Let’s face it, most weddings are an excuse for guests to let their hair down, enjoy a few drinks and dance the night away. So what drinks should you provide for your guests?
Welcome drinks
This can depend on the time of year that you’re getting married. In summer, fizz is a classic and prosecco is as acceptable as champagne in our book. But there’s also Pimms, a real summertime drink that can be prepared in jugs. If you’re getting married in winter, warm your guests with a glass of mulled wine – or how about mulled cider for an alternative? It’s probably as well to have beer on offer too, as most men still prefer a ‘man’s drink’!
Drinks with the meal
Many bride and grooms offer wine with the meal, and it’s usual to provide red and white at the table. You can choose wine to suit your budget. It’s also a good idea to have water on the table; it may encourage your drinking guests to keep hydrated! Juice is also a good idea to have on the table, for younger guests to enjoy.
The toast
You don’t have to do it, but most of the weddings we host at Escot like to include a wedding toast. Champagne is the nicest option, a real treat to toast the newly-weds. But prosecco is also fine. The choice will depend on your budget. If you’re not too fussed, then just ask everyone to raise their glass, whatever’s in it!
Venue bar
You may want to provide all the drinks for your wedding guests, in which case make sure you have enough. We’ve heard of emergency calls to off licences and alcohol appearing in taxis! Sale or return is your best bet.
Most venues have a bar, we do at Escot. You can be generous and make this a free bar, paying for what your guests drink when you settle your final bill, or you can have a paying bar. This is often a good idea, so your guests can choose exactly what they want to drink and how much, without worrying that you’re having to dig deep.
Non-alcoholic drinks
Some guests may not wish to drink alcohol and of course you need to cater for children. Adult non-drinkers will always appreciate a good choice of soft drinks. Escot includes Frobishers and Fever Tree amongst our soft drinks. You may like to discuss offering mocktails too – these can taste every bit as good as cocktails!
Hot drinks
Tea and coffee are often appreciated after the meal, and some guests may feel they need a moment away from alcohol before the next part of the wedding begins. So, make sure you discuss this with your venue.
