George Boyle
Whether it's a summer or winter wedding, drinks are an important part of the celebration. While some couples opt for an open bar, others prefer to offer a signature drink or cocktail. For winter weddings, hot drinks like Irish coffee, hot toddies, and hot buttered rum are popular choices to warm up guests. In contrast, summer weddings might feature refreshing cocktails like mimosas, bellinis, or a signature drink with a raspberry and lemonade crowd-pleaser. Non-alcoholic options are also essential, with mocktails, chai lattes, hot chocolates, and iced tea providing alternatives for non-drinkers or those taking a break from alcohol.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hot drinks at weddings | Hot drinks are popular at winter weddings |
| Types of hot drinks | Hot cocktails, hot chocolate, chai latte, mulled non-alcoholic cocktails, Irish coffee, hot toddies, hot buttered rum |
| Alcoholic hot drinks | Baileys, whiskey, Amaretto, Frangelico, coconut rum, coffee liqueur, creme de menthe, gin, dark rum, champagne, red wine, vodka, bourbon, white wine, gin, rum, beer |
| Non-alcoholic hot drinks | Mocktails, chai latte, hot chocolate, mulled non-alcoholic cocktails |
| Purpose | To warm up guests, to add a personal touch, to cater to non-drinkers |
| Considerations | Glassware (use insulated, compostable disposable cups, mugs, or Irish coffee glasses), temperature (serve warm rather than boiling hot to avoid cracking glassware), seasonality, guest preferences |
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What You'll Learn
Hot cocktails for winter weddings
There are many ways to keep your guests warm and cosy during a winter wedding, and hot cocktails are a great way to do this. From warm and spicy to sweet and indulgent, there is a hot cocktail to suit every winter wedding.
A classic winter cocktail, hot buttered rum is a great choice for a winter wedding. Dark rum, butter, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg create a moreish combination. You could also add a modern twist to a traditional hot toddy, which is usually made with bourbon, by adding rum or brandy. For a festive twist, top with a toasted marshmallow.
For something a little different, a Mexican hot chocolate cocktail adds a hint of spice with tequila, cinnamon and cayenne, or you could set up a hot chocolate station and let your guests spike their drink with a spirit of their choice. A warm Spanish coffee is another great option to keep guests toasty, and the final flambé finish will be a showstopper.
For a festive take on a classic, a warm cinnamon Old Fashioned is a great choice, or you could add hot water to whiskey for a warming toddy. Mulled wine is also a versatile winter cocktail, and you can add a variety of spirits and garnishes to suit your taste.
Don't forget to provide some non-alcoholic options too, such as a mocktail, chai latte or hot chocolate.
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Alcoholic hot drinks
Hot drinks are a great way to warm up your guests at a winter wedding. Here are some ideas for alcoholic hot drinks to serve at your wedding:
Hot Toddy
A classic hot toddy is a great option for a wedding drink. It is a simple drink to make, and you can get creative with different variations. For example, you could try a caramel and apple hot toddy, or even a hot toddy with a twist of lemon.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a festive favourite and a great choice for a winter wedding. It can be made in big batches and served as a welcome drink or nightcap.
Hot Buttered Rum
This drink is a perfect after-dinner treat, combining dark rum, butter, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. It is a comforting and moreish choice for a cold winter wedding.
Irish Coffee
Irish coffee is another excellent option to warm your guests throughout the reception. You could even set up a whipped cream station to let guests customise their drinks.
Boozy Chai
For something a little different, try a boozy chai. This cocktail blends dark rum with chai tea and honey, creating a cosy and comforting drink.
When planning your wedding drinks, it is important to consider the season and your guests' preferences. You may also want to offer non-alcoholic options, such as hot chocolate or chai latte, so that everyone can enjoy a warm drink.
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Non-alcoholic hot drinks
When it comes to hot drinks at weddings, it's important to cater to a range of tastes and preferences, including non-alcoholic options for those who don't drink or are taking a break from alcohol. Here are some ideas for non-alcoholic hot drinks that will keep your guests warm and cosy:
Chai Latte
A chai latte is a perfect option for a winter wedding. It's a comforting and cosy drink that can be made in large batches. You can set up a chai latte station, allowing guests to customise their drinks with additional spices, honey, or milk alternatives.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a classic choice for wedding guests of all ages. Set up a hot chocolate station with various toppings and add-ins, such as marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, or cinnamon sticks. This can be a fun and interactive experience for your guests.
Mulled Non-Alcoholic Cider
For a festive and fragrant option, consider serving mulled non-alcoholic cider. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit and can be served in insulated mugs or compostable cups. Add spices like cinnamon and cloves to enhance the flavour and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Herbal Tea
Offering a variety of herbal teas can be a simple yet effective way to cater to different tastes. Include classic options like chamomile and peppermint, as well as more unique flavours like ginger-turmeric or lemon-ginger tea. Provide honey and lemon slices as add-ins, allowing guests to customise their cups.
Iced Tea
While typically served cold, iced tea can also be offered in its hot form, providing a caffeine-free option for guests. Set up an iced tea station with different flavours, such as classic black tea, fruity hibiscus, or floral jasmine tea. Provide sweeteners and lemon slices on the side for guests to adjust to their taste.
Remember to offer a variety of non-alcoholic options to ensure all your guests feel included and well-catered for. These hot drink ideas will surely warm the hearts (and hands!) of your guests, creating a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience.
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Hot drinks stations
If you're looking to include a hot drinks station at your wedding, there are several options to consider. Firstly, decide on the type of hot drinks you'd like to offer. Here are some ideas:
Hot Chocolate Bar
Set up a hot chocolate station for your guests to enjoy, especially during the colder months. You can provide various toppings and add-ins, such as marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, and cinnamon sticks. For an adult twist, offer a selection of liqueurs, such as Baileys, Frangelico, or crème de menthe, so guests can spike their hot chocolate.
Tea and Coffee Station
Offer a variety of tea blends and freshly brewed coffee for a comforting and aromatic experience. Provide milk, sugar, and other sweeteners on the side, along with flavoured syrups for an extra touch. Don't forget to have decaffeinated options for those who prefer them.
Hot Cocktails
For a festive and indulgent affair, serve hot cocktails like Irish coffee, hot toddies, or hot buttered rum. These drinks are perfect for warming up your guests and can be served in insulated mugs or disposable cups. You can even set up a whipped cream station for an extra touch of decadence.
Chai Latte Bar
Create a cosy corner with a chai latte station, offering a range of chai tea blends and milk options. For a boozy twist, suggest a dash of rum or whiskey, providing a comforting and unique hot drink option for your guests.
When planning your hot drinks station, consider the following:
- Seasonality and Weather: Choose hot drinks that align with the season and weather. Hot drinks are particularly appealing during winter weddings.
- Guest Preferences: Offer a range of options, including non-alcoholic and caffeinated choices, to cater to different tastes and preferences.
- Timing: Consider the flow of your wedding and the best time to introduce the hot drinks station. For example, a post-ceremony, pre-dinner hot chocolate station can be a delightful treat.
- Presentation: Present your hot drinks station with style, using decorative mugs, cute stirrers, and creative signage.
- Quantity and Budget: Use wedding drink calculators to determine how much of each drink ingredient you'll need and factor this into your budget.
A hot drinks station can be a wonderful addition to your wedding, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy.
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Hot drinks for all seasons
For couples planning their wedding, deciding on the drinks to serve can be a fun but challenging task. From hot drinks to cool cocktails, the options are endless. Here are some ideas for hot drinks that are perfect for any season:
Hot Drinks for Cold Weather Weddings
If you're having a winter wedding, offering hot drinks is a great way to warm up your guests. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Hot chocolate: Set up a hot chocolate station with a variety of toppings and liqueurs, such as Baileys, whiskey, or Amaretto, for guests to spike their drink.
- Hot toddies: A classic hot toddy is a perfect warm-up drink, and you can offer variations, such as caramel and apple.
- Irish coffee: Irish coffee is a great option for guests who prefer coffee-based drinks. Set up a whipped cream station and let guests pick their spirit of choice.
- Buttered rum: This comforting cocktail blends dark rum with chai tea and honey, and it's perfect for making in big batches.
- Mulled wine: A warm, spiced drink that is perfect for winter. Offer your guests a cup of mulled wine as they arrive to set the festive tone.
Hot Drinks for Any Season
Some hot drinks are versatile and can be enjoyed all year round. Here are some ideas:
- Signature hot cocktails: Create a unique hot cocktail that reflects your personality as a couple. This could be a twist on a classic, like a hot gin toddy or a rum-based cocktail with spices and citrus.
- Chai latte: A chai latte is a comforting drink that can be enjoyed hot or iced. It's a great option for guests who don't consume alcohol or are looking for a caffeine boost.
- Tea and coffee: Offering a selection of teas and coffee is always a good idea, as some guests may prefer a simple hot drink. Include a variety of tea blends and coffee options to cater to different tastes.
When planning your wedding drinks, it's important to consider your guests' preferences and any cultural traditions you want to incorporate. Don't forget to include non-alcoholic options and plenty of water to keep your guests hydrated!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, hot drinks can be served at weddings. In fact, it is recommended to serve at least one hot cocktail at outdoor weddings in chilly weather.
Hot toddies, hot buttered rum, Irish coffee, and spiked hot cocoa are all great options for hot drinks at weddings.
Yes, absolutely! It is recommended to offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks at weddings, including hot options such as tea.
There are many other drinks that can be served at weddings, including cocktails, wine, beer, and champagne.
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