hot Toddy

12. Apple Cider Hot Toddy 

A hot toddy is an Irish drink made of liquor, honey, herbs, and spices.

Served hot, it is usually consumed during cold weather to cap off the night or to soothe symptoms of cold and flu.

This variation of the Irish classic is extra special, thanks to apple cider.

Imagine yourself sitting by the fire with family and friends after a hearty dinner, sipping on this hot, cozy drink! Just lovely, am I right? SaveApple Cranberry Moscow Mule – What’s Gaby CookingWhat’s Gaby CookingApple Cranberry Moscow Mule – What’s Gaby Cooking

13. Apple Cranberry Moscow Mule  

It’s a mix of vodka, cranberry juice, sparkling apple juice, and ginger beer, with fresh cranberries and sliced apples for garnish.

It’s not too sweet, not too bitter, just perfectly delicious.

Aside from vodka, you can also use gin or tequila. Or, make a mocktail and just skip the liquor. It’ll be delicious, either way.

SaveApple Cider Bellini – Crazy for CrustCrazy for Crust

14. Apple Cider Bellini 

Most cocktail recipes call for several ingredients; not this one. The apple cider bellini only requires three ingredients.

Despite it being basic, it matches the quality of any cocktail on this list.

Made with apple cider, apple vodka, and sparkling wine, this cocktail is definitely full of apple flavor.SaveToasted Pecan Old FashionedThe Speckled Palate

15. Toasted Pecan Old-Fashioned

Here’s a new twist to the classic old-fashioned. 

This variation takes days to make because the toasted pecans need to be submerged in whiskey for a while. The long wait is worth it, though.

Mixed with bitters and sugar, this old-fashioned has a lovely wonderful nutty flavor to it.SaveBlack Russian Drink RecipeMix That DrinkBlack Russian Drink Recipe

16. Black Russian

The stronger version of the White Russian, Black Russian is a blend of vodka and Kahlua.

It’s more intense, but I love how the flavor of the coffee liqueur really shines through.

Fun fact: The Black Russian came way before the White Russian.https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.488.0_en.html#goog_1976964954

It first appeared in Brussels back in 1949, while its creamier counterpart only had its first mention in 1965.SaveClassic Mulled WineCookie and Kate

17. Mulled Wine 

Looking for a fall cocktail for date night? Mulled wine is exactly what you’ll need.

Just picture you and your partner having a lovely dinner by the fireplace on a cold fall evening, sipping on this sweet and fragrant wine.

How’s that for romantic?SaveCranberry MimosasStress BakingA cranberry lover’s version of the standard mimosa. Tart cranberries pair perfectly with a sugar-rimmed glass and sparkling champagne bubbles! The perfect holiday cocktail or Christmas cocktail – also known as a Poinsettia. | cranberry mimosas | cranberry cocktail | cranberry champagne | easy cocktail | christmas cocktail | poinsettia | champagne and juice | cranberry champagne cocktail | stress baking recipes | stressbaking.com #stressbaking #holidays #christmas #thanksgiving #newyears

18. Cranberry Mimosa 

Champagne and cranberry juice create such a sweet and fruity cocktail.

Garnished with fresh cranberries and served in a sugared rim, this cranberry mimosa looks just as good as it tastes.

The sweet sugar rim balances out the tart cranberries really well. SaveSpiced Caramel Apple MartiniThe Chunky Chef

19. Caramel Apple Martini   

This spiced caramel apple martini is a simple blend of caramel vodka and apple cider with apple slices for garnish.

What sets it apart, though, is the luscious mixture along the rim. There’s white and gold sugar and caramel sauce.

Together, it’s like drinking a delicious caramel apple!https://1c1e05eab80748521fe92c34db4370d7.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.htmlSaveEasy Cranberry Margarita – Isabel Eats {Easy Mexican Recipes}Isabel EatsFilled with holiday cheer, this Cranberry Margarita is the perfect Christmas and New Years drink! Made with only 4 simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and comes together in only 5 minutes. #margarita #christmas

20. Cranberry Margarita 

Love the pink hue of this cranberry margarita! It’s very festive, indeed.

It’s a simple, four-ingredient, 5-minute recipe, but the flavor is spot on.

Tequila, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice together make a refreshing and beautifully pink cocktail.SaveSmoky Harvest Apple Cider Margarita.Half Baked Harvest

21. Apple Cider Margarita

Here’s what makes up this unique and flavorful margarita: tequila or mezcal, orange liquor, apple cider, lime, and maple.

The flavors are a combination of sweet, tart, and smoky, and it’s 100% delicious.SaveHot Buttered RumEpicurious

22. Hot Buttered Rum 

The name of this cocktail alone is making me drool. Butter in a cocktail? I’m listening.

The butter is cooked with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and then mixed with rum.

One sip of this hot drink will surely warm you up on a chilly night. The flavor is impeccable.SaveRecipesRecipe

23. Brown Sugar Fig Bubbly 

If you’re looking for something unique, this fizzy fig cocktail has your name all over it. I’ve tasted nothing like it, and I love it! 

Figs, brown sugar, and a splash of lemon are mashed for a good 5 minutes, so all the nice flavors incorporate with each other.

It’s then topped with prosecco and finished with a slice of fig. 

It’s sweet, bubbly, and downright delicious.SaveEnjoy a Sweet Caramel Apple Pie Cocktail With TequilaThe Spruce EatsTequila Caramel Apple Pie Cocktail Recipe

24. Tequila Caramel Apple Pie Cocktail

Tequila is always a reliable liquor to warm you up on a cold fall evening.

Mostly bitter, it’s not exactly the best when it comes to taste, though.

So to sweeten it up, why not add some apple cider and butterscotch schnapps?

The combination transforms the tequila into a more enjoyable drink that tastes like caramel apple pie.  SaveVanilla Chai Old Fashioned.Half Baked HarvestVanilla Chai Old Fashioned | halfbakedharvest.com #bourbon #cocktail #drink #thanksgiving #holiday #chai

25. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned

Our final cocktail is another amazing take on the classic old-fashioned.

You won’t believe how spiced chai simple syrup makes such a big difference!

The star of this drink is the syrup. Made by combining chai tea, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, it’s easy, yet the flavor is phenomenal.

This old-fashioned is not too sweet, but not too strong either. It’s the perfect combination.https://1c1e05eab80748521fe92c34db4370d7.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

6 Refreshing Spring Cocktails to Serve at Your Wedding

 photo by Sunshine Shannon Photography

It’s finally time to raise a glass to warmer weather and longer sunny days with some new cocktail recipes that would be perfect for a spring wedding reception! Spring cocktails are all about bright flavors, refreshing finishes, and beautiful presentation. We’re loving anything with citrus, berries, and herbs right now, and all three of those flavors profiles would be the perfect addition to your signature spring cocktails. Whether you prefer whiskey or tequila, we’ve got spring cocktails for every taste that your guests are sure to love!

 photo by Sunshine Shannon Photography | recipe by Jamie Oliver

BERRY & ROSEMARY JUNIPER GIN FIZZ

*Makes 10 servings

Ingredients:

1 lb frozen blackberries
4 lemons, chopped
2 rosemary sprigs
10 Juniper berries
5 tsp honey
2 cups Bombay Sapphire Gin
1 liter of soda water

Directions:

Divide the blackberries, lemons, and rosemary evenly between each tumbler, then add a juniper berry and ½ tbsp honey. (These can be made ahead of time and sit in the fridge until your guests arrive.) When you’re ready to serve, use a muddler to mash the berry mixture until the fruit is crushed. Fill each glass with ice, top with 1.5 oz gin and a dash of soda water, stir well, and serve.

 photo by Amy Fanton Photography | recipe from Texas Monthly

BASIL MINT JULEP

*Makes 1 serving

Ingredients:

2 oz Maker’s Mark
1/4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
2 fresh chocolate basil leaves
3 fresh mint leaves
Garnish: orange twist and bitters (optional)

Directions:

Shake all ingredients with ice and pour into your favorite glass. Garnish with orange twist, extra basil, and mint. Add bitters if you like a kick!

 photo by Swak Photography | recipe by Such the Spot

COTTON CANDY MARGARITA

*Makes 4 servings

Ingredients:

3/4 cup tequila
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup cream soda
1/4 cup orange liqueur
Garnish: 1 package cotton candy

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and stir vigorously. Fill serving glasses 3/4 of the way with cotton candy.* Pour mixture over cotton candy until the glass is half full. Add ice. Stir to combine.

*For a beautiful presentation on your bar, place cotton candy on top of each glass and allow guests to mix it into the drink themselves.

 photo by Sunshine Shannon Photography | recipe by The Girl on Bloor

GRAPEFRUIT THYME & ELDERFLOWER COCKTAIL

*Makes 1 serving

Ingredients:

1.5 oz vodka
1 ruby red grapefruit
1 tsp elderflower cordial
Sparkling water
1/2 bunch fresh thyme

Directions:

Pour vodka into a glass. Using a glass juicer, or using your hands, squeeze juice from the grapefruit then pour into the glass. Add 1 tsp of elderflower cordial, along with a handful of ice cubes. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a sprig of thyme.

 photo by Kristin Banta Events | recipe by Lemon Tree Dwelling

LEMON MERINGUE SANGRIA

*Makes 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

750 mL bottle sauvignon blanc or other dry white wine
1 cup lemonade
1/2 cup whipped cream flavored vodka
1/4 cup limoncello
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
Juice of 1 lemon
Garnish: 1-2 lemons, sliced

Directions:

Prepare simple syrup by combining 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and juice of 1 lemon in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. In a medium pitcher, combine wine, lemonade, vodka, limoncello, and cooled simple syrup. Garnish with lemon slices. Chill until ready to serve.

 photo by Swak Photography | recipe by Epicurious

THE SPRING FOWARD

*Makes 1 serving

Ingredients:

For the rosemary-infused vodka:

1 bottle of vodka
2 large rosemary sprigs

For the cocktail:

1.5 oz rosemary-infused vodka
1/2 oz simple syrup
1/2 oz ruby red grapefruit juice
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
Garnish: rosemary sprig

Directions:

For the rosemary-infused vodka:

Place rosemary sprigs in a 1-quart resealable glass jar and pour in vodka. Let sit at room temperature for 24 hours. Taste, and if desired rosemary flavor is present, remove the rosemary sprigs and pour back into the vodka bottle, or infuse for an additional 24 hours if more flavor is desired.

For the cocktail:

In a cocktail shaker, combine rosemary-infused vodka, simple syrup, grapefruit juice, and lemon juice. Add ice and shake. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

Everything You Need to Know About Brut Champagne

Raise a glass to decoding the mysteries of your favorite sparkling wine.B

There’s no drink more synonymous with the word “celebration” than brut champagne: No wedding is complete without a first toast, a romantic dinner just wouldn’t be the same without a glass of bubbly, and what else could you possibly ring in the new year with?

And yet, for all of our love of the sparkling stuff, between the “cuvées” and “blancs”, many of us can find ourselves intimidated when staring down a wine menu. Instead of opting for the old “order the second least expensive” trick, this season impress all of your guests by learning all of the ins and outs of ordering and serving champagne like a pro.

Read on for everything you need to know about the secret language of champagne, the essential equipment, and the wines you need for the perfect celebratory toast.

---

---

.

Though it may be the drink of kings, at its most basic level, champagne is a white wine. To earn the right to call itself champagne, though, a bottle must meet the Appellation d’Origine Controlée or AOC standards. The most basic of these is regional—authentic champagne can only be produced in the Champagne region in France, an area in the country’s northeast, about 100 miles outside of Paris.

A VINEYARD IN THE CHAMPAGNE REGION OF FRANCE.GETTY IMAGESSEYESPHOTOGRAPHY

Of course, geography isn’t the end-all be-all. For a sparkling wine to achieve AOC status, it must also be made only from the approved grape varietals (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Arbane, and Petit Meslier, though the first three are by far the most commonly used in champagnes) via a handful of approved pruning methods, from land that does not exceed the maximum approved yield for the grapes; it also must undergo a secondary fermentation once it’s in the bottle and meet the standards for minimum periods of maturation on lees, a type of yeast that helps the wine develop its nuance and flavor.

---

.

Though sparkling wines go back farther than their history in northern France, what we know as champagne got its start accidentally.

A STATUE OF DOM PERIGNON.GETTY IMAGESBERNARD CHARLONADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW

As a byproduct of the Champagne region’s climate, early frosts would send the fermenting yeast in bottle-aging wine into hibernation; when the temperatures warmed, the yeast would wake back up and begin fermenting the wine again, producing an excess of carbon dioxide and, in turn, bubbles. These unexpectedly fizzing bottles were prone to bursting, earning the drink the spurious nickname “the devil’s wine.”

Legend has it that Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon is responsible for turning these errors into a true wine style in the 17th century (though he was, in fact, originally charged with the task of preventing the bubbles rather than perfecting them). The style grew quickly in popularity, especially among the French upper class, and following Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, became a go-to for the Russian Tsars as well, cementing its status as an elite beverage.

---

.

Type of Grape

Designations by grape type are typically either Blanc de Blancs, which is made only from white grapes, or Blanc de Noirs, which are made exclusively from red grapes. Despite the name, Blanc de Noirs also appear white in the glass just like Blanc de Blanc, but the two styles do have subtly different flavor profiles.

“Blanc de Blancs tend to be more fresh, lean and bright while Blanc de Noirs tend to be richer, denser and more red fruit driven,” explains Charles-Armand de Belenet, general manager of Champagne Bollinger. However, not all champagnes are made purely from either red or white grapes—indeed, a blend of the two types is very common, so don’t be put off if you don’t see any “Blanc” on your bottle.

Unlike their still counterparts, rosé champagnes are typically made by one of two methods—either allowing the pressed grape juice to sit on the grape skins for a brief period before fermentation, imparting both color and richer berry notes, or by blending the pressed white wine with still red wine. “This adds structure and a unique complexity, intensity and fruitiness to the wine,” says de Belenet.

Vintage

Vintage, as it appears on a champagne bottle, relates to the year in which the grapes in the wine were harvested. Vintage champagne comprises wine made from grapes harvested in the single year noted on the bottle, while non-vintage champagnes are made from wines blended from the harvests of multiple years to create the specific flavor profile the champagne house desires. While vintage champagnes, like vintage still wines, are highly prized for their ability to show off the unique character of a harvest, non-vintage champagne can encapsulate a house’s signature style more completely and consistently (and often at a much lower price point)

Dosage

While vintage and grape types may be immediately evident even to a champagne novice, dosage can seem more daunting to champagne neophites. Dosage relates to the amount of sugars added to the wine to enhance its flavor. “It’s more akin to salting your food than actually making it sweet,”de Belenet says. “The purpose is to achieve harmony and balance.” Dosage designations are noted from the sweetest to the driest: doux, demi-sec, sec, extra-sec, brut, extra brut, and brut nature, also known as non-dosage. Of the types, demi-sec, a sweet dessert style, brut, and extra brut are the most common seen in the US, with brut champagne accounting for 73.9 percent of all champagne shipped to the U.S. in 2017, according to the Champagne Bureau US.

---

.

There are as many opinions out there about the proper glass from which to drink champagne as there are glasses themselves and the differences between them aren’t purely aesthetic. Different glass shapes can drastically effect the flavor and experience of drinking champagne.

---

FLUTE

The most iconic style, of course, is the flute. With its slender bowl and high, tapered walls, a flute glass is designed to show off the bubbles in your bubbly for a picture perfect effect and to preserve the effervescence of your wine through multiple rounds of toasting. The narrow mouth of the glass tends to interfere with the unfolding of the wine’s fragrance notes, and in turn, the complete tasting experience, which makes it an also-ran in the eyes of many wine professionals. Try a flute with a champagne with a more robust nose, or use them to build your champagne cocktails (more on those below).

---

Similar to a flute but with a wider bowl and rim, the tulip is a favorite among many sommeliers and champagne houses. The steep base helps encourage those beautiful, pearl-like trails of bubbles, while a rounder shape allows the wine to open up more fully so you can experience the complete expression of the wine. This is a top choice for vintage champagnes.

COUPE

Supposedly modeled from Marie Antoinette’s breast (there’s no evidence that this is actually true), the coupe has a kitschy appeal that’s equal parts Gatsby-elegant and mid-century mod. It also happens to be on the list of sommelier’s least favorite glasses for champagne due to its wide, shallow bowl which tends to allow both the bubbles and the aroma of the wine to dissipate quickly. If you prefer the look of a coupe, opt for richer, full-bodied champagnes that can tolerate a bit more dissipation.

WHITE WINE GLASS

In recent years, many wine lovers have chosen to forgo the specialty glass debate altogether and treat champagne like its base spirit—white wine. The wider, deeper bowls tapering up to a slightly more narrow rim provide ample room for the champagne’s aromas to unfurl while also directing them up into the nose instead of dissipating them out in to the air. They also have the benefit of being versatile and often more durable than slender champagne glasses. “A white wine glass is always best,”agrees de Belenet.

---

.

Try one of these classic champagne cocktails:

French 75

Ingredients
2 oz gin
.5 oz lemon juice
.25 oz simple syrup
Champagne

Instructions
Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a champagne glass. Top with champagne.

Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients
1 sugar cube
Angostura bitters
4 oz chilled champagne
Lemon zest

Instructions
Soak sugar cube in Angostura bitters, then drop soaked cube into a champagne flute. Pour in champagne. Add strip of lemon zest.

Mimosa

Ingredients
2 oz orange juice
2 oz champagne

Instructions
Pour orange juice into a champagne glass and top with champagne.

Kir Royale

Ingredients
.25 oz Chambord or creme de cassis
Champagne

Instructions
Add Chambord or creme de cassis to a champagne glass and top with champagne.

How to Plan the Ultimate Engagement Party

Congrats! Either you or a loved one is engaged, and you’re ready to celebrate! Luckily for all, there are many pre-wedding events that are designed to honor brides- and grooms-to-be. But there’s one that comes before all of the others, and it was created specifically for this moment. It’s called the engagement party, and if you’re throwing one, you’ll want to make sure that it’s worthy of your love.

To help you plan a fête to remember, we’ve compiled a list of all of the major elements of a great engagement party. The following guide walks you through the steps required to plan the event, and it also provides our top tips and ideas to guarantee that your soirée packs a punch. Our advice serves as an etiquette handbook, too, because we know that you have questions (“Who throws an engagement party?” “Who do you invite?” “What do you wear?”). Luckily, we’ve got the answers, and they’re all based on common engagement party rules.

Read through this comprehensive checklist for tons of protocol, pointers, and inspiration. We’ve covered things that may have slipped your mind (like making sure to facilitate introductions between unfamiliar guests), but that’ll make your attendees have the best experience possible. We’ve also offered our recommendations for making your (and/or your couple’s) involvement easy and—most importantly—fun. Get ready to throw the first of many celebrations before the knot is officially tied, and savor this unique and amazing time while it lasts.

Designate a Host

Step one is deciding who will host the gathering, as that may influence other elements of the event. Often, someone volunteers; otherwise, the couple can ask for help, or else choose to throw the party themselves. They might also have multiple engagement parties with different groups of people, and in that case, there might be multiple hosts. Typically, whoever takes on the role will make most of the decisions and set the budget, though the couple can discuss collaborating.

Pick a Date

Hosts should find a time that’s close to when the couple announces the news to everyone, or they should assemble their nearest and dearest and let them announce the news at the fête. If a host opts for the latter, they should throw it whenever the couple’s comfortable sharing their engagement publicly, but either way, they should also keep guests’ availabilities in mind.

Choose a Location

The location may depend on one or more things, including the theme, the budget, and where everyone lives. Homes and restaurants are popular choices, but hosts can get creative.

Set a Theme

This may come before or after selecting the location, depending on whether or not the theme will influence the venue. It doesn’t have to be similar to the couple’s desired wedding theme or formality—in fact, we recommend that it be different. Hosts can turn to the couple’s hobbies and interests for inspiration, and they should fully commit to whatever’s chosen for a fun and memorable affair. 

Compile a Guest List

Hosts shouldn’t invite anyone who won’t be invited to the wedding. Engagement parties are usually smaller than weddings, too, so if the couple would rather have only their closest family members and friends present, they can go right ahead.

Send Invitations

Stationery’s meant to give celebrants an idea of what the party will be like. All of the important details should be included, like the date, the location, the dress code, and who it’s for! If the couple wants to express that they aren’t expecting gifts, that can be noted here, too. A line like “best wishes only” usually gets the message across. Another fun option is to ask for something that doesn’t require spending, like cards with recipes or date suggestions. 

Enlist Help

Obviously, hosts are responsible for a large portion of the legwork. But other family members and friends can help with things like planning, setup, and cleanup. If it’s in the budget, we also suggest hiring professional help. Couples can hire an engagement photographer to document their party and take their portraits on the same day. Bartenders and other service providers might be worth the bucks, too.  

Plan the Décor

Decorations will depend on the theme, and should suit (and be welcomed by) the venue. Hosts don’t have to go crazy—a few thoughtfully-crafted centerpieces can have a huge impact. Hosts can also crowdsource for things like tableware, or even flowers from someone’s garden.

Set a Soundtrack

Hiring a DJ or band is awesome, but scattering speakers throughout the space or asking the venue to play music both work, too! It’s less about how hosts present tunes (though volume matters, and a playlist made using free streaming services with intermittent ads can be annoying), and more about what they pick. A mix of romantic, upbeat songs will set the right tone. Make sure to add any songs that are meaningful to the couple’s relationship, or music that fits the theme.

Figure Out Food

If the celebration’s at a restaurant, this step is easy. For hosts supplying their own fare, buffets are simple to assemble, and potluck-style gatherings can take some pressure off. Attendees can sign up to bring either an appetizer, a main course, or a dessert, for example. Alternatively, hosts can stick with just small bites and beverages instead of having a sit-down meal. The easiest option is to have the event catered, letting someone else do it all.

Decide on Drinks

A personal favorite? A Champagne tower, which will be especially festive for this party. No matter what you do, make sure that there’s a variety of different options, including plenty of water, soft drinks, and juice boxes, especially when younger guests are invited. When throwing an engagement party away from home, hosts should check in with their venue about what’s allowed and what the venue can provide.

Blue Sparrow Events – Vanna Van Oss

 

A quick note from event extraordinaire Vanna with Blue Sparrow Events 

 

Lately, all I’ve been able to do at night is dream of weddings. Does this happen to anyone else with their job? I feel like I literally plan weddings in my sleep. While I love what I do, I’m starting to think I need to get myself some more hobbies 😅⠀
⠀
Happy Monday evening, my frrannds! I’m Vanna Van Oss (VAN-nuh VAN-aws), founder + principal planner here at Blue Sparrow. I’m an organization queen, a type-A perfectionista, and I’m driven by logistics + aesthetics (fashion, design, interiors, makeup, jewelry – I love the finer details).⠀
⠀
I’d love to hear some of your favorite hobbies for kicking back, unwinding and detaching from work. Give me all the recs you got. What keeps you dreaming peacefully at night?⠀
⠀
Here are some of my current hobbies (In case anyone needs some ideas):⠀
✨ Reading. Right now I’m working on an oldie but a goodie, @valleyofthedollsofficial . ⠀

✨ Cooking. The past few weeks I’ve done @hellofresh because I can’t do anything fancy without a recipe. I love disconnecting from technology and making a mess in the kitchen. And for being a type-a perfectionist, my kitchen looks like a war zone after cooking 🙃⠀

✨ Netflix. Cause duh. I just started watching the second season of @makingamurderer. I choke up every episode because I feel so thankful and grateful for my life I get to live. When I think about it, I’m actually grateful to have the problem of dreaming about weddings every night cause it means I have a job (I love) and I know some people don’t have that. ⠀

✨ Bootcamp. I’m a huge HIIT fanatic. @heatbootcamp keeps me fit and sweating. Working out has become such a source of life and the perfect end to a day of sitting behind a computer answering emails 😛 ⠀

✨Yoga. This is new for me, ya’ll! I felt like I wanted to add a slower, more relaxing form of stress-relief while also working on my mobility (lol makes me feel like a grandma). I’ve been to @blackswanyogaaustin twice in the past week and am in love. So now I’m trying to figure out how I’m going to budget two unlimited studio memberships 🧐
.
📷 @ashleyslaterphotography