Discover how to choose a signature cocktail that reflects your personality, complements your menu, and leaves a lasting impression on your guests. This guide will walk you through creative ideas, planning tips, and expert advice to help you raise a glass in style.
Signature drinks are having a moment, and for good reason! Not only are they a fun, refreshing and easy way to incorporate your personalities and tastes into your wedding reception, but they help reduce alcohol costs. Signature drinks create a relaxed atmosphere by making the post-ceremony bar rush a little less hectic since they are prepared and displayed in mass quantities ahead of time.
Photo credit: Constellation Culinary Group
However, with so many different cocktails to choose from, how does one go about narrowing it down? Here are some tips to pick the perfect signature drink for your Philadelphia wedding.
What You’ll Learn About Crafting the Perfect Signature Wedding Drink
Photo credit: Loch Aerie Mansion/Serock Catering/Nicole Catherine Photography
Stir in Some Signature Style
Why not choose a beverage that reflects you as a couple or has special meaning? Perhaps it’s a drink you discovered on your first vacation together. Maybe you have the same favorite drink (or, instead prefer “his” and “hers” drink options). If you met in New York, how about a Manhattan? If you both love the beach, how about a blueberry mojito? And, of course, the drink choice, itself, isn’t the only way to personalize your cocktail: you can name it too, whether it’s a play on your last name, reference to your hometown or favorite sports team.
Loch Aerie Mansion/Serock Catering/Nicole Catherine Photography
Pick Your Palette
One of the easiest ways to pick your signature drink is to use your wedding’s color palette for inspiration. With the variety of mixers available today, it’s possible to create a cocktail in virtually any color. Whether it’s a Tiffany blue Cosmopolitan, a green appletini, pink sangria or Blushing Bride, there are a multitude of options and lots of room for fun experimentation. Keep in mind that when it comes to a cocktail, brighter colors tend to be more appealing than dull ones.
Keep It Simple
Choose a signature drink that can be prepared easily, in only a few steps, and without a ton of ingredients. Preferably, it should be something that can be made in bulk batches prior to your Philadelphia wedding so that your bartenders don’t have to spend precious time mixing each individual drink for each guest, clogging up the bar line and making guests antsy.
Photo credit: Brandywine Cocktails & Coffee/Paul Csi, Phil Kramer Photography
Keep It Fresh and Local
If you have access to a local brewery, distillery or farm, why not support their business when planning your signature drink? Companies such as Brandywine Cocktails & Coffee support locally made spirits by partnering with Philadelphia-area distilleries. From craft vodka and botanical gins to small-batch whiskeys, these collaborations highlight the region’s vibrant distilling scene while giving your signature cocktail a true taste of Philly.
Guests will love the local touch and it will be a great way to narrow down your beverage options. By focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, you will also be able to save money.
Photo credit: Audubon Weddings/JAM Hospitality/Andrea Krout Photography
Let the Venue Inspire the Vibe
Why not use the location of your wedding to help you make your signature drink decision? If it’s rustic, use a ladder as a display. In addition, Philadelphia has numerous ideas like a Colonial Raspberry Shrub or celebrate with a salute to Kensington, home to the oldest producer of cordials still operating in the country. For example, Charles Jacquin et Cie introduced the delicious raspberry liqueur Chambord and St. Germain to the U.S. He is best known for its popular Jacquin liqueurs. Another idea is a bourbon based drink honoring its South Philadelphia roots. It was home to a manufacturer of spirits such as bourbon and vodka.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these 5 tips to choose a signature drink helps you plan. Choosing a signature drink for your wedding is more than just picking a pretty cocktail. It’s an opportunity to tell your story, reflect the season, and celebrate the spirit of your venue. Whether you’re highlighting local flavors, coordinating with your color palette, or adding a personal twist, the right drink can make your celebration even more memorable. So raise a glass to creativity, connection, and cocktails that truly speak you.
