Signature Cocktails: To Mix Or Not To Mix At Your Wedding?

Signature drinks are a fun and creative way to express your style and give your guests a memorable treat at your wedding. They can be a thoughtful way to make your event unique and allow you to express your passions through the ingredients, presentation, and names. However, some people argue that they are unnecessary and can be a waste of money. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether or not to have a signature drink at your wedding.

Signature drinks can be a waste of money

While signature drinks at weddings can be a fun and creative way to express the couple's style and personality, there are several reasons why they can also be a waste of money.

Firstly, signature drinks can be expensive, especially if you have a large guest list. Creating custom drinks often requires purchasing a variety of specialized ingredients, and the cost can add up quickly. This is especially true if you plan to serve a fully stocked open bar in addition to your signature drinks.

Secondly, there is a chance that your signature drinks may not be as popular as you expect. Some guests may take them out of courtesy but then set them down and get a drink of their own preference. This can lead to a lot of waste, especially if the signature drinks are premixed, as many venues charge for what is poured, whether it is consumed or not.

Thirdly, signature drinks can be time-consuming to make, especially if they have multiple ingredients or require special preparation. This can slow down the bar service, causing longer lines and frustrated guests. Unless the drink is a staple that people are familiar with, they may not want to spend time at the bar reading about and waiting for a signature cocktail.

Additionally, signature drinks may not be as memorable as you think. While they can add a unique touch, most guests are more likely to remember the overall atmosphere, decor, and experiences at your wedding rather than a specific drink.

Instead of spending a lot of money on signature drinks, you could opt for a more cost-effective option, such as offering a limited selection of beer and wine or choosing a single spirit and allowing guests to create their own drinks. This way, you can save money and still offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes.

In conclusion, while signature drinks can add a special touch to your wedding, they may not be worth the extra expense. It is important to carefully consider your budget, guest preferences, and the potential impact on the overall flow of your reception before deciding whether to offer signature drinks.

Guests may prefer to drink what they like

While signature drinks are a fun way to personalise your wedding, it's important to remember that guests may prefer to drink what they like.

Signature cocktails are often chosen because they look cute, but they can be a waste of money. Guests may take them as a courtesy, but then put them down and get their own drink. It's also unrealistic that everyone will have a signature cocktail that they drink all the time or that has significance to your relationship.

If you're going to serve a signature drink, it needs to be a staple that people would actually order, like a margarita or a whiskey sour. It's also important to consider the cost. Signature drinks are often pre-mixed, so venues have to charge you for what they pour, whether people drink it or not. You could take that money and put it into your food or music budget instead.

If you want to offer a signature drink that's more personalised, consider serving it alongside an open bar for beer and wine. This is a popular compromise, but remember that it will still be an added cost.

Ultimately, guests want to drink what they like, so it's a good idea to provide a range of options. You could even skip the signature drink altogether and simply add rosé to your bar menu, as it's well-received, visually attractive, and an amazing summer drink.

Signature drinks can be time-consuming

Firstly, creating signature drinks that are reflective of you and your partner can be a challenge. It can be difficult to find a drink that captures your style, personalities, and tastes in a single cocktail. This process can involve a lot of trial and error, as you experiment with different ingredients and flavours to find the perfect combination.

Additionally, signature drinks often require special ingredients or preparation methods, which can be time-consuming for your bartenders or mixologists. If you're serving a large number of guests, preparing individual signature drinks can be a lengthy process, especially if the drink has multiple steps or ingredients. This can lead to longer wait times at the bar and frustrated guests.

Furthermore, signature drinks may not always be well-received by your guests. While they can be a fun and unique option, some guests may prefer to stick to their usual drink of choice. As a result, signature drinks may go to waste, especially if they are not to your guests' tastes. This can be a costly mistake, as you may end up spending more on ingredients and preparation than you would with a simpler bar menu.

Another consideration is the time and effort required to serve signature drinks. If you're serving a large number of guests, it can be challenging to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to try the signature drink. This may involve passing drinks or setting up a self-serve station, which can be time-consuming and may take away from other aspects of your wedding.

Lastly, signature drinks may not be the most memorable part of your wedding. While they can be a fun addition, they may not be what your guests remember most about your special day. Other elements, such as the ceremony, décor, or entertainment, may have a more lasting impact on your guests.

While signature drinks can add a unique touch to your wedding, it's important to consider the time and effort involved in their creation and service. They may not be the best option for every couple or every wedding, and it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Signature drinks are not memorable

While a signature drink might seem like a fun idea, it is unlikely to be a memorable part of your wedding. Guests will be focused on celebrating with you and each other, not on the drinks being served.

In fact, signature drinks can actually be a waste of money. Often, guests will take them as a courtesy and then set them down to get a drink they actually want. This means that you will have paid for drinks that go untouched.

Instead of a signature drink, consider putting that money towards something your guests will actually enjoy and remember, like the food or music.

If you are set on having a signature drink, make sure it is something people will actually want to drink. Classic cocktails like margaritas or whiskey sours are a safe bet. You could also offer a limited open bar, allowing guests to request any type of mixed drink without the added cost of an unlimited bar.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you and your partner. If you have your heart set on a signature drink, go for it! But if you are looking for ways to make your wedding memorable, there are probably more effective ways to spend your money.

Signature drinks can be served in large batches to save money

Signature drinks can be a fun way to express your style and give guests a memorable treat at your wedding. They can also help reinforce the wedding's overall mood and aesthetic, and give guests exciting new photo opportunities.

One of the main benefits of serving signature drinks in large batches is that it will save you money. If you're supplying the drinks for a large group, you'll need to purchase all the alcohol and beverages required to make individual cocktails, and a lot of it will be wasted. By contrast, a large batch of a signature cocktail allows for optimal purchasing and planning efficiency, saving both time and money.

Another benefit of serving a signature drink is that it makes bar ordering more efficient. Guests don't have to waste time deciding what they want; they can simply opt for the signature drink and get back to the party.

If you're serving a signature cocktail with a high ABV, it's a good idea to offer a low-ABV backup, like a spritz. This will also help you save money, as you won't need to buy as much of the ingredients for the signature cocktail.

• Strawberry Rosé Punch
• Fizzy Sangria
• Lavender Blackberry Old Fashioneds
• White Wine Sangria
• Warm Cider and Rum Punch
• Fresh Watermelon Mojitos
• Spiked Sorbet Punch
• Three-Ingredient Margaritas
• Fresh Fruit Slush

Frequently asked questions