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A cocktail party adds so much fun to a wedding adding a dash of music, dance, and indulgent feasts to the celebration. This event is a chance for guests to unwind and enjoy a variety of beverages in a festive atmosphere. It is also a good opportunity for the bride and the groom to have fun, let their hair down and take a break from exhausting wedding rituals.
A cocktail party at an Indian wedding isn’t limited to propping a couple of whisky and beer bottles on the counter. From premium whiskies, high-quality wines, exotic sake and expensive tequilas to innovative cocktails and refreshing mocktails there’s a lot for guests to choose from. A variety of delightful snacks accompany the versatile bar menu, ensuring that the guests fuel up properly as they set the dance floor on fire.
Planning the perfect cocktail party, however, requires careful thought and creativity. From the selection of drinks to the presentation, every detail contributes to the success of the event. Here are seven essential tips to help you organise an unforgettable cocktail party at your wedding:
- Be Creative and Have Fun with the Bar and Cocktail Menu
Your bar is more than just a place to serve drinks—it’s an experience. Add creativity by including signature cocktails named after the couple or themed drinks inspired by your love story. Infuse cultural elements by offering region-specific drinks like aam panna mojitos or lychee mai tai. A beautifully designed bar setup with vibrant signage and decor can also elevate the entire vibe. - Serve Labels That Offer Value for Money
Premium drinks don’t always have to break the bank. Great wines and spirits are available at all price points. So, choose labels that offer great quality while staying within your budget. Focus on a balance between quality and cost to ensure guests enjoy every sip. However, you can opt for exquisite labels to wow your guests if budget is not a constraint. - Serve Non-Alcoholic Drinks as Well
Not all your guests may drink alcohol, and offering non-alcoholic options ensures everyone feels included. Mocktails like virgin mojito, pear and rose punch, Shirley Temple and mango mule can be just as exciting as their alcoholic counterparts. Consider keeping a dedicated section for soft drinks, iced teas, and freshly squeezed juices to cater to children and the elderly, who may want something simpler than mocktails. - Offer a Diverse Beverage Selection
A variety of drinks ensures that there’s something for everyone. Include whisky, vodka, rum, beer, tequila, and gin as staples, but don’t forget wines and Champagne for a touch of sophistication. Signature cocktails, shots, and seasonal beverages like mulled wine or sangria can add extra excitement. A diverse beverage selection will keep your guests coming back for more through the night. - Hire Professional Bartenders and Mixologists
A skilled bartender can take your cocktail party to the next level by creating visually stunning and delicious drinks. Professional mixologists can entertain guests with flair tricks and personalise drinks on request, making the experience memorable for everyone. They will also keep an eye on the guests and serving staff to ensure a smooth flow of service throughout the event. - Keep The Appetizers Coming
Good food is an essential part of any cocktail night. Ensure an unlimited flow of appetizers that go with a variety of drinks and can be had on the go. Since guests are in the mood to have fun, they will prefer fuss-free snacks that are easy to eat and boost their energy. Food will also keep the guests from getting a bad hangover so that they can enjoy ceremonies planned for the next day with just as much enthusiasm. - Stock Up More Than You Think You’ll Need
Running out of drinks at a wedding cocktail party is a host’s worst nightmare. Always plan for a little extra, especially for crowd favourites like whisky, beer, and cocktails. Keep the total number of guests and duration of the party in mind to stock up the beverages. An average drinker will have one drink per hour while a light drinker will stick to one or two drinks through the night. So knowing your guests will help you plan better.
We hope these tips will help you create a lively cocktail party where all your guests have a great time and so do you! If you’re looking for whisky recommendations for a wedding cocktail party, click here and check out this article. For more wines and spirits recommendations, explore the winners’ list for the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 here.
