As couples celebrate their special day, incorporating a personalized touch has become an integral part of modern wedding traditions. One such trend is the introduction of a signature wedding cocktail that guests can enjoy throughout the celebration. This unique offering may be a beloved drink shared by the couple themselves, a vibrant concoction matching the wedding’s theme, or even a cleverly named libation highlighting aspects of the union or relationship.
From refreshing twists on classic cocktails to bespoke creations tailored specifically for the big day, couples have an abundance of signature cocktail ideas to draw from. Whether you choose to reimagine a timeless favorite with a fresh flavor profile and thematic moniker, or craft a custom drink exclusive to your wedding, there’s something to suit every taste.
Below, we’ve curated our top picks for wedding signature cocktails and inspiration to elevate the ambiance at your reception.
The Best Wedding Signature Cocktails
As the sun sets on your special day, a perfectly crafted cocktail can elevate the atmosphere and bring loved ones together. With an array of options to suit every taste, from sweet and indulgent to crisp and refreshing, it’s easier than ever to find a signature drink that reflects your wedding’s unique personality. Consider incorporating a signature cocktail that mirrors your theme, commemorates a special moment in your relationship, or even complements the colors of your big day.
Kentucky Strawberry Lemonade
When it comes to crafting the perfect beverage for a rustic or country-themed wedding, why not draw inspiration from the Bluegrass State itself? A Kentucky strawberry lemonade is an ideal choice, as it combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of lemonade. To give it a sophisticated twist, add a splash of bourbon or your preferred whiskey and garnish with a fresh strawberry slice. The result is a refreshing drink that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Aperol Spritz
Elevate your special day with a timeless twist: the Aperol spritz. This refreshing concoction boasts a subtle sweetness and a vibrant orange hue, making it an excellent choice for a wedding celebration. To put your unique spin on things, consider infusing the drink with various fruits or cocktail mixers that reflect your personal style and wedding theme.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule’s iconic combination of ginger beer and lime takes on a new level of sophistication when infused with cranberries. This refreshing twist makes for an ideal choice to toast at a winter or holiday wedding, its festive flair guaranteed to delight your guests.
Rosemary Gin and Tonic
Add a twist to the classic gin and tonic by incorporating fresh herbs into your wedding cocktails. For couples who can’t imagine their special day without a G&T in hand, consider infusing the drink with rosemary for a subtle shift from its traditional sweetness. A sprig of rosemary will not only complement the wedding’s greenery decor but also provide a refreshing and unique flavor profile that will leave your guests talking.
Coconut Margarita
Give your margarita game a tropical twist by crafting a coconut margarita. The possibilities are endless – serve it slushy and chilled, over ice for a refreshing twist, or take it to the next level by serving it in a hollowed-out coconut shell if you’re feeling extra festive!
Mai Tai
Imagine sipping on the Mai Tai, a timeless tiki cocktail that exudes tropical flair, at your dreamy beachside wedding or a whimsical destination celebration. This iconic drink is sure to transport your guests to a paradise of flavor and fun. To elevate the experience, serve it in a chilled glass or garnish with fresh pineapple, oranges, or cherries for an added touch of elegance.
Gin Sour
Give the classic whiskey sour a refreshing makeover by swapping out the whiskey for gin. The result is a crisp and citrusy drink that’s perfect for warm weather events like spring weddings or brunches. The pale yellow hue of the gin sour will beautifully complement pastel color schemes, making it an ideal choice for springtime celebrations.
Summer Negroni
Give your signature wedding cocktail a refreshing summer spin by infusing the classic Negroni with the sweet and tangy flavors of muddled blackberries. The resulting drink will boast a stunning purple hue that perfectly complements any summer-themed celebration. This unique twist on a timeless cocktail is sure to delight your guests and leave them talking long after the sun sets.
Mint Julep
A timeless choice, the mint julep is an excellent option for any occasion. Its classic appeal makes it easy to incorporate into your ‘Mint To Be’ theme, while its refreshing flavor and vibrant green hue also make it a great match for your existing decor, particularly if you’ve incorporated golden yellow accents.
Pink Lemonade Mimosas
When it comes to crafting the perfect wedding cocktails, couples often turn to timeless favorites like pink lemonade mimosas. Whether you’re planning a champagne-filled celebration or simply want to incorporate a touch of elegance into your big day, these refreshing drinks are sure to delight your guests. With their sweet and tangy flavor profile, pink lemonade mimosas are the perfect choice for a wedding that’s as lovely as it is lively.
Blackberry Spritz
Indulge in a refreshing twist on classic cocktails by trying your hand at a blackberry spritz. This vibrant concoction combines the deep purple hue of blackberries with the effervescence of club soda, the crispness of vodka, and the zesty essence of lime, leaving room for you to get creative with additional mix-ins. The result is a visually stunning and tantalizing drink that’s sure to delight your senses.
Bourbon Peach Smash
Infuse the warmth of the South into every sip with a twist of peach and a hint of mint. The subtle sweetness of peaches pairs perfectly with the richness of bourbon, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Whether you’re sipping solo or sharing with friends, this refreshing blend is sure to become your new favorite summer treat.
Lavender Collins
Transform the traditional Tom Collins cocktail by incorporating the floral essence of lavender. The resulting Lavender Collins is an invigorating and revitalizing drink, making it an ideal choice for sipping on a sunny afternoon. To elevate its presentation, add a squeeze of lemon and a delicate sprig of lavender as a garnish, allowing the subtle aromas to unfold with each sip.
Autumn Apple Sangria
When envisioning a picturesque fall wedding, there’s no better way to toast the occasion than with a glass of Autumn Apple Sangria. This unique take on traditional sangria combines crisp white wine with the warmth of brandy or caramel vodka, plus an abundance of crunchy apples. The result is a refreshing and fruity drink that perfectly captures the essence of the autumn season.
Spiked Agua Fresca
In Mexico and Central America, agua fresca is a beloved beverage that’s often enjoyed without a hint of liquor. However, this refreshing drink can also be elevated with the addition of spirits. For instance, a splash of tequila or white rum can transform it into a festive cocktail perfect for a tropical wedding or other celebration. This twist adds a new dimension to the traditional recipe, making it an exciting and unique choice for special occasions.
Honey Bourbon Cider
As the mercury drops, the art of crafting cider-based cocktails has taken center stage in the world of mixology. This sweet and tangy honey bourbon cider is the perfect elixir to keep guests cozy at an autumn or winter wedding. To elevate this drink further, simply top it off with a splash of sparkling cider for a refreshing twist that’s sure to please.
Pomegranate Margarita
While margaritas are indeed a crowd-pleaser, there’s no reason why you can’t create a unique signature wedding cocktail that reflects your personal style. Consider swapping out the traditional lime juice for pomegranate puree, which adds a rich, fruity flavor and an eye-catching deep red hue to the drink. This twist will not only delight your guests but also make for a stunning visual at cocktail hour or during the reception.
Grapefruit Mojito
Elevate the classic mojito experience by introducing a bold twist: incorporate grapefruit juice into your recipe. This variation not only adds a pop of color to the drink, but also brings a subtle sweetness without sacrificing its refreshing essence. The result is a mojito that’s both familiar and innovative, perfect for those seeking a new adventure in mixology.
Gin and Lemonade Punch
Transform your ordinary gatherings into extraordinary ones with a refreshing signature drink that’s sure to please: gin and lemonade punch! To make this delightful concoction, combine lemons and orange slices in abundance, either by the pitcher for a crowd or by the glass for an individual treat. For an added touch of sophistication, consider adding cucumber slices to lighten the flavor even further.
Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard gathering or a more formal soiree, this drink is sure to keep your guests happy and hydrated on warm days.
Vodka Gimlet
While the classic gimlet typically features gin, those who prefer vodka can still enjoy a delightful variation. In fact, a vodka gimlet made with vodka, fresh lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup offers a lighter, equally appealing alternative. This refreshing concoction is sure to hit the spot for vodka enthusiasts.
Aviation
For couples planning a whimsical wedding, the Aviation cocktail is an elegant choice. This timeless drink boasts a beautiful light purple color, courtesy of creme de violette, maraschino juice, and lemon. The unique flavor profile makes it an excellent match for a romantic celebration, as its subtle sweetness and tanginess will delight your guests.
Sea Breeze
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the sea breeze, a timeless favorite that’s sure to delight. This refreshing concoction combines the tartness of cranberry, the tanginess of grapefruit, the zesty bite of lime, and the smooth sophistication of vodka, resulting in a fruity and irresistible drink that’s perfect for sipping with friends.
Gin Berry Fizz
Elevate the celebration of love by crafting a bespoke signature wedding drink that’s as delightful as it is easy to make. Consider whipping up a refreshing gin berry fizz, where you can select your preferred berry – raspberry, strawberry, blackberry, or any other variety that tickles your fancy – and combine it with gin, then top it off with club soda or Prosecco for an added touch of sophistication.
Kir Royale
While the Kir Royale might not be as well-known as some other classic cocktails, its unique blend of flavors makes it an excellent choice for a wedding celebration. The combination of champagne, crème de cassis, and fresh raspberries creates a sophisticated yet approachable drink that’s sure to impress your guests. Its bold red hue also lends itself perfectly to making memorable toasts on the big day.
Strawberry Spritzer
Add a touch of whimsy to your wedding celebration by crafting refreshing strawberry spritzers. This delightful cocktail can be tailored to your taste buds’ preferences by substituting your preferred base spirit – whether you’re in the mood for vodka, gin, or rum.
Caramel Appletini
As the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing that screams ‘fall wedding’ more than the warm, comforting taste of caramel apples. Why not take this classic treat to the next level by turning it into a caramel appletini? While it may be on the sweeter side, when crafted just right, this unique cocktail is sure to delight both sweet-tooths and non-sweet-tooths alike.
Classic Daiquiri
While the daiquiri may not be as flashy as some of its frozen counterparts, it’s actually a rather underrated classic cocktail. Made with just three ingredients – rum, lime juice, and simple syrup – this refreshing drink is a masterclass in simplicity. To elevate it to signature status for your wedding or special occasion, consider serving it in a sleek coupe glass, which will add an air of sophistication to the proceedings.
Hot Toddy
To kick-start the festivities at your winter wedding, why not treat your guests to a warm and cozy twist? Serving hot toddies as your signature cocktail can be a fantastic way to get everyone in the mood. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also perfect for sipping on while enjoying the crisp outdoor atmosphere. The combination of whiskey, spices, and citrus is sure to put a smile on your guests’ faces and keep them warm and toasty as you celebrate your special day.
Bee’s Knees
The charming phrase ‘a bee’s knees’ has become synonymous with a drink that’s truly exceptional – the A Bee’s Knees. Despite its vintage reputation, this classic cocktail remains a timeless favourite, thanks to its harmonious blend of gin, lemon, and honey.
French 75
The French 75 is a timeless and revitalizing cocktail that showcases the harmonious union of gin and lemon. Comprising just four ingredients – gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar – this pale yellow libation exudes elegance and refreshment.
Paloma
Kick off your next gathering with the vibrant Paloma cocktail. Its refreshing blend of tequila and citrus flavors makes it an ideal choice for warm-weather celebrations, such as those in the spring or summer. The subtle hint of grapefruit adds a delightful twist to this timeless drink.
Berry Delicious Sangria
Treat your guests to a beloved classic – berry-infused sangria! This crowd-pleasing recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries, the tartness of blueberries, and the earthiness of blackberries with the richness of red wine. The result is a refreshing and fruity twist on traditional sangria that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Whiskey Smash
Transforming traditional whiskey into a refreshing treat for your wedding guests, combining it with lemon, mint, and a touch of sweetness through simple syrup, yields a delightful whiskey smash. Its simplicity belies its crowd-pleasing appeal, making it an excellent choice for any nuptial celebration.
Cosmopolitan
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, or for any other sophisticated celebration, consider serving a stylish Cosmopolitan cocktail at your wedding reception. The drink’s signature pink color is sure to add a touch of glamour, while the classic martini glass and subtle orange twist garnish will elevate the presentation. It’s the perfect choice for a memorable and elegant affair.
Bellini
For a celebratory twist on traditional brunch cocktails, look no further than the Bellini. This classic drink is a popular choice for wedding celebrations, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The beauty of the Bellini lies in its simplicity – all you need to get started are two essential ingredients: peach puree and Prosecco.
Boozy Blackberry Lemonade
On hot summer days, there’s no better way to quench thirst than with a refreshing twist on classic lemonade. Our boozy blackberry lemonade recipe combines the sweetness of blackberries, the tanginess of lemons, and the cooling essence of mint. And the best part? You can customize it to your taste by choosing your favorite liquor.
Champagne Cocktail
Champagne cocktails have long been a staple in the world of mixology. The classic recipe for this delightful beverage combines just four ingredients: bitters, sugar, champagne, and a hint of citrus zest, typically in the form of lemon or orange. While its simplicity belies its sophistication, the result is undeniably delicious.
Spiked Sweet Tea
Kick off your outdoor gathering with a twist on the classic Southern staple – sweet tea. Infuse your guests’ drinking experiences by mixing their favorite spirits with a sweet tea recipe, creating the ultimate refreshing drink for a cocktail hour. The addition of sweet tea vodka takes this timeless treat to new heights, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
How To Choose a Signature Drink for Your Wedding
Choosing a signature cocktail for your special day can be a daunting task. Not only do you need to consider your personal preferences, but also those of your guests. To make the decision easier, take into account the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of your wedding, including the theme, color palette, and flavor profiles. By doing so, you’ll be able to create a cocktail that not only reflects your own tastes, but also one that will delight and impress your loved ones on your big day.
Match Your Color Scheme
When it comes to crafting signature wedding drinks, why not make them truly unique by matching their colors to your special day’s palette? From vibrant reds and pinks to bright yellows and purples, our collection of drink ideas offers a rainbow of options. And the best part? You don’t need food coloring to get the job done! Nature has provided an array of ingredients that can add pops of color to your cocktails, from juicy fruits and herbs to sun-kissed spices and botanicals.
Take it a step further by selecting garnishes that match your color scheme or opting for non-edible extras like drink umbrellas or paper flowers to add an extra touch of whimsy.
His and Hers Drinks
Stuck between choosing one signature drink or another? Why not cater to both the bride’s and groom’s tastes by offering his and hers specialty cocktails? This approach allows you to showcase each of their unique preferences while also giving your guests a delightful array of options to indulge in. Plus, it adds an extra layer of personalization to your celebration.
