A new trend for weddings is the upgrading of the cocktail hour. No longer are guests being herded into an extra space to wait until the couple is done with photos and the reception is set. Cocktail hour is now an official part of the wedding day where guests are being treated to specialty drinks, passed hors d’oeuvres and live entertainment.
Custom cocktails are leading the way in wow factor elements for beverage service during cocktail hour. Based on the layout of the venue, it does not always make sense to have an additional full bar set up for cocktail hour. Instead, couples are opting for the ease of beer and wine or the creation of specialty drinks. Offer a his & her cocktail option, give it a clever name, and let the guests enjoy the wait.
The cocktail hour also gives the couple the opportunity to design the space and add ambiance to their venue. Hightop tables with designer linens and soft seating are fabulous options. Many guests enjoy the luxury of a styled lounge setting and the cocktail space is the perfect locale. Guests can rest easy and enjoy their beverages and small bites as family photos are wrapping up. These vignettes also provide a great photo opportunity.
Live entertainment has taken on a whole new meaning in the wedding industry in the last year or so. Music has always been the main focus as couples bring in acoustic trios, string quartets, or have a small DJ setup during their cocktail hour. But consider other entertainment options such as a silent disco party or mariachi bands. Photo booths are always popular and there are now a wide variety of options to capture those fun poses. Playing old movies or highlight videos is another form of entertainment to share with your guests.
The hour or so between the end of the ceremony and the start of the reception was once the “no man’s land” for wedding guests. It is now a significant part of the day that the bride and groom are making magical for their guests. What innovative ideas are you going to bring to your guests during cocktail hour?
Photography Credit: Laning Photography