Hosting a cocktail hour can really add some fun and excitement to your wedding day! Namely, this time takes place between the ceremony and the reception dinner. While some couples choose to have it in the same area as the reception, many prefer to pick a different, unique spot. However, where and how you organise it is entirely up to you. It is your day, meaning you get to have your cocktail hour exactly how you want it.
The main purpose is to give your guests a chance to unwind, get into a festive mood, enjoy some light bites, and mingle with each other before the main celebration kicks off. If you’re wondering how to make your cocktail hour fun, we have come up with some inspiring ideas.
7 Iconic Cocktail Hour Ideas
Lawn Games
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, lawn games are to keep your guests entertained during cocktail hour! They will love teaming up for some giant Jenga, croquet, Connect Four rounds, or even a piñata! You can either rent these games, make your own, or even buy customised versions that serve as great wedding mementoes.
When you want to ensure that your guests will not be bored before the reception begins, games are your solution. Plus, this might be a great way to let guests socialise and get friendly before the main event.
Food Stations
Keep in mind that your guests, as well as you and your partner, will not have much time to eat before the wedding. Everyone spends time getting ready for the big day, so eating is the last thing that comes to mind. However, once the ceremony is over, hunger will probably take over, and there will still be time until the dinner. So, food stations are the solution.
If you’re thinking about what to serve during cocktail hour, don’t feel the need to go all out. Since your guests will be treated to a meal later, serving some simple snacks and cheese platters will do the trick. Nonetheless, pay attention to the stations’ settings. If you plan an outdoor wedding, you can set up a charcuterie station on an old wagon. Close by, you can establish a fresh kettle of corn popping, and drinks can be served from a canoe bar, offering both beer and wine. This will make your cocktail hour quite authentic and enjoyable!
Live Music
If you want to set the right vibe for your wedding cocktail hour, hiring some skilled musicians can really enhance the experience. Imagine your guests enjoying delicious canapés and drinks while mingling with the sounds of surprise singers, a wandering band, or even a beautiful string quartet. It is a great way to impress everyone and make the atmosphere truly special!
Plus, this is an amazing cocktail hour idea to warm up the guests for the main part. Getting the vibes going is all you need to get your family and friends excited for the dancing that is about to happen quite shortly.
Live Painters
If you are striving for a creative cocktail hour that your guests will admire, try something fun and artistic. Picture having a live artist at your wedding who paints the scene as it unfolds! Your guests will be amazed by watching the whole process happening in real time. Just be sure to place the artist in a great spot so everyone can stroll over and see the masterpiece come to life!
Live painters have always impressed people, and your friends and family will be no exception. It is certainly something you do not see every day, meaning your guests will appreciate this enjoyment you will provide for them.
Cigar Bar
When you want to add a luxurious touch to your cocktail hour, consider setting up a cigar bar. It is a fantastic way to cater to guests who appreciate cigars, giving them a cosy spot to unwind with a selection of premium cigars, speciality cocktails, or aged spirits. This can be especially nice for an outdoor evening wedding.
Above all, check your venue’s smoking policies and choose a well-ventilated outdoor area. You can collaborate with a cigar shop to offer a range of options for different tastes. However, take into consideration all of your guests! To make the experience enjoyable for everyone, including non-smokers, ensure the cigar bar is positioned away from the main area so smoke does not drift over. Provide comfy seating nearby for non-smokers, and consider adding other activities to keep things fun and lively for those who prefer staying away from the smoke.
Photo Booth
A photo booth is a great way to get your guests to snap pictures before the wedding festivities begin! It is fun to capture those spontaneous moments that a pro photographer might miss. Plus, your guests will love having printouts to take home from the cocktail hour.
Moreover, it helps break the ice, making it easier for guests who do not know each other to mingle and strike up conversations. A photo booth is an amusing activity for all ages – count on a lot of positive and lively energy from your guests. Also, expect some great mementoes!
Gelato Stations
No person would say ‘no’ to a gelato! So, if you are planning a wedding during the warmer months, consider renting a charming vintage gelato cart to treat your guests to some tasty icy delights during cocktail hour. Many gelato cart providers offer a variety of handmade gelato and sorbet that cater to different dietary needs. This means you can count on dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options, so everyone can indulge without missing out!
Besides giving your guests a sweet treat, a gelato station will be a great addition to your bridal setting. The gelato carts you can rent look amazing, so you will not make a mistake by going with one!
Cocktail hour is a fantastic break between your wedding ceremony and reception. Moreover, it is the perfect chance to impress your guests with some special, personalised details and fun activities. So, consider some of these cocktail hour ideas and make each moment of your bridal celebration unforgettable!
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