Planning your big day is a lot to take on and the cocktail hour probably isn’t your biggest concern. We get that. But, hear us out… The cocktail hour is important. It’s the intermission between the ceremony and the reception. It’s when your best man or maid of honor will get all socially lubricated before they get to make an equally emotional and embarrassing toast, and when you’ll get to change into more comfortable clothes. Woot! So, here are a few tips for making your cocktail hour extra special.
1. Have a signature wedding cocktail.
You know how celebrity couples get a celebrity couple nickname? Well, this is kind of like that, except with alcohol involved. Get creative! Talk to your Bartender about using your first names, last names, nicknames, or wedding theme to come up with your very own signature cocktail. For example, if your new last name is Baker, you could offer the Baker Bellini or the Baker’s Man(hattan). Or, you could just stick with a general wedding theme. We won’t judge if your “something blue” is Blue Curaçao, we promise.
2. Comfortable seating is a must.
This is the time for your wedding guests to mix and mingle. Having comfortable, inviting seating will instantly put your guests at ease and allow for ultimate relaxation. Plus, the grandmas and grandpas will appreciate the cozy resting space!
3. Offer snacks.
Whether you opt for passed hors d’oeuvres or a buffet table, offering food to your guests is always appreciated. Since this is the time to float around the party talking to everyone, we recommend going with simple finger foods with easy cleanup. This will hold your guests over until dinner is served at the reception! Discuss the details with your caterer to create the perfect cocktail hour menu.
4. Keep them entertained.
Giving your guests something to focus on helps take away the pressure to make small talk, especially if your guests don’t really know each other. You can keep it simple with a string trio or pianist to add some ambiance. Take it up a notch with a strolling magician, juggler, or even a belly dancer! Your guests will love the added fun to a sometimes stuffy event. For other local wedding entertainment options, visit GigSalad!
The only thing harder than holding a full martini glass without any spills is doing it with a four-year-old trying to climb up your leg. Kids are adorable and all, sure, but the cocktail hour is for the adults. Keep the kiddos busy by setting up an arts and crafts table just for them! They can even make a special wedding gift for the newlyweds. How cute is that?
5. Make an appearance!
We know that many couples take this time to have a photo shoot with their photographer. If you can, it’s great to make an appearance at the cocktail hour. Take some photos, change, do what you need to do. Wedding days are hectic and you’ll never be able to be in all of the places you want to be at once. It’s essential to find a balance, and that will vary from couple to couple. But, take a moment to kick back with your loved ones and enjoy a cocktail in your honor! They’re here to celebrate your love and there’s no one they’d rather clink glasses with.
Wishing you a beautiful wedding and a lifetime of happiness, from all of us at GigSalad!