Trendspotting: Pre-Ceremony Drinks

You may have noticed that signature cocktails have become an increasingly popular way to add an element of personalization to a wedding or special event. A favorite drink named after the bride and groom, or a perhaps a unique drink created solely to reflect the color palette of the event, this clever trend gives couples yet another way to express their creativity on their wedding day.

With the advent of this focus on wedding beverages, a new way to welcome guests to your celebration has emerged: many brides and grooms are now providing pre-ceremony drinks. This can be a great way to entertain guests as they’re waiting for the ceremony to begin and helps to set the tone for the festivities to come. Pre-ceremony drinks are more commonly served at outdoor ceremonies held in a garden, park, beach, or private property, and are especially refreshing during the hot summer months.

Below are some ideas to incorporate this emerging trend into your wedding plans.

Lemonade
A favorite among guests of all ages, lemonade is the perfect summer wedding beverage. Serving it with delicious fruit accents such as raspberry, strawberry, or pomegranate can go even further to highlight the details of your event.

(photo source: Verdi Photography)

(photo source: http://www.oncewed.com/)

Soda Bars
Allow your guests to create their own refreshing concoctions by setting up a beverage station featuring a variety of soft drinks and flavored syrups. Like a classic fountain soda shop, the sky is the limit. From Vanilla Coke to Cherry 7-Up, guests will love having these tasty options.

(photo source: unknown)

Hot Cider/Hot Cocoa
Perfect for a crisp autumn wedding day, these comforting drinks will hit the spot with guests as they gather to witness your marriage. For an added touch, embellish mugs of cider with whole cinnamon sticks, or garnish cocoa with marshamallows in the shape of your initials. Either way, these beverages will prepare your guests for a warm, intimate celebration.

(photo source: The Inn at Buck Hollow Farms)

(photo source: TweetSweet)

Mimosas/Bellinis
A traditional staple at Sunday brunches, these beverages are also a great option for a light pre-ceremony cocktail. Champagne is synonymous with celebration – why not add a splash of orange or pineapple juice to make it even more festive?

(photo source: Southern Fancy)

(photo source: unknown)

Cheers!