Bar & beverages

Can't decide between an open bar, cash bar, or no host bar? Maybe you're considerig a dry wedding? Find expert-approved guides to bar services for weddings, signature drink ideas, and everything else libations and drinks.

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Open Bar Weddings: A Guide

Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar.

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\n \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n ","subtopicPage":{"articles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"open-bar-weddings-a-guide","title":"Open Bar Weddings: A Guide","excerpt":"Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar. ","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2021-01-15T15:56:10.693Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/6b6158268ae9bec7fea520eeb46fa96a/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg","altText":"A guide to Open Bar Wedding"},"heroCredit":"Chellise Michael Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- There are pros and cons to having an open bar wedding, including cost, safety, and handling guests who drink too much. \n- Modified open bars are a good middle ground and can alleviate some of the issues with open bars. \n- Keeping the safety of your guests at the top of mind is the most important thing, so provide transportation if you have an open bar reception.\n","body":"Your wedding consists of several factors that will take a large chunk of [your budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-ways-cut-wedding-costs). For example, the venue, photographer, and catering can account for half of your finances. However, several other areas, such as an open bar, are also significant financial decisions. When considering open bar weddings, it’s essential to weigh the options and decide what’s best for you—and your guests. \n\n## What Is an Open Bar Wedding? \nHaving an open bar means that you—or whoever is paying for the wedding—is footing the bill for alcoholic beverages and soft drinks during the wedding reception. Essentially, your wedding guests can go up to the bartender and order whatever they want in the form of cocktails, beer, and wine. Bar service can also offer non-alcoholic options, such as juice, soda, and water. \n\n## Pros and Cons to Having an Open Bar Wedding\n\n![Open Bar Weddings: a Guide](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1bvRT13SyF0o7Ffn0YekQU/faa3fb75376df0dfc9591c8ecedd2717/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography__1_.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Chellise Michael Photography\n\nWhile you’re wedding planning, it’s best to be informed so that you can make an educated decision. Armed [with a budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception) and forsaking a dry wedding, now consider the cases for—and against—an open bar. \n\n__Pros:__\n\n- __There is no stress on your guests.__ Having a cash bar can cause some guests to fret. This is especially true if they don’t have cash on hand, or they have to pull out their credit card.\n- __It’s a simple way to say thank you.__ Anyone who has ever sprung for an $18 cocktail knows that drinks are pricey. The open bar wedding cost won’t go unnoticed by your guests as they appreciate every sip. \n- __The bar line should be shorter.__ Paying takes a bit of time when you’re at a cash bar. Alleviating the need to pay will lessen the amount of time your guests stand in line for their drinks. \n\n__Cons:__\n\n- __Guests may not know when to say when.__ Your second cousin may want to try a Manhattan, a Tom Collins, and a White Russian. These are all tasty drinks worthy of testing out at some point. However, your guests don’t need to check them all off their list all in one night. \n- __Drunk people can negatively impact your night.__ When people drink too much, they tend to do one of three things: get sleepy, become silly, or—the highest offense—grow angry. You don’t want people fighting, throwing up, or just not being themselves on your big day. It’s dangerous, and they could end up being embarrassed or hurting themselves or someone else.\n- __Open bar weddings can be costly.__ Per person, the cost can be pretty hefty. The bar service needs to account for the fact that your guests may be heavy drinkers. Therefore, the price you are quoted will reflect that. The tricky part comes when you have guests who don’t drink or may only have one beverage.\n\n## Options for Modified Open Bars\nMeeting in the middle is a good idea, especially if you’re undecided or don’t want a fully open bar. Offering a limited open bar at wedding receptions can be a happy medium to help with the cost. \n\n- __Limit your open bar to a specific time.__ Consider only having an open bar during the cocktail hour. Another option is to hold off until after dinner to have a fully open bar. Waiting will get the dance floor hopping at just the right time. \n- __Serve beer and wine and two other options.__ Signature drinks are an impressive addition, and they are a fun way to showcase a couple’s tastes. Have each partner pick a drink and offer those two selections along with beer [and wine](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/teroforma_wine_for_two) at your open bar. \n- __Axe the hard liquor.__ In this case, beer, wine, and other low percentage alcohols, such as cider and champagne, are offered. Having a limited open bar at weddings means leaving off the high proof spirits. \n- __Drink by the light of day.__ Brunch and daytime weddings can have an open bar. However, offer lighter options. Mimosas and other daytime-friendly options can alleviate the need for heavier drinks. \n- __Save the cocktails for the toast.__ To ensure that each guest has just one cocktail, only serve beer and wine at your open bar; although that doesn’t mean that you need to leave out a fun drink. Have staff serve each guest a signature cocktail and skip the champagne for your toast.\n- __Go with rail or well drinks.__ Well—or rail—drinks are the cheap versions of costly alcohols. Instead of going with more expensive liquors, look at the cheaper versions instead. Connoisseurs won’t necessarily drink straight bourbon if you use well liquors, but their Old Fashioned will taste just the same. \n\n## A Note About Safety and Open Bar Wedding Etiquette\n\n![Open Bar Weddings: a Guide](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/58e3d3e7b77a1330d236798b7bd27391/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Chellise Michael Photography\n\nSo, you’ve decided to have an open bar wedding–it’s a fabulous idea. However, there are a few things to note about the safety of your guests. Of course, you want to make sure that everyone has a great time, so consider these options for everyone’s protection. Hopefully, your guests will know their limitations for the most part, but you need to prepare just in case. \n\n- __Have your bartender be alerted to guests that are drinking too much.__ Your bartender shouldn’t have to be a bouncer, yet they should also have the authority to say no. If a guest is [under the influence](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/drunk-wedding-guest) or hostile, give your bartender the freedom to cut off incapacitated guests. \n- __Display cheeky signage.__ A little bit of lighthearted humor can go a long way. Have signage at your open bar. Let guests know that if they get out of hand, t[hey’ll be cu](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/gingerray_gold_wedding_white_peg_board_with_gold_letters)t off in a hurry. Sayings such as “The drinks are free, but tomorrow’s stories are priceless” or “Our wedding is being photographed, so any drunken antics will be caught on camera” will give your guests a light hint.\n- __Designate someone to play bouncer, if need be.__ The last thing that you and your partner need to worry about is tossing out a drunk guest. Have a groomsman, father, or friend be the heavy and talk to guests who are consuming too much. This duty could also fall on the venue or [wedding planner](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-planner), depending on what they're comfortable doing.\n- Provide transportation for your guests. Drinking and driving is a big no-no. It can result in accidents, fines, and—unfortunately—death. Don’t put a damper on your wedding day by placing your guests in danger. Either hire a service to run folks back to their hotel, or designate someone to call Lyft or Uber for pickups. Doing so can turn a potential tragedy into a safe night with happy memories. \n\nNo matter your final decision, know that it’s ok to cater to [your budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget) and the needs of your guests. Providing a pleasant experience can include an open bar, or you can do a limited bar at wedding receptions. Either way, be sure to keep the safety of your guests at the top of mind as you plan. Having a toast and saying “cheers” surrounded by those you love can be one of the highlights of your day. \n","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Craft your dream wedding menu with our creative food ideas. Find inspiration for delicious dishes to delight guests on your special day.","title":"75 Best Wedding Food Ideas for Your Big Day","slug":"wedding-food-ideas","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Yh2thV4KikLWgKFwM1DDJ/97bed3c6cb2c54e71d511ac0803d112b/wedding-food-hero__1_.jpg","altText":"White plate with assorted bruschetta."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ve narrowed down a list of some of the best wedding cocktails to consider for your big day (as well as some fun, flavor options to make them your own).","title":"18 Popular Wedding Cocktails","slug":"18-popular-wedding-cocktails","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/40IXIJglymNErnNdU5DR91/f5be6ccec01a9d5c224d45f212f3c7ae/Hero_Unsplash_AdamJaime.jpg","altText":"8 Popular Wedding Cocktails"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for a wedding dessert alternative to wedding cake? Couples weigh in on the top wedding desserts to serve in addition to (or instead of) cake.","title":"Top 20 Wedding Desserts to Serve In Addition to Cake","slug":"top-5-wedding-desserts","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/77JkhjpGivIujhevd17RUy/f6a14bad2961308423b22c7406a82751/HERO_Maggie_Tony_PhotobyGTBImagery.jpg","altText":"wedding dessert alternatives"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Inject some life into your wedding reception with this list of must have spirits and other social lubricants. ","title":"The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List","slug":"the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3X1H5ViZvtTc4E3ZNOxUnW/07c180df1bd13ebdd4757c2ccbfb8a78/kelsey-knight-udj2tD3WKsY-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Hand holding wine glass"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:54.670Z"}],"pagination":{"currentPage":2,"total":13},"subtopic":{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding","title":"The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List","excerpt":"Inject some life into your wedding reception with this list of must have spirits and other social lubricants. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-12T19:21:03.075Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3X1H5ViZvtTc4E3ZNOxUnW/07c180df1bd13ebdd4757c2ccbfb8a78/kelsey-knight-udj2tD3WKsY-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Hand holding wine glass"},"heroCredit":"Kelsey Knight","body":"At Zola, we believe that your wedding day is a sacred event intended to celebrate the commitment between you and your partner. While other wedding sites may be in the business of referring to your wedding reception as \"one big party,\" Zola understands that your wedding is as relevant as it is celebratory. \n\nThat being said, celebrating is an integral part of what will undoubtedly be one of the most important days of your life. We don't like to overemphasize the \"party\" aspect of your wedding celebration. Still, we’d be lying if we said that your reception isn't going to be one of the most fabulous celebrations you ever attend.\n\nWhen it comes to celebrating your wedding, having a substantial selection of adult beverages is key. So, enough beating around the bush—here is the ultimate alcohol list for your wedding.\n\nJust for fun, here is our ultimate wedding alcohol list power rankings:\n\n1. __Champagne.__ You can't have a wedding without it.\n2. __Red Wine.__ You can have it during cocktail hour, it will be served with dinner, and it pairs well with chocolatey desserts. Plus, there aren't many people who flat out refuse to drink it. \n3. __Vodka.__ It's easy to drink on its own, and it mixes well with almost everything. If you're going to choose only one spirit, Vodka is it.\n4. __Beer.__ Whether it's domestic or craft, beer is always a great option for a party.\n5. __Bourbon.__ There's the casual whiskey drinker, and then there's the bourbon drinker. Every party has a few of them. Bourbon can be substituted for whiskey, but not the other way around. When in doubt, bourbon over whiskey.\n6. __White Wine.__ More of a cocktail hour beverage than an all-night drink, white wine is a staple for those who prefer something light on the palette.\n7. __Gin.__ It's vodka's partner in crime. This distilled spirit is very en vogue at the moment and opens up a world of cocktail options, such as martinis, gimlets, and, of course, the classic gin and tonic.\n8. __Whiskey.__ Much like vodka, whiskey pairs well with a lot of other beverages. Whiskey is a top requested spirit at any event with a bar, but with only a small range of flexibility for cocktails, it's lower on our list.\n9. __Rum.__ A great liquor for mixed drinks, and a solid depth option to round out any bar.\n10. __Liqueurs.__ This generalized group includes spirits such as triple sec and Bailey's, and are absolutely necessary for creating [wedding signature cocktails](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail).\n\n## Liquor\nDistilled spirits are a foundational building block for any wedding alcohol list. As Willy Wonka once said, “Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.” If you’re planning on serving alcohol at your event, we strongly recommend that you include some version of liquor.\n\nFor many couples, there are questions and concerns surrounding [wedding caterers and bartenders](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bar-services) serving liquor, and understandably so. __The biggest question regarding liquor at your wedding is not whether or not it should be served, but rather what kinds of liquor should be provided, especially at a limited bar.__\n\nAs a method of making your decisions easier, Zola recommends using a tiered system for choosing the liquor you will serve at your wedding. Our tiered system involves choosing two liquors at a time. The idea behind choosing two at a time is all about encouraging you to make selections that will offset one another. Using this selection method will provide your guests with the greatest possible variety for standalone spirits and mixed drinks. \n\n![mikey-harris-aRiyGZqKjj0-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5vyayVfaegxXA3Gfn812uH/5fb88b77cce7be21b3e270a94701c1b9/mikey-harris-aRiyGZqKjj0-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Mikey Harris\n\n### Separate your liquors into clear and colored options. \n\nWhile it may seem simplistic, separating your hard liquor into clear and colored means that you will secure a broader range of alcohol for your guests. For the most part, clear liquors, such as __vodka, gin, and tequila,__ are a completely different flavor profile than dark liquors, such as whiskey, bourbon, and rum. \n\n1. __Vodka and bourbon__. These are the two most common liquor choices for any wedding. On the one hand, you have a clear liquor with vodka, and alternately you have a colored liquor in bourbon. Both are easily drinkable on their own, and both are used in signature cocktail beverages, such as the vodka martini and the Old Fashioned. \n\nThe reason for choosing bourbon over a different kind of whiskey is somewhat subjective, but there is logic behind the choice. All bourbons are whiskeys, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Usually, bourbon is easier to drink on its own, and, far more often, a whiskey drinker will ask for a bourbon over an alternate variety of whiskey. Choose whatever you and your guests will prefer, but bourbon is the safe play here. \n\n2. __Gin and rum__. Gin is a popular choice for fancy cocktails, and rum is great for fun mixed-drink varieties. While rum can be light or dark, we recommend choosing a lighter rum that still has some color to it, such as Mount Gay. Because vodka and bourbon are more mainstream, it’s wise to include gin and rum as your tier two options to increase the versatility of your cocktail bar.\n\n3. __Irish whisky and tequila__, to __vermouth and cognac__. Unless you and your guests are avid tequila drinkers, best to skip it for your wedding. Shots are never encouraged at a wedding, and tequila practically demands to be taken as a shot. Steer clear of this polarizing beverage as it tends to bring out the wild side of any party.\n\n![deleece-cook-znXmpb53QJU-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/csI3Nx7FRgaJzDB4RHXEW/ef068f755b816d3f6f86ae0c088578a3/deleece-cook-znXmpb53QJU-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Deleece Cook\n\n## Champagne\nWhen it comes to your ultimate wedding alcohol list, Champagne should be at the top of it. While liquor is a foundational staple for any wedding, a wedding just simply isn't a wedding without some bubbles and a Champagne toast. For those who are Champagne purists, we should clarify that we are talking about sparkling wine, not necessarily Champagne. \n\nThe difference, for those who are wondering, is sort of like bourbon and whiskey. __All Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne.__ Champagne is a region in France where the beverage Champagne was invented, and, as such, only sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region is called Champagne.\n\n### When Should You Serve Champagne?\n\nSpecificity aside, you’ll want Champagne (read: sparkling wine) throughout the day. Perhaps you’ll want to indulge in a mimosa while getting ready, so you'll need to have prosecco on hand. Maybe you'll want a glass of something in the limo on the way to the reception, so be sure to have a nice brut chilling in the ice chest. And, of course, you'll want to have a bottle bedside for when you and your sweetheart arrive home after the wedding reception. \n\nThe point is, sparkling wine and the aforementioned Champagne are a major part of your wedding day. If we have one piece of advice regarding your Champagne selection, it's this—spend up and overbuy. There is no worse hangover than the one you get from cheap Champagne. And, even if you save the good stuff for yourself, you should always have a few more bottles than you think you'll need.\n\n![yutacar-JKMnm3CIncw-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3B46SLGc34Eg6afQQ9f59T/748ecb17e38b7e89bd1d03c4569a466f/yutacar-JKMnm3CIncw-unsplash.jpg) *Photo Credits //* Yutacar\n\n## Beer and Wine \nBeer and wine are such essential choices for wedding beverages that some couples choose to serve them exclusively. Beer and wine do what other wedding alcohols cannot in their ability to stand on their own as sufficient. While serving only beer and wine may not be your guests' preferred choice, no one will be outraged if you choose to go with beer and wine only.\n\n## An Open Bar's Best Friends\n\nBeer and wine are also terrific complementary pieces to your wedding bar as a whole. Often, whoever is providing your bar service will offer two different beer selections and two different wine selections. More often than not, the choices of beer will include one __domestic and one imported.__ Similarly, the wine will be offered in the form of __red wine, usually a cabernet, and white wine, usually chardonnay.__\n\nThe best part about beer and wine is simplicity. You don't have to overthink it, just pick something that most people like and you'll be fine. When in doubt, pick something you like to drink, and if you're really stuck, ask a couple of guests. \n\n- The most common beer choices for a wedding include Bud Light—as the domestic choice—and Corona or Heineken as the imported choice. \n- Chardonnay and cabernet are the most popular wine choices, but a zinfandel and sauvignon blanc are good alternatives, respectively. \n\n## Mixers, Citrus, and Ice\nEvery ultimate wedding alcohol list should include mixers. While they may not be alcohol themselves, there are very few guests who will want their drinks neat. Be sure to procure a variety of soft drinks, juices, and, of course, fresh-cut citrus to include with the alcohol you’re serving.\n\nYou can never have too much ice. People like their drinks to be cold, and many people enjoy their cocktails on the rocks. Every good bartender will tell you how important ice is to a well-stocked bar. Do your guests, and your bartenders, a favor by getting plenty of ice for the booze.\n\n## Specialty Cocktails\nSome call them craft cocktails, others call them specialty spirits, but whatever you call these artisanal alcoholic treats, your guests will simply call them delicious. \n\n### Bartenders vs. Mixologists: Which Should You Choose?\n\nUsually, an average bartender will not be able to create signature cocktails on the spot, so you may need to hire someone with a special skill set who can help curate a unique [wedding cocktail menu](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-drinks-are-served-at-cocktail-hour \"What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?\") for the event. We're not saying that there aren't regular bartenders who don't make a superior drink, but we're just saying that for truly artisanal cocktails you’ll need to hire a bonafide mixologist for this type of alcoholic beverage.\n\nIf you’re considering a real mixologist for your wedding, we recommend hiring them only for cocktail hour. Having someone to make fancy cocktails is a great way to entertain your guests as they mingle during the [time between ceremony and reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-time-should-you-have-between-a-wedding-ceremony-and-reception). However, there is a high probability that the cool aesthetic of craft cocktails will wear off later in the evening. As people begin to drink more, they care less about a hibiscus-infused vodka gimlet and tend to lean more on the standard party beverages, such as beer or a glass of wine. \n\n![The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Wkajj9KjnL5ltyPxzajMD/16168ef8c715b1543d133e8f53579c2b/INLINE_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg)*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\n## Should You Have Alcohol at Your Wedding?\n\nIf you have trepidations about serving liquor at your wedding, we’re here to tell you not to worry. While distilled spirits and other alcohols can certainly cause drunkenness, rest assured that your guests will be on their best behavior. It’s a well understood social construct that behavior at a wedding is jovial, yet controlled. Your guests certainly understand that this is a special occasion and they are expected to have fun responsibly. \n\n- If you’re concerned about overserving your guests, we recommend setting a drink limit for hard liquor. Alternately, a cash bar is always a great way to encourage responsibility as it tempers how many trips to the bar your guests are willing to take. \n- If you’re concerned about serving too much alcohol at your wedding, address your guest list to see whether or not alcohol will be an issue. Alcohol, when consumed responsibly, is a wonderful part of being an adult and an incredible part of your wedding day. \n\nWe hope this list of wedding day alcohol choices will help your planning process, so that come the big day you can sit back and raise a glass to your new spouse and a life of joy together. Cheers!\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:59.297Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"18-popular-wedding-cocktails","title":"18 Popular Wedding Cocktails","excerpt":"We’ve narrowed down a list of some of the best wedding cocktails to consider for your big day (as well as some fun, flavor options to make them your own).","author":"Maggy Lehmicke","publishedAt":"2021-11-01T14:42:35.660Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/40IXIJglymNErnNdU5DR91/f5be6ccec01a9d5c224d45f212f3c7ae/Hero_Unsplash_AdamJaime.jpg","altText":"8 Popular Wedding Cocktails"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- While there are hundreds of cocktails (and combinations) worth considering for your wedding-day festivities, there are 18 that seem to consistently win guests over.\n- Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or more spirit-forward, it’s important to remember that nearly every cocktail can be customized to fit your vision.\n- Most importantly, make sure your cocktail selections reflect not only your event, but you as a couple.","body":"Whether you’re hoping for something strong and spirit-forward or a light and fruity spritzer, there are plenty of wedding cocktails to choose from on your big day. Below are some of our favorite choices for wedding cocktails (as well as a few tips and tricks to make them your own).\n\n## 18 Popular Wedding Cocktail Recipes \n\n### #1 __Moscow Mule__\nThis classic cocktail recipe mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime is not only a popular pick, but also lends itself to a lot of versatility. For something more customized, consider adding berries, hibiscus, or even some St. Germain. Those who prefer darker spirits can opt for a Kentucky Mule or Dark ‘n Stormy instead. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz vodka\n- 4 oz ginger beer\n- ½ oz lime juice\n- Lime wedge for garnish (optional) \n\n### #2 __Manhattan__\nThis signature cocktail recipe is great for guests who prefer a more spirit-forward libation. While typically made with rye or another American whiskey (such as bourbon), feel free to get creative with your whiskey of choice. Irish whiskies, Scotch, and other blended options make some great alternatives. You can even add a dash of orange bitters to really bring out the citrus notes.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz bourbon or rye\n- 1 oz sweet vermouth\n- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters\n- Orange peel\n- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional) \n\n### #3 __Margarita__\nThe ultimate crowd pleasers, margaritas are a clear favorite at weddings (particularly amongst tequila lovers). While a classic margarita is made with lime, you can make one from almost any fruit. Try playing around with infusions (such as pineapple juice and jalapeno) or create a fun salt station where your guests can make something that suits their personal tastes.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz tequila\n- ¾ oz lime juice\n- 1 oz orange liqueur (typically Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or Triple Sec)\n- Salt for the rim\n\n### #4 __French 75__\nThe perfect fit for a classy affair, this Prohibition-era sipper will appeal to even the most cocktail-averse guests. While typically served with gin, some cocktail connoisseurs prefer swapping the base spirit with Cognac. Served in a Champagne flute, this drink is a great alternative to the classic Champagne toast. Feel free to add a lemon twist for some extra flair.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 oz gin\n- ½ oz lemon juice\n- ½ oz simple syrup\n- 2 oz Champagne\n\n### #5 __Mimosa__\nThe simplest of all brunch cocktails, the mimosa is a great option for morning weddings or early festivities. Because of its simplicity, there are a lot of creative ways you can make the mimosa your own, including swapping the orange juice with a grapefruit or guava alternative. You can also consider a Bellini with peach nectar and prosecco if that’s more your vibe.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2-3 oz Champagne\n- 2-3 oz orange juice\n\n### #6 __Bees Knees__\nAnother light and citrusy selection, this cocktail is well-loved by many and makes a refreshingly sweet addition to any reception. Consider it as a cooler alternative to a hot toddy or a fun substitute for a Tom Collins. For creative folks, lavender simple syrup, blood orange, and elderflower liqueur all make great add-ins. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz gin\n- 1 oz lemon\n- ½ oz honey syrup\n- Lemon twist for garnish (optional) \n\n### #7 __Old Fashioned__\nFor those who appreciate a good spirit-forward cocktail, the classic Old Fashioned is a great one to lean on. While traditionally made with bourbon, you can always swap spirits with brandy, Scotch, or rye. Add a bit of orange zest, a cocktail cherry, or even dried rosemary to keep it fresh and seasonal.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz bourbon\n- 1 sugar cube\n- 2 dashes Angostura bitters\n- Orange peel and/or a cherry for garnish (optional) \n\n### #8 __Mojito__\nFor an outdoor, summer affair, there are few drinks as refreshing as a minty mojito. Feel free to play around with different types of rum and add berry infusions (such as fresh strawberries or blackberries) to satisfy the fruit-forward crowd. For those who prefer whiskey over rum, the Mint Julep is a great alternative with a similar flavor profile.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz rum\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- 2 teaspoons sugar or simple syrup\n- 5-8 mint leaves (muddled)\n- 4 oz club soda\n\n### #9 __Paloma__\nSimilar to the margarita (though slightly less common), the Paloma is a fun, fruit-forward drink that works for a variety of occasions. The simplicity of the drink makes it easy to add some fun twists, whether it be some agave nectar or a flavored salt rim. Fresh grapefruit juice adds a bit of zest, while the soda route is best if you’re craving something bubbly.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz tequila\n- 2 oz grapefruit juice or soda\n- ½ oz lime juice","body2":"### #10 __Gin & Tonic__\nFew cocktails are as classic and accessible as the G&T. While the traditional G&T is made of one part gin and three parts tonic, the perfect gin-to-tonic ratio is completely dependent on the individual. The simplicity of the G&T lends itself to a wide variety of options for customization, such as adding fruit or botanicals that really bring out the flavors of the gin. Using flavored gin or tonic water is another simple way to mix it up. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1-3 oz gin\n- 3-4 oz tonic water\n- Lime wedge for garnish (optional) \n\n### #11 __Whiskey Sour__\nExactly how it sounds, the whiskey sour is the perfect fit for those craving something on the tart side. With a fine balance of whiskey and lemon, the cocktail is fairly spirit-forward (and best prepared by a bartender who knows how to work with egg whites). Consider this a citrusy alternative to an old-fashioned or mint julep.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz bourbon\n- 1 oz lemon juice\n- ¾ oz simple syrup\n- 1 egg white\n\n### #12 __Martini__\nFew cocktails are as iconic as James Bond’s signature drink, making it the perfect pick for a black-tie affair. While the classic martini was made with gin, many bartenders have adopted a modern twist by opting for vodka instead. Consider playing around with flavored vodka or fun garnishes, such as edible flowers and other botanicals.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 3 oz gin or vodka\n- ½ oz dry vermouth\n- An olive for garnish\n\n### #13 __Aperol Spritz__\nMuch like the French 75, the Aperol spritz is a great option for those who favor sparkling wine over a more spirit-forward cocktail. The zesty, orange flavor is great for summer celebrations, while the bright hue adds a fun visual element. If you’re getting married in the off-season, it’s worth considering alternatives such as a cognac, apple cider spritz, or rhubarb spritzer.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz Aperol\n- 2 oz prosecco\n- 1 oz club soda\n\n### #14 __Gimlet__\nThe sweet and citrusy cousin to the martini, a classic gimlet adds a touch of class while still being endlessly refreshing. While traditionally served with gin, there are no spirits restrictions when it comes to the gimlet. In addition to swapping gin with flavored vodka, basil, elderflower, and rosemary all make great inclusions.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz gin\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- ½ -1 oz simple syrup (to taste)\n\n### #15 __Negroni__\nIf you find yourself loving Manhattans or the bittersweet, spiced notes of Campari, then the negroni may be for you. The botanical flavors of both the gin and vermouth are complemented by the mix of cherry, clove, and cinnamon that are often found in the Italian aperitif. While an acquired taste, the negroni is a great addition to any bar (particularly when paired with other, lighter options).\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 oz gin\n- 1 oz Campari\n- 1 oz sweet vermouth\n- Orange peel for garnish\n\n### #16 __Daiquiri__\nIf you’re someone who loves rum, but may be overwhelmed by the mint flavors of a mojito, then a daiquiri may be just the thing for you. More of a family cocktail than a singular drink, the daiquiri pairs well with a wide variety of summer-inspired flavors, including strawberry, peach, lemongrass, coconut, and more.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz white rum\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- ½ oz simple syrup\n\n### #17 __Irish Coffee__\nAs the weather cools, offering Irish coffee is a great way to warm your guests throughout the reception. Try adding a whipped cream station, or let guests pick their spirit of choice. Hot toddies and hot buttered rum are a couple of other warm drinks that make great alternatives, particularly if coffee is not your cup of tea (no pun intended).\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey\n- 1 oz cream\n- 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup\n- 3-4 oz hot coffee\n\n### #18 __Bloody Mary__\nWhile traditionally a brunch libation, the bloody Mary complements a wide range of celebration styles, making it a fun alternative to the classic wedding cocktail. This is the perfect pick for couples who want an engaging cocktail station, allowing guests to select from an abundance of additions, ranging from bacon to cilantro and other herbs.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz vodka\n- 3-4 oz tomato juice or tomato-vegetable cocktail mix\n- 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce\n- 1 tsp salt\n- ½ oz lemon juice (optional) \n- 1 dash of hot sauce (optional) \n- 1 stalk celery and/or green olives for garnish\n\nCocktails are uniquely personal, which is why it’s important to put some thought into what you want to choose for your big day. In addition to keeping your guests and seasonality in mind, make sure to choose drinks from [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that really resonate with you as a couple. After all, you’re likely going to want something tasty to sip at your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) and reception.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Registry"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Seasons_Quiz"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Today’s couples are craving experiences instead of gifts. Our date ideas are fabulous to add to your wedding registry to make memories with your love.","title":"12 Fabulous Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry","slug":"12-fabulous-date-ideas-to-put-on-your-registry","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XFbyLUjyLaqT7gm3RrHDI/8a01b731d6339621e591c9e2915835bd/hannah-busing-zhDREn4OqY8-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Elevate your wedding with delicious wine and cake pairings. This guide will help you find your perfect wedding dessert and wine pairing.","title":"13 Cake and Wine Pairings to Elevate Your Wedding Menu","slug":"cake-and-wine-pairings","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1pXqrnUxuPmMAkE8RuL9jk/8ee5c6098d0fc8a66ce5036f62ba8ab9/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_13-cake-and-wine-pairings.jpg","altText":"cake and wine pairing"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Craft your dream wedding menu with our creative food ideas. Find inspiration for delicious dishes to delight guests on your special day.","title":"75 Best Wedding Food Ideas for Your Big Day","slug":"wedding-food-ideas","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Yh2thV4KikLWgKFwM1DDJ/97bed3c6cb2c54e71d511ac0803d112b/wedding-food-hero__1_.jpg","altText":"White plate with assorted bruschetta."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Say thank you to your wedding party with this list of 70 bridesmaid gift ideas. We’ve organized the gifts by theme and we’ll also fill you in on how much you should spend per bridesmaid. ","title":"70 Bridesmaid Gift Ideas To Say Thank You to Your Wedding Party","slug":"bridesmaid-gift-ideas","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/22sFwGzGCzpFItV1N4bGAq/85831ac4d2cdd8951259505ac56443f6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"bridesmaid-gift-ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar. ","title":"Open Bar Weddings: A Guide","slug":"open-bar-weddings-a-guide","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/6b6158268ae9bec7fea520eeb46fa96a/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg","altText":"A guide to Open Bar Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"From koozies to succulents, infused oil to hand sanitizer, there are a lot of wedding favors to consider when selecting for your big day. With that in mind, we’ve compiled the best wedding favors, to take the guesswork out of gifts for your guests.","title":"30 Wedding Favor Ideas To Make Your Guests Smile","slug":"best-wedding-favors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3Fivh6xtQQk3GFRAs53LEY/1f5bcf4fa5c218e776e61a56cea3e1d0/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Best Wedding Favors"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Build Your Zola Registry","url":"https://www.zola.com/onboard/new"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:57.615Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-to-save-money-with-a-cash-bar-at-your-wedding","title":"Cash Bar at Wedding Explained + 6 Tips to Save Money","excerpt":"One way to save money on your big day is to have a cash bar wedding. Our guide includes cash bar etiquette and invitation wording samples. ","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2021-01-19T16:37:21.804Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg","altText":"Cash Bar at Your Wedding"},"heroCredit":"Emma Cleary Photo and Video","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- A cash bar is where guests pay for drinks themselves; however, you can have a limited or ticketed version.\n- It is a proper cash bar etiquette to inform your guests ahead of time that they need to bring cash or a card. \n- Even with a cash bar, designate someone to cut off guests who overdrink or are drunk.","body":"*Want to keep track of your wedding budget? [Try our free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.*\n\nAs your wedding attendants are busy planning their __[toast speeches](https://zola.app.link/dxLaAGyN71)__, you’re deciding what to pour into their glasses, and that not only includes the drink for the toast, but also the [bar options for the entire reception](https://zola.app.link/SiNeuzyN71). Dollar signs click away as your budget increases. An [open bar wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide) can often be attached to a lot of dollar signs; however, you can save money by having a __[beer and wine](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-host-a-wedding-with-no-hard-liquor)__ only wedding reception or a cash bar at your wedding. From wording your __[wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)__ to limited bar etiquette, here are our top tips for successfully pulling off a cash bar.\n\n![Zola: How to Save Money With a Cash Bar at Your Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/74XxTvMMbYgx5gBJ7yhaKr/c7a899e46d38a936c4bbb923bd8181a3/inline_Tall___Small_Event.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Tall Small Event\n\n## How Does a Cash Bar Work? \n\nThink of cash bar service as being like a traditional bar. Patrons come up, order what they want to drink, and either start a tab or pay on the spot—viola! It’s easy, and that’s quite similar to how a cash bar works. It's easy for wedding guests to understand when they can go and order their signature cocktail or multiple [alcoholic beverages](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception) during cocktail hour.\n\nHowever, with a limited selection bar at your wedding reception, there are a few other options. You may not be able to have a [hosted bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding) filled with every selection under the sun. And that’s ok, as there are a few different ways to handle a cash bar.\n\n- __Ticketed Cash Bar:__ Some couples don’t wish to commit to a cash bar fully. However, they need to avoid paying for guests who want a lot to drink. A good in-between option is to have a cash bar with tickets, where guests receive one to two vouchers for free drinks. When their tickets run out, they need to ante up and pay for their alcohol from the full bar. \n- __Limited Cash Bar:__ Just because you have a cash bar doesn’t mean that your bartender needs to offer __[anything and everything](https://zola.app.link/hAcrL9YGq9)__. You don’t necessarily need five different vodkas and specialty vermouths on your wedding day. Talk to your bartender about what spirits he or she recommends, or simply go with __[beer](https://zola.app.link/hnFNhcbm2cb)__, soft drinks, and bottles of __[wine](https://zola.app.link/33xRJvdm2cb)__ to keep it simple.\n-__Traditional Cash Bar:__ If you want to go traditional, each drink is paid for by the guests. However, still do Champagne or a signature drink for your toast. The toast should be complimentary, of course. You can save a little bit of money by having staff only fill the __[toasting glasses](https://zola.app.link/ZLPQEMfm2cb)__ halfway—that way, less alcohol goes to waste.\n\n## Cash Bar Wedding Etiquette\n\n![Zola: How to Save Money With a Cash Bar at Your Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Emma Cleary Photo and Video\n\n### Inform Your Guests That You’re Having a Cash Bar Wedding\nMaking your guest list aware ahead of time is where it gets a bit tricky. You don’t want to keep your cash bar service a secret, as you need loved ones to prepare in advance. The last thing you want is to surprise your guests and have them scrambling for wallets or their credit card to pay for their own drinks. It’s proper cash bar etiquette to be upfront with your attendees. That way they can determine the amount of alcohol they want to drink.\n\n### Skip the Tip Jar, and Pay for Gratuity Yourself\nAlso, there is a bit of a debate about having a tip jar. A cash bar is preferable for some guests over a [dry wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-sober-wedding). However, some may balk at having to pay and leave a tip after paying for alcohol. One way to get around this is to pay for the gratuity yourself. Many venues and caterers [include tips](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors) in the contract, yet giving each bartender a $50 to $100 bonus is appreciated.\n\n### Give Your Cash Bar Service Provider’s Permission to Cut Guests Off\nUnfortunately, you may have some guests who will drink too much, even though they are footing the bill. However, just because they are paying, you still need to create a responsible reception atmosphere. Give your bartender, staff member, or designated relative the authority to talk to individual guests. That way, that individual can cut people off if guests are __[consuming too much](https://zola.app.link/9f8cK8YiI9)__.\n\n## Cash Bar Invitation Wording\nWhen conveying that you have a cash bar service, it’s essential to use proper communication. Place the information on both your __[wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)__ and your invitations, so that your guests quickly see it. Here are a few examples of how to tactfully say cash bar, ranging from formal to creative. \n\n- __Formal:__ We can’t wait to celebrate with you and host you for dinner. Unfortunately, we have chosen a cash bar, so please bring cash or a credit card to enjoy bar service.\n- __Casual:__ Dinner’s on us. Drinks are on you. So, if you want to consume, bring a buck or two (or a credit card).\n- __Two Drink Tickets:__ We are excited to host you for dinner. However, if you would like more than two drinks, please bring cash or a credit card for our cash bar service. \n- __One Drink Ticket:__ Our wedding will be beautiful and our reception fun. With drinks, bring cash if you want more than one.\n\n## Cash Bar Pros and Cons\nThere are many pros and cons to having a cash bar, and not all of them are about your wedding budget. Weigh these factors when trying to come up with a middle ground while wedding planning for your big day. \n\n### What are the pros of having a cash bar?\nHaving a cash bar is very cost-effective for the ones hosting the wedding. If your wedding party or others decide to overdo the bubbly, you aren’t stuck with an expensive bill. As far as guests are concerned, having a cash bar can also be a pro, especially if someone is prone to drink a bit too much white wine if they don’t have to pay. Charging guests can help eliminate over-drinking, which can be a relief for some attendees.\n\n### What are the cons of having a cash bar? \nA DIY cash bar can have some negative connotations and seem a bit tacky for some guests. Of course, you don’t want to come off as cheap, which is what some folks will unfortunately remember. Asking guests to pay impacts the overall hospitality at the event. Plus, having your bartender mix drinks and take payments can also hold up the bar line at your wedding venue.\n\n## 6 Extra Tips to Save Money + With Cash Bar\n1. __Allow guests to bring their own alcohol.__ Don’t want to spring for luxe bourbon? Have your guests bring their own. That way, they can have whatever they’d like at their own expense while still having something they enjoy. Just make sure to let them know ahead of time that this is an option.\n\n2. __Serve drinks in simple glasses.__ Forget the fancy barware, which can break, anyway. Go with plain glasses for drinking to save on your wedding budget.\n\n3. __Only provide a signature cocktail.__ One way to have your event seem more upscale without spending a ton on alcohol is to serve one or two signature drinks. Voila! With a very limited amount of choices, you won’t break the bank. \n\n4. __Set specific bar hours.__ Instead of serving alcohol in an open bar, have a specific opening and closing time. Doing so is a great way to limit over-indulgence.\n\n5. __Consider hosting a daytime or weekday wedding.__ If you have a flexible schedule, try an off-time wedding. These events are normally less expensive anyway, which can include a break on bar service.\n\n6. __Have a toonie bar.__ A what? If you haven’t heard of the term, it’s a different take on a traditional cash or limited bar. Basically, guests throw in a few dollars for every drink each time they go to the bar. That way, the bartender doesn’t have to worry about playing cashier, and guests can throw in a few bucks or a twenty.\n\n## One Last Word About a Cash Bar Wedding\nWe realize that weddings are expensive. A lot of planning and financing goes into one day. However, think about your guests when you’re considering a cash bar. Many are traveling, and there are other expenses to factor in for those who attend. They may purchase new clothing, spring for a babysitter, and—hopefully—__[buy you a gift](https://zola.app.link/eHihVjjt52)__.\n\nInstead of using a tacky cash bar, it may be better to go with a ticketed or limited option. Doing so will let your guests know that you appreciate their attendance. However, having the host spring for some—but not all—alcoholic drinks communicates that you don’t want anyone over-consuming. Most wedding professionals will encourage you to go another route before solely going with cash bar service.\n\nOf course, you know your guests and your finances best. Therefore choose whichever option you and your partner feel most comfortable utilizing. No matter what, your family and friends will enjoy celebrating with you on one of the most important days of your life.\n\n## Zola: Your Place for Wedding Bar Planning\nIf you like full-service bars, you’ll love Zola’s full-service approach to breaking down wedding bar service. From timely articles to a handy [wedding alcohol calculator](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding), Zola is at the ready. After all, no one wants to have too much leftover alcohol (hello, expensive!) or run out and cut the party off early. ","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:55.597Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-much-do-you-tip-your-wedding-bartender","title":"How Much Do You Tip Your Wedding Bartender?","excerpt":" Planning a wedding day has a lot of moving parts to keep track of. One major thing is how much to tip specific vendors, especially when it comes to the wedding bartender. ","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-11-01T19:13:49.991Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4vomS6tVcnuDErXPtgeGpY/5fd5dac0aec90e8ecf1b74bae39f19ba/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"How Much Do You Tip Your Wedding Bartender?"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- There are a few things to keep in mind when tipping bartenders at your wedding, such as if they are hired through a catering vendor or separately. \n- Typically people tip between 18-25 percent of the total bill for the evening, but this is also reflected in the duration of the wedding reception and other factors. \n- Be sure to plan ahead if you will be tipping with a cash tip or card, so that way you can present it accordingly.","body":"Many people know to tip servers and bartenders at restaurants, hairstylists at hair salons, and other service industry members when a service is properly performed. But, did you know that tipping also applies to your [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors)? When you’re in the process of planning your wedding and booking vendors for your big day, you may find, during the contract signing, that a line item for gratuity is listed; however, many vendors do not include this. If not stated, what do you do when it comes to tipping your wedding bar and bartender? \n\nWhen it comes to [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) your wedding, one thing that people generally don't want to skimp on is [the bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas). Bartenders play an important role in a wedding––they keep the drinks flowing. They also make sure that the various kinds of wines, liquors, and soft drinks that you want are fully stocked, while also pouring beverages and making various cocktails. \n\nGenerally speaking, bartenders do a lot of things behind the scenes that you may not even realize. They try to help set the tone for the guests with small talk, keep them happy throughout the event, and also keep an eye on who may be drinking too much, as well as adjust what they are serving as a way of doing some damage control. Given the job that they have, tipping them accordingly is important. Here are several things to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to tip your bartenders.\n\n### How Much Do You Tip? \nKnowing how much to tip is always something that comes up, and for people who are in the service industry, being tipped well can make a huge difference. A good general rule of thumb is to tip between 18-25 percent. If someone gave you exceptional service, showing your appreciation of them via a good tip is always the way to go. \n\nAnother thing to take into consideration is the vendor's contract. If you hired a caterer and they have bartenders included in their events’ package, double-check to see if gratuity is included in the price. If this is the case, then the tip will be divided up among the various staff that worked your event, but it’s important to find out for sure. If gratuity is not included, then you can apply an 18-25 percent tip onto the total of whatever the catering bill is. If you’ve hired a more expensive catering company and are working out how much to pay various staff, you can also offer a flat rate of gratuity per worker.\n\nAccording to Jordan Catapano, co-founder of [This Girl Walks Into a Bar LLC](https://www.thisgirlwalksintoabar.com/), “When gratuity is included, it’s important to ask how many people will be splitting the tip. Twenty percent added gratuity can be fantastic for a crew of five, but not so great for a staff of ten. Everyone’s role in the success of a wedding is important, but if there’s one area of service that particularly stood out then tipping more is always appreciated.”\n\nWhen it comes to tipping bartenders at your wedding, you want to think about the overall job that they are doing and also the level of service being provided. Typically, bars with weddings are extremely busy throughout the reception, and, as such, bartenders will be the members of the service wait staff that will interact with guests the most. These things should factor into the tip. Catapano suggests tipping $100 to each bartender, and to keep in mind that the average length of most bar shifts are six to 10 hours. \n\nHowever, you may decide to hire bartenders separately from a catering company. If you’re hiring bartenders and mixologists separately, be sure to negotiate an hourly rate that both you and they are happy with. From there, you can apply a similar equation as stated above, where you can tip 18-25 percent of the total bill. \n\n### Hiring a Bartender Separately: Tips and Cost Considerations \n\nHiring a bartender separately from a catering company does offer some advantages. If you decide to go that route, you do want to keep several things in mind. Catapano noted that they can use their mixology expertise to help give you and your wedding guests an even more memorable experience. They will also offer “guidance when planning the drink menu, and a specialist behind the bar to execute those drinks,” Catapano said. \n\nWhen it comes to the bar, details matter, so you want to work with someone who will think ahead. “We’ve worked too many events where the bar isn’t stocked with the appropriate equipment to create drinks quickly, or where the correct ingredients aren’t supplied for the signature drinks. Fresh lime juice is very different from concentrated lime juice. Lemonade is not a substitute for margarita mix. Cranberry juice and cran-raspberry juice are not always interchangeable. The bar at a wedding is the artery of the party,” Catapano said.\n\nWhen you’re hiring a bartender separately, Catapano also offered these tips:\n\n- Try to have a 50:1 guest to bartender ratio for the best possible service. There’s some wiggle room here depending on the drink selection.\n- Your specialty drink menu should max out at five, but three is ideal. The more specialty drinks offered, the longer the bar line, and the more one will have to buy for ingredients.\n- If the bar won’t have sink access, any cocktail that requires muddling is discouraged. If the couple has their heart set on muddled jalapeño and mint margaritas, speak with the bartending company in advance about how to prep for a drink like that in advance.\n- Think about having batched drinks. It can not only save time, but also cut down on waste and save a lot of money. They also add lovely, inviting décor to the bar.\n\nThe other thing to keep in mind is what the cost of this is and how much to tip.\nOften this will be an hourly rate, however the rate depends on your region; a typical hourly rate ranges from $30 to $50 per hour, plus 18-25 percent gratuity. “Negotiating a flat rate works best when the [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) has a hard stop and load out time. If the evening’s end time is fluid, a flat rate could cost the couple more than necessary or short-change the bar staff,” Catapano added. \n\nThere’s also the uncomfortable situation when a flat rate has been negotiated and the staff underwhelms the couple with their service. If a generous gratuity was already given but, in the end, not earned, it leaves a bad taste in the mouth of the couple on a day that should have nothing but warm and positive vibes. \n\n### Do You Tip at a Cash Bar? \n\nWhen it comes to a cash bar, when guests are paying for their drinks, various companies have policies about tip jars. However, unless a couple gives the okay for one, the industry standard is not to have one. If guests choose to tip on their own that is up to them. However, the bartender should be tipped by the people hired for the service they provide, regardless if the bar is cash or not. \n\n### Do You Tip With Cash or on a Credit Card?\nGenerally, most people consider cash to be king and if you plan ahead you can make sure that you have enough cash to tip your bartender. However, if you don't have cash on hand, tipping on the card is always an option. One thing to keep in mind is that because of credit card transactions it may sometimes take a few days for the bartender and other staff to be able to get the tip from the credit card. The advantage of tipping in cash is that they are able to leave with their tip immediately. \n\nIf you’re tipping with cash, be sure to plan ahead and make sure that you have enough money. Also, you may want to place it in an envelope. Generally, it’s also presented at the end of the wedding reception after the wedding is over. However, if you’re tipping on your credit card, this will usually be done prior to the wedding, due to the contract that is signed. \n\nGenerally bartenders are known for going above and beyond when it comes to customer service. If there’s a lull, they’ll leave the bar to pick up abandoned plates and cups, circulate the party with a bottle of white wine and a bottle of red wine to top off glasses, or bring the couple fresh cocktails when they can’t seem to make their way to the bar. Having a tip that reflects this and how your bartender staff contributed to your big day is important.","stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:03.462Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-much-should-you-budget-for-an-open-bar-at-your-wedding","title":"How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ","excerpt":"Eat, drink and be merry. But how much will it cost to have an open bar at your wedding?","publishedAt":"2021-01-20T20:23:25.691Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/72HwpcWjht9IZluxajuyqN/373062c6414445622adac74eec1731b1/inline_shutterstock.jpg","altText":"Budget for an Open Bar"},"heroCredit":"Shutterstock","body":"*Want to keep track of your wedding budget? [Try our free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.*\n\nWhether you’re having a summer soiree or high class celebration, [alcohol](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding) is deeply intertwined with weddings of all kinds. From the champagne toasts to the drinks that provide the liquid courage for your guests to hit the dancefloor, alcohols of various types have found special places amongst wedding receptions.\n\nBut this begs one important question amidst wedding planning: Are you planning to foot the bill for your guests to drink on the house? What will that look like? If you’re planning to have an open bar, there’s a lot to consider when determining a budget. Here are aspects to consider when calculating the potential costs.\n\n## The Deal With Alcohol Packages\nFrom full open bars, to limited bars, to signature cocktails, various levels of alcohol packages can land you at vastly different price points—effecting your entire wedding budget. That’s why it’s important to know all the pricing information when including a bar of any sort in your cocktail hour, reception, or both.\n\nThere are different lengths to which you can go when it comes to an open bar, like only covering certain types of booze or only offering a particular selection to begin with. Each of these options will effect your bottom line, so it's paramount you know what's what.\n\n![Zola: How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1eUMMFdGPQWoD5LUCmohGA/29bb6a052a521bd1b10ead9fb12c64ec/inline_carley_k_photography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Carley K Photography\n\n## Types of Open Bars\nTypically, there are two types of [open bars](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide) your venue will allow you to choose from. The first will offer a few beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, an assortment of regular or top-shelf spirits (typically vodka, tequila, gin, rum, bourbon, and whiskey), mixers (e.g. tonic water, club soda, juices, and margarita mix), and some non-alcoholic options (e.g. sodas, flat water, and sparkling water). You can also ask them to include a champagne, different bottle of wine (like a rosé), or similar for an additional cost.\n\nHowever, if this top-tier full bar option is out of budget or might not go to good use, you have a second option to consider. Most venues will also offer a limited open bar, which features beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic drinks, mixers, and limited or no spirits. As always, we recommend checking with your venue to get the specifics of what options they have available.\n\n## Beer and Wine Only\nAs a shock to just about nobody, beer and wine are almost always less expensive than liquor. Far less expensive. So, if your crowd's more the type to sip on a hearty beer or refreshing wine, as opposed to going for mixed drinks, we highly suggest considering this option.\n\nUnder this banner, you may also want to check with your venue and see if you're able to [bring your own beer and bubbly](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception). Not all venues will allow this—many that include catering and a bar won't allow you to bring in other food or drinks—but you might be surprised at those who do. Buying beer and wine by the case often results in wholesale discounts, which could considerably bring down the cost of your program. All while supplying guests with the option of unlimited booze of their favorite varieties.\n\n## Signature Drinks\nAnother, often less expensive, route you could explore is offering a signature drink (or drinks). Often, venues can work with you to offer your standard beers and wines, while also including around three signature cocktails in leu of a full open bar of spirits. In this case, guests will then have the option of selecting from the beers, wines, or signature preset drinks included in your bar package. These drinks are typically special to the newly wed couple, with your options depending on what ingredients the bar has available. \n\nFor example, if your bar won't have espresso available, they won't be able to create espresso martinis. If you haven't already been provided one in your venue proposal, request a list of ingredients (beers, wine, spirits, mixers) your bar has and work from there. Deciding on a limited number of drinks—and, therefore, ingredients being used—should considerable help with the open bar cost. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to reminisce on drinks that may be favorable or important to you, then give them fun names.\n\n__Note:__ If you opt for a full open bar, you should still be able to create and advertise signature cocktails. Just ask your venue coordinator for some assistance getting that set up.\n\n## Open Bar for Certain Hours\nSay you want a full or partially full open bar, but are expecting to have a lengthy reception. Perhaps your budget can only cover up to so much. If this ends up being the case, don't worry, you still have an option. Many venue bars or vendors will provide you with the ability to have an open bar for a certain amount of time. For example, it will usually open for service immediately as your cocktail hour begins, run through the cocktail hour, then stay open for the first hour or two the reception. After that, it typically becomes a cash bar, in which guests pay for their remaining drinks individually.\n\n![Zola: How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/72HwpcWjht9IZluxajuyqN/373062c6414445622adac74eec1731b1/inline_shutterstock.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Shutterstock\n\n## Other Things to Consider\nNow that you've got the basics of an open bar down, let's chat about some important details that shouldn't go undiscussed.\n\n### Who’s Handling Bar Service?\nWhile many traditional wedding venues provide their own alcohol and bar (think hotels and event spaces), many others don't. When discussing your options with potential venues, ask for a description of what they have available. If it's your initial in-person meeting or venue tour, simply ask if the venue provides a bar, bartender, and bar back. If they do, request more detailed information (ingredients, operable hours, etc.) in your venue proposal.\n\nIf the venue doesn't have their own bar on site (think parks, gardens, and estates), you'll need to hire a vendor separately. The downside to this is having to coordinate with an extra vendor. However, the upside is that you may be able to further customize your options and hours, costing you less money in the long run.\n\n### What Should Be Included?\nWe already took a look at what's included in different potential bar packages, but for simplicity and remembrance's sake, we've include a quick cheat sheet below. As mentioned before, this is generally what's included in these kinds of packages. We highly recommend talking in detail with your vendor about what they specifically have available.\n\n- __Full open bar:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, an assortment of regular or premium liquors (typically vodka, tequila, gin, rum, bourbon, and whiskey), mixers (e.g. tonic water, club soda, juices, and margarita mix), and some non-alcoholic beverages (e.g. sodas, flat water, and sparkling water). You can also ask them to include a champagne or similar for an additional cost.\n- __Limited open bar:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic beverages, mixers, and limited or no spirits.\n- __Beer, wine, signature drinks:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and a few specifically selected and pre-discussed mixed drinks.\n- __Beer and wine:__ Beer selections, a premium red and premium white wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.\n\nAside from the standard ingredients, your open bar should include the appropriate glasses or cups, bottle openers, shakers, corkscrews, garnishes, ice, ice tongs, ice buckets, coolers, rags, and cocktail napkins.\n\n### How Much Does an Open Bar Cost Per Person?\nThe price-per-person can vary based on your location, venue, and alcohol package. On average, the standard cost-per-person can be from $11 to $45 a head, with the average being around $20-$30. For a generalized list of what you might expect, look below. These are the average costs per person, depending on your drink package.\n\n- __Full open bar:__ $35-$45/person\n- __Limited open bar:__ $20-$25/person\n- __Beer and wine only:__ $15-20/person\n\n### How Do You Handle Gratuity?\nOne important additional thing to ask your venue or alcohol vendor about is gratuity. Depending on the vendor, a gratuity cost may or may not already be added into your bar package and listed in your initial contract. Note that this isn't the same thing as a service fee. If it isn't, you'll need to determine how you plan to calculate and pay it.\n\nIf a bar and bartending services are included as a part of your venue or caterer's package, you can expect gratuity to be a line item in your contract. However, if it isn't—or if you hired out your bartender separately—vendor etiquette suggest that you tip ten to fifteen percent of your pre-tax alcohol package bill. That being said, a tip is extra money based on met or exceeded expectations. If your bartender(s) did a phenomenal job all evening, consider tipping an amount that reflects that.\n\n## The Pros and Cons of an Open Bar\nFinal cost aside, there are various pro's and con's to hosting an open bar at your wedding. Whether money is of no issue or you've figured it all out, but need some more to think about, consider the following.\n\n- __Pro: Guests will appreciate it__. The biggest pro of having an open bar is the satisfaction of your guests. Your loved ones are sure to appreciate the freedom to enjoy themselves without fussing with cash or worrying about their budget.\n- __Pro: It keeps things moving.__ When you have an open bar, bartenders don't need to worry about processing tons of separate transactions. Everything's already paid for. Guests, too, don't need to waste time fishing around their wallets. This results in a faster line, which in turn results in more time the wedding guests can dance, chat, and celebrate.\n- __Con: Guests can over-indulge.__ A legitimate fear of having an open bar is the potential for a guest or guests to take advantage of it. Too-drunk friends or family run the risk of ruining your night, if not making a temporary scene. To avoid this, you can ask the bartender to limit certain individuals or have a drink ticket system in place.\n- __Con: It's more expensive for you.__ Typically, the hosts of the wedding are the ones responsible for picking up the open bar tab (usually before the wedding takes place). With a cash bar, your guests share in some of the financial burden. However, with an open bar, you pay for everyone to enjoy.\n\nGenerally, in the end a cash bar might help you save money, but an open bar will ensure everyone has a stress-free, good time.\n\n## Tips to Save Money on an Open Bar\nAt the end of the day, you might decide that an open bar is the right call for your wedding reception. However, that doesn't mean you can't still try to save some money. Here are a handful of our favorite tips when it comes to bringing down that bottom line.\n\n- __Ask if you can BYOB.__ As we previously mentioned, supplying your own alcohol can drastically cut down costs. Venues won't always allow this, but it's worth the ask, even if you want a limited bar and to bring your own champagne or rosé.\n- __Implement drink tickets.__ When only a certain amount of alcohol can be consumed, only a certain amount of ingredients are needed. This will likely end up being less than what's usually included in a full open bar, naturally bringing the price down.\n- __Ask if you can exclude certain guests.__ Not many venues will allow this, but it's worth the ask. If you have a handful of people who don't drink, consider asking your vendor if they can avoid being counted in the total per-person cost.\n\nAs you can likely tell, multiple factors come into play when landing on a bottom line for your [open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) costs. What options are available to you, how much you can customize, and gratuity all come into play and should be given special attention before making a decision. However, once you've gone over the fine details with the appropriate vendor, you should have no problem coming to the best decision for your wedding. We're betting your guests would cheers to that.","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"One way to save money on your big day is to have a cash bar wedding. Our guide includes cash bar etiquette and invitation wording samples. ","title":"Cash Bar at Wedding Explained + 6 Tips to Save Money","slug":"how-to-save-money-with-a-cash-bar-at-your-wedding","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg","altText":"Cash Bar at Your Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar. ","title":"Open Bar Weddings: A Guide","slug":"open-bar-weddings-a-guide","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/6b6158268ae9bec7fea520eeb46fa96a/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg","altText":"A guide to Open Bar Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:56.739Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"what-drinks-are-served-at-cocktail-hour","title":"What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?","excerpt":"Discover how to perfectly tailor your cocktail service to the desires of your guests with these classic cocktail hour beverage options. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-08T03:27:42.035Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3pJUzn1VVoJmNfRmQ1iYme/16a33feb4497c033723bf9da0a402e42/HERO_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg","altText":"Glasses with wine bottle"},"heroCredit":"Zola Inc","body":"Picture this—you and the love of your life have just committed yourselves to each other in a ceremonial display of affection. The ceremony went off without a hitch, and you couldn't be happier with how your wedding day is turning out. It would stand to reason that you are filled with unfathomable joy, and understandably giddy with love. In other words, you’re ready to celebrate this milestone event, so let the celebration begin.\n\nWhile your wedding day is most certainly all about you and your partner, once the ceremony is over, the day shifts from a reverent affair to a joyous celebration. Don't forget that you have invited others to share in the happiness you’re now celebrating, and it’s your job as host to ensure that they are well taken care of. \n\nThe planning you put into your wedding will shape how your guests can enjoy themselves during the reception. The happiness you experience in the minutes and hours after your wedding ceremony is mirrored by your guests' shared desire to celebrate that happiness. It’s vital to remember that the delight of your guests is an essential part of the reception. Their happiness hinges on the cocktail hour.\n\n## Drinks That Are Served at Wedding Cocktail Hours\nOne of the most critical pieces in the puzzle that makes up the perfect reception is the cocktail hour. The cocktail hour is the foundation on which the rest of your reception will stand. Ask anyone who has ever attended a wedding, and they will tell you that a well-planned cocktail hour can make or break a reception. \n\nUsually, a cocktail party includes some form of [entertainment](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-entertain-guests-between-the-wedding-and-reception \"How to Entertain Guests Between the Wedding and Reception\"), socialization, hors d’oeuvres, cocktail party games, and, of course, libations. The wedding menu is different for every cocktail hour, and it’s up to the newlyweds to decide what kind of drinks will be served. While there’s a wide variety of drinks to choose from, there are some standard cocktail options that are outlined in this [wedding alcohol list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding \"The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List: Power Ranking the Best Adult Wedding Beverages\") below.\n\n### Beer and Wine\nServing beer and wine during a cocktail hour is a common practice at most weddings. Beer and wine might not be your guests' first choice in cocktail hour beverages, but it will undoubtedly do the trick. \n\nServing beer and wine at the cocktail hour ensures that no one gets too crazy, too quickly. The last thing you want is for people to be doing tequila shots before cocktail hour food is served. A best practice for a successful cocktail hour is to keep things light. Light hors d 'oeuvres pair perfectly with a small selection of beer and wine.\n\nRemember, there’s still a long night of toasts, speeches, and other traditional reception events to look forward to. These events will go a lot smoother if no one is inebriated. Ensuring that your guests don’t get too intoxicated too early is just one of many reasons to wait on serving hard liquor. \n\nOne of the other reasons for going with beer and wine is that it’s a far more cost-friendly option for you. Hard liquor is expensive, and while beer and wine are not a cheap option, they’re far more budget-friendly than a bottle of vodka or gin. \n\nTypically, couples who choose to do beer and wine will offer a red and a white wine option and a domestic and imported beer option. Offering options is a great way to keep your guests happy, even when you’re limiting the type of alcohol that you're serving.\n\nBeing that they’re both budget-friendly and helpful with incident prevention, beer and wine are excellent cocktail hour beverage options.\n\n### Signature Cocktails\nWedding signature cocktails are a fantastic way to serve liquor without getting into too much trouble, and they can capture your [wedding theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes \" 70 Wedding Themes to Inspire Every Type of Couple | Zola\"). Offering a signature wedding cocktail or two is a great way to serve liquor without being too aggressive about it. Many couples pair their signature cocktail with beer and wine service, and it’s common for a wedding couple to provide a free signature cocktail at a cash bar. \n\nYour signature cocktail, or cocktails, can be anything of your choosing. From a classic Old Fashioned to a modern twist on a mint julep, the signature cocktail should be a reflection of the couple. Some couples offer two signature cocktails—one of the bride's choosing and one of the groom's choosing. Often the difference in taste between the two will provide a big enough range for your guests to be happy with at least one of the offerings. \n\n![What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4AGj2waCvwn0bLGDZBPi1t/b81bb04593324cdd635c18aff4a2377d/INLINE2_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg) *Photo Credits //* Zola Inc\n\n### The Open Bar\nAsk any event planner, caterer, or venue, and they will tell you that an open bar during cocktail hour is risky business. Here are a few of the pros and cons of an open bar during the wedding cocktail hour:\n\n__Pros:__\n- It's free booze, and people will be really impressed by your hospitality.\n- There will be little complaining about selection or variety.\n\n__Cons:__\n- You run the risk of overserving your guests. \n- Opening the bar this early on will put a big dent in your budget.\n\nWhile it may seem like a good idea to offer your guests a variety of free alcohol, doing this early in the evening may end in disaster. If you’re dead set on providing an open bar, try going the signature cocktail route with beer and wine during the cocktail hour. This is referred to as a modified open bar. \n\nWith the modified open bar, your guests won't have to pay for a drink all night, yet you control the types of drinks they have access to. This method is not only useful for keeping your costs down, but it's also effective for keeping your guests sober enough to remember the first dance. \n\nSave the full bar for after dinner, as it will be a welcome surprise for your guests. No one will complain about free beer and wine during cocktail hour, especially if there’s a signature cocktail, and you still look like a hero for opening the bar later on. For more information, see our guide on *how much does an open bar at a wedding cost?*\n\n### The Cash Bar\nLike the open bar, the cash bar provides your guests with an assortment of spirits that they can choose to indulge in. The difference is that a cash bar often limits the number of trips each individual will take to the bar. \n\nBecause your guests will be paying for their own cocktails, they will be much more judicious with the amount of liquor they’re consuming. This method of serving drinks gives people the freedom to drink what they choose, while mitigating the risk of someone becoming intoxicated too early in the evening's festivities.\n\nStandard practice for cash bars is to offer one or two freebies, such as a domestic beer or a red wine, with everything else being out-of-pocket for your guests. Remember, you can always pull an audible and open up the bar later in the evening during dancing. \n\nOften with a cash bar, drink service will shut down completely during dinner. It is tradition for wine to be served with dinner, and, as a result, the bar is often closed for this portion of the evening's festivities. Some couples will keep one bar open during dinner service, but only for beer and wine in the rare case that the wine being served is not preferable to a guest.\n\n### Non-Alcoholic Options\nWhatever kind of drink service you offer to your guests, make sure that soft drinks are free. Whether your reception is an adult-only affair, or whether there are kids in attendance, no one should have to pay for mixers. \n\nMake sure that you offer those who don’t drink alcohol something to sip on other than water. This is often overlooked, and those guests who just want a soft drink will be grateful for your thoughtfulness. If you really want to go above and beyond for your non-drinking guests, a signature mocktail is a fun way to keep it classy for those keeping it PG. \n\nMost catering companies will offer you the option of serving coffee and tea later in the evening. We recommend you absolutely offer your guests coffee, especially if alcohol is served. You never know who may need a cup of coffee late in the evening, and it’s far better to have it and not need it than the other way around.\n\n## Know Your Audience\nYou created your guest list, so it’s up to you to decide what kind of drinks you want to serve during cocktail hour. You know your family and friends better than anyone. Your insight into their habits as consumers will ultimately play a significant role in the decision you make regarding your cocktail hour. \n\nIt’s important to note that when deciding what drinks to serve at your cocktail hour, you should make your choice based on what is best for your wedding. However, what’s best for your wedding, and the popular choice (ie., an open bar) may not be in alignment. \n\nIt may be strange to think of yourself as the host, but remember that this wedding reception is your celebration. As such, it’s your job to find a balance between showing your guests a good time and ensuring that the event isn't derailed by an alcohol-fueled scene. As stated earlier, you won't have to worry about any of these things on the day of, but planning for them ahead of time is crucial. \n\nWhatever drinks you choose to serve, make sure you get to enjoy them too. Your wedding is a celebration for you and about you, and you deserve something nice. Whether you want to have a special bottle of champagne set aside or do some shots with the wedding party, it's important that you take advantage of a night you will never forget.\n","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:02.594Z"}],"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages","description":"Can't decide between an open bar, cash bar, or no host bar? Maybe you're considerig a dry wedding? Find expert-approved guides to bar services for weddings, signature drink ideas, and everything else libations and drinks."},"topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors","description":"If you need help choosing a wedding venue or hiring your wedding vendors, you've come to the right place. Find advice and tips on wedding photography and videography, catering and food, bar services and drinks, music and more. We guide you as you create your wedding dream team.","subtopics":[{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues","description":"Choosing a wedding venue is an imporant part of planning your wedding-- many other decisions can't be made until you know where you'll say \"I do\". If you don't know where to start or are having trouble making a decision we have ideas, inspiration, and advice to help you land on the perfect place."},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Photos & video","slug":"photos-video","description":"Wedding photography and videography lets you capture the memories for years to come. From engagement photo shoots to choosing the right wedding photographer to social media content curation, find the advice and inspiration you need to document the wedding of your dreams."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Food & catering","slug":"food-catering"},"slug":"wedding-food-ideas","title":"75 Best Wedding Food Ideas for Your Big Day","excerpt":"Craft your dream wedding menu with our creative food ideas. Find inspiration for delicious dishes to delight guests on your special day.","publishedAt":"2024-11-08T03:00-12:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Yh2thV4KikLWgKFwM1DDJ/97bed3c6cb2c54e71d511ac0803d112b/wedding-food-hero__1_.jpg","altText":"White plate with assorted bruschetta."},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com","tldr":"__Inside this article:__\n\n- Best buffet ideas for every theme \n- Entree options for your reception \n- Finger food ideas for cocktail hour \n- Wedding food ideas on a budget\n- Delicious dessert ideas","body":"__TLDR:__\n- According to our [First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-first-look-report-2024), more couples are prioritizing their menus and accommodating specialty diets.\n- Our 51 ideas let you get creative with interesting desserts, buffet stations, and plated meals.\n- Select a menu based on your budget, food needs, and your caterer's advice.\n\n## Ready for lots of wedding food ideas?\n\nAre you coming up short on wedding food ideas? Your menu is one of the trickiest decisions you’ll make during the wedding planning process. Therefore, make sure to ask your venue about any limitations they may have before you decide. Some venues use in-house catering, others charge a fee to bring in outside vendors, and some have a preferred vendors list that you will need to choose from. \n\nOnce you find out all the details, make a list of you and your sweetheart’s favorite dishes and take it to your caterer. They will be able to help you blend in your faves with their expertise to create a [wedding menu](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-menu-card-ideas) that is delicious and unique to your event.\n\nTo get an idea about what your guests would like to eat, send options in your wedding invitations and give your caterer an accurate count. Whether you want to include classics like chicken or beef, or serve up something unique like vegan burgers, these wedding food ideas are sure to inspire.\n\n## A peek into Zola's First Look Report\nCurious how much other couples are thinking about their wedding food ideas and options? Take a look at what our 7000 surveyed couples said in our [First Look Report](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/2024-wedding-trends-zolas-first-look-report-data-deep-dive):\n- 28.54% are willing to splurge on catering.\n- A mere 3.14% are considering making cake and desserts a spending priority.\n- Concerning personalizing their big day, 21.82% of couples want catering that suits their likes and dietary preferences.\n- When couples were asked if they could change or update anything about their wedding planning journey, 32.09% said they wanted to get rid of the diet culture surrounding weddings.\n\n## Wedding buffet ideas \nOne of the biggest trends in wedding receptions is the inclusion of interactive food stations during the cocktail hour or as the main course. These buffet tables can be as casual as a popcorn bar, or as intricate as a grazing station filled with fine meats and cheeses. The sky's the limit with these wedding buffet ideas. Choose the best examples that fit with your wedding theme, and use them as inspiration for your interactive food stations.\n\n### 1. Brunch bar\n![01-brunch-bar.](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3CQfD9V16vKTQkyD5XXHP8/85bad2992474be90e7cd0f3ef53769ef/01-brunch-bar..jpg)\n\nWhether your wedding is happening earlier in the day or you and your partner are big fans of brinner (breakfast for dinner), a brunch spread is sure to make your guests happy. Include savory options like biscuits and gravy alongside sweet jams and fruits so there is something for everyone. This is a buffet-style experience for your guests that is a crowd pleaser.\n\n### 2. Popcorn table\n![02-popcorn-bar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/WYa18vDCEjtnAPosvTWt5/e3d5495817cbd07ec4669b91ca546f01/02-popcorn-bar.jpg)\n\nServe this classic snack with a twist during your cocktail hour or as a late-night snack. Your guests can happily munch away on this finger food while mingling (and your pocketbook will thank you!). \n\n### 3. Ice cream bar\n![03-ice-cream-bar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2jiI6FKK7ihUIhOsTtCNNo/c842ed7d45a5c585177c97854a982669/03-ice-cream-bar.jpg)\nSource: Gift of Hospitality\n\nYou scream, I scream, we all scream for—well, you know how it goes. At the end of the night, there is no better way to treat your guests than with an ice cream station. Add a special touch with some fun toppings like hot fudge, sprinkles, or candy.\n\n### 4. Waffle table\n![04-waffle-table](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/12efH2W2ZZKnws6125RfpW/e558286c4d7acc90aed9b31f7b30a35d/04-waffle-table.jpg)\nSource: Megan Rei Photography\n\nWaffle buffets are the perfect option for weddings at any time of the day. Add a few breakfast options for early celebrations or the iconic fried chicken and waffles pairing for evening events. Waffles are definitely a unique, unexpected wedding food.\n\n### 5. Pizza platter\n![magnolia-and-ember-wedding-pizza-bar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3KuqeIeva1gMxs3iraJWQp/f7566b2385d689d9593f22886bb30fd5/05-magnolia-and-ember-wedding-pizza-bar.jpg)\nSource: Magnolia + Ember\n\nWhat better way to celebrate with your amor than to serve pizza pie? This easy wedding buffet idea is a crowd favorite and a great way to cater to a variety of tastes. You can serve classics like pepperoni and cheese, or you can get creative with vegan and vegetarian options.\n\n### 6. Taco table\n![06-taco-table](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3yb3iSQ5zaSg64CTTe1rMH/4cb454880154e37b1e5987c1c6ec3fa9/06-taco-table.jpg)\n\nTaco buffets are a great way to serve crowds of any size. Make sure to combine classic favorites, like guacamole and pico to gallo, with unique additions, like mushrooms and mango, to make your spread tasty and memorable. Your guests will love it!\n\n### 7. Donut station\n![06-donut-station](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/538SbociMQqGwLA7N51D4H/bebfeae9bb248419c3465f3e24efc846/06-donut-station.jpg)\nSource: Sarah Brookhart Photography\n\nDonut walls and spreads have grown in popularity over the years for their fun flavors and, of course, their Insta-worthiness. This buffet idea is perfect for couples who prefer wedding cake alternatives. Add gluten free options, too.\n\n### 8. Salad bar\n![08-salad-bar](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5aQHSddbRLOjQa4bGPEZ5R/c7a816efa119e9f8304e6ae6834c7571/08-salad-bar.jpg)\nSource: Cater Cow\n\nA salad bar is a fabulous [wedding buffet idea](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/buffet-vs-plated-which-style-of-catering-to-choose) for all the veggie lovers out there. Place your basics, such as spinach and romaine, alongside toppings like rice, fruits, vegetables, and dressings. Having healthy menu options is a must.\n\n### 9. Grazing table\n![09-grazing-table](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/dOSXFx0cpbyFoKqrRGIC7/0463b8577dcb42c15a3d53a7d746bf95/09-grazing-table.jpg)\nSource: Grazing Acres\n\nIf you and your partner enjoy the finer things in life, what better way to celebrate than with charcuterie? These giant meat and cheese spreads have mesmerized wedding guests for the past few years and are sure to be a hit.\n\n### 10. Bagel buffet\n![10-bagel-buffet](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/JBxMxnnkmJQYGE70Hrpob/507e0ef2b8233ceb9ddb1c4968a8f7f1/10-bagel-buffet.jpg)\n \n\nThis one of our wedding food ideas gives your guests the freedom to create their perfect snack to tempt their taste buds. Whether they love lox or prefer peanut butter, there is sure to be something for everyone at the bagel bar.\n\n## Wedding entree ideas\nWhether you want to serve a plated meal or buffet style food, the entree is the toughest decision. The best way to go is to choose two or three main entrees and let your guests decide for themselves. This will allow them to enjoy their favorite item and cater to any dietary preferences that your guest might have.\n\n### 11. Steak and salad\n![11-steak-and-salad](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6lyLaC2vZBV0h6MdCs13wJ/f6c477317ff548312d28f8b5d85f82b9/11-steak-and-salad.jpg)\nSource: Fannetastic Food\n\nSteak and salad is the perfect option for summer weddings when you don’t want to weigh your guests down with heavy sides. Talk to your caterer about infusing fruit in the salad or dressing for a pop of color and flavor at your food stations.\n\n### 12. Kebabs\n![12-kebabs](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PTCej9e28p1f7sZCfE2xR/33f0461c224633ff22a3eb68947549b0/12-kebabs.jpg)\nSource: Midwest Foodie\n\nKebabs are convenient entrees If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding. These tasty skewers allow your guests to enjoy their meal on the go during summer weddings. Try including a vegan skewer with mushrooms in place of beef or chicken to give your guests meatless options.\n\n### 13. Fried chicken\n![13-fried-chicken](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5084eKVp6HDWYlG6qvy0GB/f859fb300065f88ccb44b6306685a0e9/13-fried-chicken.jpg)\nSource: Spicepaw\n\nFried chicken is a staple at weddings, especially in the south. This tasty entree is sure to fill your friends and family and remind them of home. Fried chicken is also great if you intend to serve each table family style.\n\n### 14. Shrimp\n![14-shrimp](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VNaF8vZwl5Bt9QrT0nUCn/60ad3db0417688e055168215e87d5985/14-shrimp.jpg)\n\nThis seafood favorite can be paired with various sides to create the perfect wedding plate any time of the year. Try adding rice, pasta, or grits for a southern twist on your dining experience.\n\n### 15. Salmon\n![15-salmon](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1iK5Q1lqerG3MFlPEUH67a/2f436289c0a06ae2e0bbfaff4a190745/15-salmon.jpg)\n\nFish has been a wedding classic for years. Customize the glaze based on the season for a fresh and unique twist. Try a bright lemon garlic glaze in the summer or something savory like a red wine mushroom sauce for the colder months.\n\n### 16. Steak\n![16-steak](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5drqibnzgFTCeBHjry5ANV/f876a02c6bae3424d913eda2724035e4/16-steak.jpg)\n\nThis wedding classic is perfect for treating your guests. Talk with your caterer about different options for choosing the cut. Some timeless choices include tenderloin, t-bone, rib-eye, and New York strip.\n\n### 17. Lobster\n![17-lobster](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1r87Tz8J8vBU7p2Q9Zh01A/948805411ee1abe90d012b9b28e00b93/17-lobster.jpg)\n\nIf you want to serve your guests the best of the best, offer a lobster option. Place the lobster atop a bed of risotto or serve with butter on your wedding day. Make sure to include a second choice for those who are allergic to shellfish.\n\n### 18. Lasagna \n![18-lasagna](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7yJlWAn3z8hvtQWTjJpSMx/15b10a313a539163bd812b1687bb6f12/18-lasagna.jpg)\n\nThis Italian classic is perfect for weddings in colder months. One of the best parts about lasagna is the easy swaps your caterer can make to offer a vegan zucchini option so everyone can take part. Include varieties for all of your guests to enjoy.\n\n### 19. Spaghetti squash\n![19-spaghetti-squash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/XJp8LnSD3JQz0cETewAu8/51f90ed29ae1d6469c9e238ee6389e1e/19-spaghetti-squash.jpg)\n\nThese amazing veggies can turn into a gluten-free pasta dish in under an hour. Ask your caterer what creative wedding food ideas they have for these veggies. Whether you serve spaghetti or chicken parmesan, your guests are sure to be thrilled.\n\n### 20. Lamb\n![20-lamb](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JCoWnEoKGeymfVlTvzauM/321b5a1dcbeff200971b117acf9a3792/20-lamb.jpg)\n \n\nIf you would like to serve your guests a nice entree and are tired of beef and chicken, try to incorporate lamb into your feast. Whether you choose to pair it with shrimp or veggies, this unique option will impress your guests.\n\n## Wedding finger food ideas\nWhen you’re mingling at weddings, you just feel better with something to munch on. Whether you plan to serve hors d'oeuvres during [cocktail hour](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour) or throughout the night, your guests will appreciate each bite. Here are a few crowd favorites that will keep your guests happy all night long.\n\n### 21. Caprese cups\n![21-appetizer-cups](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2tipjfYZGOfUb2RIsEwbxA/3909232e2354b9ee3c92eadb71a88905/21-appetizer-cups.jpg)\n\nIf you and your partner plan to feed your guests Italian cuisine, then these Caprese cups are the perfect savory appetizer for cocktail hour. Your guests can carry their snacks in one hand while talking to friends and family. \n\n### 22. Bruschetta \n![22-sliders](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1HVzexLHwBxsqvXTrFqNLr/b7598fa25d610ca6f840b9d0e90818b0/22-sliders.jpg)\n\nConsider serving bruschetta during down times for a quick and easy appetizer. The options are endless for these bite-sized snacks, so speak with your caterer about their specialties for wedding receptions. They will help you decide on the perfect ingredients.\n\n### 23. Sliders\n![23-sliders](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4MHd4kENW2HSwtcES7yLFb/c92ac365f9e6d16dba329644e4a767fb/23-sliders.jpg)\n\nSliders are everything you love about hamburgers and sandwiches all in one bite. Offer a variety of meat and [vegetarian options](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/menu-ideas-for-vegetarian-weddings) to choose from so all of your guests can enjoy these snacks.\n\n### 24. Mini tacos\n![24-mini-tacos](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/RHgUZImqQ6V6u1AeT06UA/319fc50eab62e366cb9fbd77008fd916/24-mini-tacos.jpg)\n\nTiny tacos will be the talk of any event. They’re delicious and adorable — what more could you ask for? Serve these tacos with traditional toppings, or get creative and include dessert toppings to mix things up.\n\n### 25. Veggie roll-ups\n![25-veggie-roll-ups](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5sgTkTncKsMVTICfT5dD7W/4c2c67eb15420239e00fa236e45126b6/25-veggie-roll-ups.jpg)\n\nFor some lighter fare, mix in some fresh vegetable apps. Your guests will love popping these zucchini roll-ups in their mouths in between heavier options. You could also try using summer squash or cucumber for some variety.\n\n### 26. Meatballs\n![26-meat-balls](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1OKF3EXuf5OURI95Ugolzj/63b3885102b2b4dd62d9f344b3f597e8/26-meat-balls.jpg)\n\nFor a simple and cheap wedding food ideas option, talk to your caterer about including meatballs in your event. Choose among beef, pork, turkey, or falafel (or some of each), and don’t forget a tasty sauce on top.\n\n### 27. French fries\n![27-french-fries](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/evOOXCsubtbVcfrhBHNzT/bd5799c40d909fd704b7108e99467cc7/27-french-fries.jpg)\nSource: Chrisman Studios\n\nThis popular appetizer gives guests a savory and filling bite that is full of flavor. Put your fries in cones for easy handling and offer unique dips like aioli, queso, or flavored mustard.\n\n### 28. Spring rolls\n![28-spring-rolls](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Uu7vTFZHWLZjIilHSvFU5/c06dba82e71b9f84075df5317f8353de/28-spring-rolls.jpg)\nSource: Heidi Lau\n\nVeggie-filled spring rolls are a great vegetarian option for cocktail hour and are mess-free so guests can grab and go without a thought. Make sure to include mini cups of sweet and sour sauce for guests who want it.\n\n### 29. Flatbread\n![29-flat-bread](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1kQcOtSahmSChOC3aYarwC/61ef744151287cdc2da520e03eced486/29-flat-bread.jpg)\n\nWhether you’re in love with the classic margarita flatbread, or you prefer sweet balsamic and chicken toppings, there is sure to be a slice for everyone. If you can’t choose, include a little bit of everything. The more, the merrier!\n\n### 30. Grilled cheese bites\n![30-grilled-cheese-bites](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/OGvdGFxPFgHTGZZuf9mKF/58d1dd53f58276c737e288cfd6b921f5/30-grilled-cheese-bites.jpg)\nSource: Next Exit Photography\n\nBetween the crunchy bread and melty cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic. Pair these tiny sammies with shot glasses of tomato soup for a match made in heaven. These cheesy bites will capture the hearts (and the stomachs) of your guests.\n\n## Cheap wedding food ideas\n \nEveryone wants to serve their guests the best of the best, but sometimes steak and lobster just aren’t in [the budget](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget). Just because you can’t spend much money on your catering doesn't mean you have to settle for boring meals. Use these ideas as inspiration and work with your caterer to come up with the perfect menu.\n\n### 31. Fried chicken and gravy\n![31-fried-chicken-and-gravy](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1G2ZrRh1rRuKKm1serNHPY/f57620d81daab0480c7ff364e8578d6d/31-fried-chicken-and-gravy.jpg)\nSource: Zona Cooks\n\nThe best part about serving [southern comfort food](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-southern-wedding-traditions) at your wedding is that it is filling and will require less food than others meals. Fried chicken and gravy is not only cost-effective, it’s delicious. The creamy gravy and crispy chicken are a match made in heaven.\n\n### 32. Brisket\n![32-brisket](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UMXy9MLOk3YFV5ZGjNCbm/0f466bf1f01c3cff36542f581b979daf/32-brisket.jpg)\n\nBBQ is also a fantastic choice if your catering budget is limited. Whether you’re hosting a [backyard wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/backyard-wedding) or ballroom bash, your guests will enjoy this menu that’s tasty and hearty. \n\n### 33. Soup\n![33-soup](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3yijfE4jFXm1qUQhCr7SFz/502243e64a20515bc3aa28515618f1d3/33-soup.jpg)\n\nSoup is the perfect way to warm up your guests if you’re planning a winter wedding. Talk to your caterer about including a meat-heavy soup like a stew, a cream-based soup like broccoli and cheddar, and a brothy option like chicken noodle. \n\n### 34. Tacos\n![34-tacos](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3J7jY5euXXm0M3OxUuUGKg/8bdef773ec2ba5ddd6fe6e4f2c4f6794/34-tacos.jpg)\n\nTacos are a crowd favorite and cost-effective. The perfect combination! Set up your taco station with unique ingredients like mushrooms or mango to make it unforgettable.\n\n### 35. Spaghetti\n![35-spaghetti](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1OsBEPfNVXOtV5oLLrMBsT/085f5a439ed3175e810c6eee5a0dc1e4/35-spaghetti.jpg)\n\nIf you and your honey love to celebrate with pasta, serve your guests spaghetti or alfredo. These options are filling, delicious, and are made of cost-effective ingredients. Serve your dish with a side of garlic bread for the final touch.\n\n### 36. Burgers\n![36-burgers](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2A7mnaWvcse0A2U6KjxAnM/1fe03fed8d7ee8172360e873bf351b38/36-burgers.jpg)\n\nNowadays, many large weddings have pivoted to intimate backyard celebrations. With the change in size came different menu options. If you’re itching for the backyard wedding of your dreams, lean into the theme with burgers. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings.\n\n### 37. Vegan burgers\n![37-vegan-burgers](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4jUWRc3oAzf4NJV64VAQSI/673f9e68aeffb3cf79298ae8d8185db1/37-vegan-burgers.jpg)\n\nIf your friends and family would rather swap veggies for meat, [vegan](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/vegan-wedding) burgers can be even more cost-effective than beef burgers. Try portobello mushrooms in place of a beef patty or costly, plant-based meat.\n\n### 38. Fajitas\n![38-fajitas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4RhprxESnRHr8eLQHeh9SC/eae5311c2f185dc91ee17b034e4649f6/38-fajitas.jpg)\n\nSimilarly to tacos, fajitas are a great option for couples on a budget. The ingredients are affordable and filling, and guests can customize their meals to fit their diet. Make sure to include a mix of meats, vegetables, and other toppings to keep it interesting.\n\n### 39. Chili\n![39-chili](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Ak4gIS9Z0HLNhFBsUT4Mp/26fcd5600968bb5fa7d7643ba9093b7c/39-chili.jpg)\n\nWhether you’re on team beans or team no beans in your chili, everyone loves to love this hearty meal. Serve chili with baked potatoes, bratwurst, or over rice for a low-cost and yummy meal.\n\n### 40. Fish and chips\n![40-fried-catfish](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/57geYzrpBsTZB42NlUqLb0/9e86590f06991b620442206dccc87b75/40-fried-catfish.jpg)\n \n\nIf your heart is set on serving fish at your nuptials, consider offering fish and chips. It’s substantially cheaper than serving salmon or cod, and with a French fries and some lemon, you can serve your guests a plate of comfort food.\n\n## Wedding dessert ideas\nTraditional wedding desserts consist of wedding cakes or cupcakes. While these classics are still a staple in many weddings, couples are starting to use the dessert table to showcase their favorite sweets instead. Whether you and your honey want to keep it classy or think outside of the box, these wedding dessert ideas will be the talk of the event.\n\n### 41. Wedding cake\n![41-wedding-cake](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1hJtAp5Vl07PIcT9ZCfibR/6994dd492f3df55571d4745baeee39cf/41-wedding-cake.jpg)\n\nWedding cakes are just as tasty as they are beautiful, and they’re a wedding staple for a reason. If you and your partner want to serve wedding cake, [choose flavors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake) and icings that compliment your theme. Pre-cut the cake for easy serving.\n\n### 42. Cookies\n![42-cookies](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3jYmTGDaxv6bUpmBmHxsbP/7540acf2a7bc269f53d66acd5fa3ff9f/42-cookies.jpg)\nSource: The View From Great Island\n\nCookies are a great choice for wedding desserts because you can customize them to fit your big day perfectly. Add edible flowers for a romantic theme or use your alma mater logo to excite the super fans.\n\n### 43. Cupcakes\n![43-cupcakes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/35Arq9DgwRA5Ae1fzOIBSF/7918eb3546cfc3c44c10175fde249cbc/43-cupcakes.jpg)\n\nRegular or mini cupcakes are another popular dessert idea. These desserts give your guests all the flavor of a traditional wedding cake in a portable package. Cupcakes also allow you to choose multiple flavor options if you can’t pick your favorite.\n\n### 44. Popsicles\n![44-popsicles](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/QW9Iqg5wkyLOBpO3rai1B/c7e64b7b343294ad2ef9a2369159b083/44-popsicles.jpg)\n\nPopsicles are an ideal dessert for hot summer weddings to help your guests cool down. Try experimenting with unique flavors and ingredients like the edible flowers and liquor in these boozy pops!\n\n### 45. Hand pies\n![45-hand-pies](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1fhe5in4jQsDRErstmV08g/59c0c4fa0ce7e78f28d714a747a511e2/45-hand-pies.jpg)\n\nMany couples choose to celebrate with pie instead of cake, but serving guests the flaky dessert can get messy. Hand pies solve that problem by containing all of the fruity goodness in a neat package.\n\n### 46. Mini pies\n![46-mini-pies](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XDH57uIgYupIjtx7jBg3X/17c97437504344c9ecdb7e8bd37e8bb0/46-mini-pies.jpg)\nSource: AllSpice\n\nIf you would rather keep the classic pie shape instead, you can serve mini versions to your guests. These adorable pies are just as tasty as they are cute.\n\n### 47. Pot de crémes \n![47-pot-de-cremes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2opoOb7otmr8ub6SIPrKDI/859ac28a69094b5f702b0b68c70cbcc1/47-pot-de-cremes.jpg)\nSource: The View From Great Island\n\nThese sweets are a favorite for a reason. They have all the flavor that you love in pudding and custard, packed in small pots for convenient and adorable service. Try garnishing with flowers or fruits to add a special \n\n### 48. Mini cheesecakes\n![48-cheesecake](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1Z8nrVu3kkvrisj8z3W2Qf/1a933841674e687495aa9936a949d7c9/48-cheesecake.jpg)\nSource: Beautiful Life and Home\n\nBite-sized [cheesecakes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-5-wedding-desserts) give your guests the perfect amount of dessert with a beautiful presentation. Ask your caterer about tailoring these for your wedding season by opting for seasonal fruits.\n\n### 49. Macarons\n![49-macarons](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Cu5PXDK1PyttI7HXNY3ZR/5491beb600c7dc70f07e7ba9d7d99760/49-macarons.jpg)\n\nThese tasty, French treats make your wedding day feel extra fancy. Arrange your macarons in an appealing way to make them look just as wonderful as they taste.\n\n### 50. Strawberry shortcake\n![50-strawberry-shortcake](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/490hEimVaeuL3d7VFeePwF/bada963f9f95cbaa7a32457d6dc13ecf/50-strawberry-shortcake.jpg)\n\nStrawberry shortcake is an enjoyable summertime sweet during the hot months. The combination of shortcake, cream, and berries is the stuff of dreams. Serve these desserts in personal cups for a beautiful display and easy grabbing.\n\n### 51. Candy\n![51-candy](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4OjJLVXX6pPdLKZo0ADvWy/f74619f297e93049988d0d344a53bf8c/51-candy.jpg)\n\nIf baked goods aren’t your jam, set up a candy bar for dessert. Include your and your sweetheart’s favorite options and lay out some bags for your guests to fill. All of the kids (and the kids at heart) will be thrilled with this unique set up.\n\n## Ask the expert: What are the most popular wedding food ideas?\nWhen couples want to know what's on trend right now, having an expert weigh in is a must. That's why Zola asked Stephanie Ozcan, who is the managing partner of [Ferah Catering & Events](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering/ferah-catering-events), to tell us what couples are currently swooning over for their wedding receptions. Here's what she had to say with photos she provided of Ferah in action.\n\n### 52. Bacon-wrapped stuffed dates with chipotle aioli\n![Bacon Wrapped Dates](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1PjmdqfeLgoKrjouJLhVc1/5193293cd957084465cbbdeba7854acd/Bacon_Wrapped_Dates.jpg)\n\nOzcan says, \"This is by far, Ferah's best selling appetizer for both catering clients and our restaurant guests.\" She also says that couples describe it as the perfect combination with sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, crispy bacon, and chipotle aioli with a slight kick. \"These bite-size hors d'oeurves perfectly capture founder, Chef Burak's 'Tex-Med' cuisine: modern Mediterranean with a texan Twist which he created in 2016,\" she added.\n\n## 53. Spicy atom dip shooters with crispy pita bread\n![Spicy Atom Shooters](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3adqy3xtKwh362mRTQIVpG/0231ad4ed591af93a303480f9abb6537/Spicy_Atom_Shooters.jpg)\n\n\"Atom dip is a popular meze (cold dip) from Turkey that is included with dinner at many local seafood restaurants,\" says Ozcan. \"It features labneh (thick, creamy yogurt), dried chiles, and butter for a truly complex and flavorful bite. Paired with crispy pita bread, it is a popular appetizer for cocktail hour for clients who are not afraid to spice things up.\" Sounds like a delicious start to a reception.\n\n## 54. Risotto station\n![Risotto Action Station](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1amXyGcA87SLysa78wDy2v/40d0aa512fdc29fe0ad1573e2760044c/Risotto_Action_Station.jpg)\n\nRisotto is a time-consuming dish to make, but it's one that can be tailor-made live by your caterer. \"Ferah is chef-owned, and our clients love seeing chefs in action during their reception,\" says Ozcan. \"The risotto station allows guests to enjoy the freshest risotto with toppings of their choice.\" Ozcan added that Ferah uses a risotto base that is vegetarian and gluten-free, and toppings range from vegetables and herbs to meats and other proteins. \"This is a very inclusive option for guests with a variety of dietary preferences,\" she adds.\n\n## 55. Turkish coffee station\n![Turkish Coffee Station](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/q8qHlAPO2jcaaRZqE10uB/a52d43994556a0435a0a3ee4971e3703/Turkish_Coffee_Station.jpg)\n\nBecause Chef Burak Ozcan, Ferah's founder and co-owner, grew up in Turkey, he enjoys sharing his love of the country with others, and Turkish coffee is at the heart of it all. \"As an action station, it features a seasoned Turkish coffee maker plus the traditional Turkish delight,\" says Stephanie Ozcan. \"This is a fun, and interactive touch to kick a wedding reception into high gear with a strong caffeine boost.\" Many couples add a coffee station to complement their dessert stations.\n\n## 56. Drunken charcuterie display\n![Drunken Charcuterie](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2dLN9RHIfdDKDp6QeM9esT/2a5677026d5615ad3dae091d0b1e076e/Drunken_Charcuterie.jpg)\n\nWant to mix bar with buffet? This idea is perfect! \"This twist on the traditional charcuterie and cheese display is a unique concept that Chef Burak started when he started out as a chef at five-star resorts across the Mediterranean region,\" says Ozcan. \"In addition to the selection of cured meats and international cheese typically found in a charcuterie spread, a spice and liquor pairing is included for each cheese.\" How does it work? \"Guests dip the cheese in the liquor first and then the spice. It creates a very unique and flavorful pairing experience,\" clarifies Ozcan.\n\n## Wedding food ideas from Zola couples\nWe recently polled our Zola couples on social media about what they're serving at their wedding receptions. Here are the ideas we loved most. \n\n### Area-specific reception food ideas\n57. Mini tomato pies for an appetizer, which is a very traditional Southern dish. ~ Hartley, Charleston, SC\n58. Mini key lime pies, perfect for a south Florida wedding.\n59. Tostilocos, which is a crowd favorite in SoCal.\n60. Crab dip for a Baltimore wedding. ~ Cecily, Baltimore, MD\n61. Churro Mickey waffles while getting married at Disney.\n\n![Crab Dip](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mACwLvo0NnVF4RtQrDOP8/b52318082a46bdc37e6d222cb7deb080/Crab_Dip.jpg) Photo: [Paracel Events & Catering](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/paracel-events-catering)\n\n### Wedding food ideas for dietary needs\n62. Panang curry because it's gluten-free and vegan.\n63. Morocon vegetarian cakes for vegetarian friends with spice.\n64. Coconut spiced mashed sweet potatoes for our vegan friends.\n\n### Other ideas from Zola couples\n65. Soft pretzels after \"tying the knot.\"\n66. A late night snack of pretzel bites if you love a brewery and pretzel date. ~ Megan, Denver, CO\n67. Mash-tini bar with mashed potatoes in a martini glass with lots of toppings.\n68. Lamb lollipops for cocktail hour.\n69. Charctuerie grazing table with autumn flavors if you're on a budget.\n70. Apple cider donuts for a fall wedding.\n71. French toast sticks as a late night bite for fun and to soak up cocktails. ~ Paige, Austin, TX\n72. Crab rangoons (a family recipe of our venue owner and delicious.)\n73. Chicken and waffles for a Sunday brunch wedding.\n74. Mini fried chicken sliders on biscuits drizzled w/honey as late night bites.\n75. Live taco station at midnight.\n\n![Soft Pretzels](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2LioAFX0pcmSKAX9zVO80H/f0bd05b02dd987d9056a5bcab91a6299/Soft_Pretzels.jpg) Photo: [the Alloy King of Prussia](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-alloy-king-of-prussia-a-doubletree-by-hilton)\n\nDeciding on the perfect fare for your big day can be stressful. Make the process as easy as possible and discuss your ideas with your caterer to come up with a good list of options. Once you get your wedding invitation responses back, you’ll be able to give your caterer a final headcount and they’ll help you prepare an amazing menu for your big day.\n\nNeed more help from Zola? Peruse our extensive [expert advice section](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice) to answer all of your burning wedding planning questions. You can browse by topic, so from [getting engaged](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/getting-engaged) to having a lasting, [healthy relationship](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/relationship-advice), we're here! ","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_RealWeddings"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-11-08T17:19:39.214Z"}],"name":"Food & catering","slug":"food-catering","description":"Advice and tips to find the perfect food and drinks to serve at your wedding. Whether you're looking for advice on choosing a wedding caterer, crafting a seasonal offering, or budget friendly options, find the inspiration you need to create the perfect menu!"},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Florists & flowers","slug":"florists-flowers","description":"Your guide to wedding florists and flowers. Find inspiration for the perfect bouquet, flower adornments and everything in between. We help you plan and budget for the wedding blooms of your dreams."},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Bands, DJs & music","slug":"bands-djs-music","description":"Your guide to wedding bands, DJs and music. Find the perfects tunes for every moment of your wedding from entrance songs to the last-dance. Whether you hire a live band or have a family member DJ, we help you get everything in order to dance the night away!"},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Cakes & desserts","slug":"cakes-desserts"},"slug":"top-5-wedding-desserts","title":"Top 20 Wedding Desserts to Serve In Addition to Cake","excerpt":"Looking for a wedding dessert alternative to wedding cake? Couples weigh in on the top wedding desserts to serve in addition to (or instead of) cake.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2019-08-09T09:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/77JkhjpGivIujhevd17RUy/f6a14bad2961308423b22c7406a82751/HERO_Maggie_Tony_PhotobyGTBImagery.jpg","altText":"wedding dessert alternatives"},"heroCredit":"GTB Imagery","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/gtb-imagery","body":"Wedding cake is, hands down, the most common dessert option for weddings. It may be the most popular wedding dessert—but it’s certainly not the only wedding dessert. In fact, according to Zola’s 2018 Wedding Guest Report, a solid __50% of couples will serve other sweets in addition to cake on their wedding day__. So, options abound. Let’s take a look at the top five wedding desserts (besides cake) to deliver an out-of-the-box sugar rush to your wedding guests. \n\n__Table of Contents__\n\n- Doughnuts \n- Pie \n- Milk and Cookies \n- Cake Pops \n- Ice Cream Sundaes \n- More Wedding Dessert Ideas To Wow Your Guests \n\n### 1. Doughnuts \nDoughnuts (or donuts!) are quickly becoming a go-to sweet for weddings—and for good reason! First of all, doughnuts are much more affordable (and easy to find) than many other desserts. So, they’re a great choice for [couples on a budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-ways-cut-wedding-costs). Doughnuts also add a ton of variety to your dessert table. You can serve different flavors, different toppings, different icing colors, and different fillings. There can be a doughnut for every wedding style, color palette, and taste preference.\n\n__How to Serve:__ There are plenty of ways you can display these tasty treats. A [doughnut wall](https://www.zola.com/shop/product/gingerray_donut_wall) doubles as a fun piece of decor, a doughnut tower makes for an impressive display, or a DIY doughnut decoration station gets your guests involved in the fun. \n\n![INLINE D.J.&Graham PhotobytheSNAPsistersPhotography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4FBAkYfQDQ8m7UT2BiYXS/bf4bc0900c519b873e51c115fed3ae7a/INLINE_D.J._Graham_PhotobytheSNAPsistersPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // The SNAP Sisters Photography\n\n### 2. Pie \nComplement a slice of a cake with a slice of pie. Pies are a truly unexpected wedding dessert option, but they’re gaining popularity. Pie is the second most popular non-cake wedding dessert (after doughnuts). Details like lattice work and decorative edges and top crusts make for an impressive dessert. Plus, like doughnuts, pie can come in a lot of different flavors—there’s something for every season. Think strawberry rhubarb in the spring, pumpkin maple in the fall, blueberry in the summer, and good, old fashioned apple for a winter wedding.\n\nIf you’re having a more intimate wedding, you could even bake the pies yourself. This could help keep your dessert budget to a minimum.\n\n__How to Serve:__ Set up a pie station (complete with toppings like whipped cream, of course!) and let your guests serve themselves. Alternatively, slice up the pies into bite-sized squares, display them on your dessert table, and let guests grab a bite of each flavor throughout the night.\n\n### 3. Milk and Cookies \nIf you want your sweets table wedding addition to come equipped with a nostalgic punch, then you'll definitely want to consider going with milk and cookies for your wedding dessert. \n\nThis simple dessert staple is quickly becoming one of the most on-trend wedding desserts of the year. The biggest benefit of serving milk and cookies at your wedding is, hands down, the cost. Whether you buy cookies from a bakery or whip up a few batches yourself, cookies and a few gallons of milk aren’t going to put a dent in your budget. Plus, you can easily serve a variety of flavors for your wedding cookies (chocolate chip, oatmeal, and butterscotch brown sugar, for example)—which will keep your dessert table interesting. We also recommend offering a few varieties of milk, as well. Oat milk may up your budget, but only marginally.\n\n__How to Serve:__ If you want to get creative, get mugs for each of your guests, fill them with a few cookies, and display them on a table next to jugs of milk on ice. That takes care of your dessert table and your wedding favors!\n\n### 4. Cake Pops \nCakes, weddings—these things just go together. You don’t have to go with the three-tiered display in order to serve cake at your wedding. If you want to do something unexpected and a bit more casual than traditional wedding cake, try cake pops.\n\nCake pops have been having a serious moment for the last few years. They’re easy to make, easy to decorate, and easy for guests to eat. The truth is—and always will be—people love food on sticks (popsicles, corn dogs, etc.). Cake pops require no silverware, they are dance floor-friendly, and they’re also just cute.\n\n__How to Serve:__ Thanks to their stick-centric design, cake pops also offer a wide variety of display options. You can create cake pop bouquets, a cake pop garden, a cake pop wall, and more. \n\n### 5. Ice Cream Sundaes \nIf you want a wedding dessert that’s easy, affordable, and completely customizable (which is great if you have a picky eater or two in attendance), ice cream sundaes are the way to go.\n\n__How to Serve:__ With ice cream sundaes, all you have to do is supply a variety of ice cream and toppings—the rest is up to your guests. Create an ice cream sundae bar and have guests move through it like an assembly line. Start with bowls and spoons, follow up with ice cream on ice, and wrap things up with a wide variety of toppings for your guests to choose from. It’s choose your own adventure: the wedding dessert edition!\n\nThese top wedding desserts will serve as perfect alternatives or complements to any traditional [wedding cake ideas](https://zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-cake-ideas). There’s no right or wrong way to do wedding desserts—as long as you’ve got sweets on hand, your guests will be more than happy to eat them!\n\n## More Wedding Dessert Ideas To Wow Your Guests \nLooking for more wedding dessert ideas? Here are some additional ideas for wedding sweets to get your creative juices flowing:\n\n### 6. Cupcakes \nCupcakes are a great compromise if you want the taste of cake without the expense. Create a cupcake display with different types of cupcakes (for example, different flavors or toppings, like sprinkles and buttercream) and let your guests choose whichever cupcake looks best to them.\n\n### 7. Macarons \nThese bite-size desserts are an elegant bridal shower favorite—but they're also the perfect fit for a wedding dessert. These almond-based confection can be baked in just about any color under the sun—so talk to your wedding baker and an array that match your wedding colors.\n\n### 8. Croquembouche \nIf you're looking for an impressive wedding dessert, consider a croquembouche. A croquembouche is a tower constructed of cream puffs, dipped in chocolate, and held together by caramel.\n\n### 9. S'mores bar \nEveryone loves s'mores—so why not create a s'mores bar for your wedding dessert? Offer guests the basic s'mores ingredients (marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers) as well as a variety of fun toppings and sauces—then end the table with a tabletop firepit so they can roast away!\n\n### 10. Cheesecake \nCheesecake is a decadent, rich dessert that's completely customizable; you can incorporate a variety of flavors into the crust, filling, and toppings—making it a great wedding dessert.\n\n### 11. Waffle bar \nBreakfast food also makes for a great dessert—and a waffle bar, complete with different types of waffles, fillings, and toppings, makes for a fun, unique wedding dessert.\n\n### 12. Fruit tarts \nIf you like the idea of pie as a wedding dessert, but want to have a bit more elegance, consider fruit tarts. Fruit tarts are not only delicious, but you can either make them large (and offer guests individual slices) or individually sized—which gives you versatility in how you serve your wedding dessert.\n\n### 13. Candy bar \nIf you want to keep things simple (and affordable!) for your wedding dessert, consider a candy bar.\n\n### 14. Brownies \nIf you want a wedding dessert that's easy, affordable, and delicious, bake a few trays of brownies for your guests. (Don't like chocolate? No worries! A tray of blondies will work just as well.)\n\n### 15 Cinnamon rolls \nCinnamon rolls are another breakfast-for-dessert item that your guests are sure to love. These sweet treats are gooey and decadent—plus, they stay relatively fresh long after they come out of the oven, making them an ideal dessert if there's a solid amount of time between when your wedding dessert is delivered and when your guests will actually be eating said dessert.\n\n### 16. Ice pops \nIf you're hosting a summer wedding, you want to make sure your guests stay cool—and ice pops can be a great way to help them cool off! (Just make sure you have a way to keep the ice pops from melting; for example, you might rent a freezer cart—and let guests open the cart and grab ice pops throughout the evening).\n\n### 17. Churros \nIf you're looking for your wedding dessert to please a crowd, you'd be hard-pressed to find a guest that wouldn't love these Mexican cinnamon and sugar-covered fried treats. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces (like chocolate and caramel) to up the delicious factor!\n\n### 18. Gelato \nIf you want to infuse the spirit of Italy into your wedding dessert, consider gelato—which is similar to ice cream, but has a richer flavor.\n\n![INLINE PhotobyKristenHoneycuttPhotoCo. option2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/B1cPRpneEu5Q0AKrizYSy/6423d0a4c87ef59960c212319ef9bbbb/INLINE_PhotobyKristenHoneycuttPhotoCo._option2.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Kristen Honeycutt Photo Co.\n\n### 19. Sorbet \nIf you want to offer guests a healthier alternative to ice cream, consider sorbet. It's light, it's refreshing, and it makes for a delicious (and healthy!) wedding dessert.\n\n### 20. Parfaits \nAnother light and healthy wedding dessert option? Parfaits. Layer yogurt, fruit, and granola in clear, decorative glasses. Not only does it taste great, but it makes for a visually impactful dessert option!\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Need wedding cake ideas but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered with this list of 112 wedding cake ideas, organized by wedding season. ","title":"112 Wedding Cake Ideas & Designs","slug":"wedding-cake-ideas","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5V0DFlLCeXlId6h1UScbIm/b57fdd7bbf656730765e7a6c1d8ff03f/112-Wedding-Cake-Ideas-and-Designs.jpg","altText":"wedding-cake-ideas-by-season"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Your wedding centerpieces don't have to feature dramatic florals in order to be beautiful. Save money and get creative with these 29 unique centerpiece ideas for your wedding reception. ","title":"29 Unique Wedding Centerpiece Ideas You'll Say \"Yes\" To","slug":"wedding-centerpiece-ideas","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1aWsBliSOvNekdFYz2buxx/d846fe5dd67279c4fdf5c793c8c1fda0/Hero_New_Zola.jpg","altText":"Unique Wedding Centerpiece Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Need to cut wedding costs? Here are five ways to do so that you might not have thought about. Read up, and get ready to spend smart!","title":"29 Ways to Cut Wedding Costs","slug":"5-ways-cut-wedding-costs","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XUtTaJVTcHtvYZbB5mOWW/9543c7efa84e5c6a4d1d3b58ea0da85a/amy-peppercorn-photography.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom sitting side by side outdoors in wedding attire as the sun sets"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors like size, shape, & decor. Read our guide to gain insights on the average cost of a wedding cake this year.","title":"How Much Does the Average Wedding Cake Cost in 2025?","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ywuArPikb1BsvjvYzDQhn/24f27696b854c3c5a22eed69292c6c4b/Guide-to-Wedding-Cake-Costs-and-Price.jpg","altText":"Graphic of pink wedding cake with heart cake topper and price tag"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Confused on how much to tip wedding vendors, which vendors to tip, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: explore our guide for tipping wedding vendors.","title":"How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors","slug":"a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oljNU6JIHuglslJ7ouSRO/c09c8646dad52d410abed69adbc51a28/lovesome-photography.webp","altText":"how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover everything there is to know about wedding menu cards in our guide. ","title":"A Guide to Wedding Menu Cards","slug":"a-guide-to-wedding-menu-cards","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/61hYhBsuFxG4P1dyCiV5XB/563a14f4629b73a3a383c1d0329291d0/hero_A_Guide_to_Wedding_Menu_Cards.jpg","altText":"wedding reception place setting with cream colored plates, sage green accents, and a wedding menu card"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The most popular flavors for wedding cakes have been classics for decades. Discover popular cake flavors and trendsetting cakes that are on the rise with Zola.\n","title":"How to Choose the Best Flavor for Your Wedding Cake","slug":"what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6IsAQ3XQDnlAoaKWVhJEaW/7969924731f93a0d950dc781824ab68a/What-Are-the-Most-Popular-Flavors-For-a-Wedding-Cake.jpg","altText":"Cake slices on table"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Food is a wedding highlight for most guests. So, you want it to be good. Quickly narrow down your options (and eat some really good food) with our guide to finding the perfect wedding caterer.","title":"How to Choose a Wedding Caterer + 4 Tips","slug":"how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5M4mYAIlu1kgy1lDIv0us0/ae15b2a4ee8e1c6db153a90f47f34b9e/Hero_New_BeautifulUrbanWeddinginDowntownSeattle_MicheleM.Waite.jpg","altText":"wedding caterer"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:56:25.443Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Cakes & desserts","slug":"cakes-desserts"},"slug":"what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake","title":"How to Choose the Best Flavor for Your Wedding Cake","excerpt":"The most popular flavors for wedding cakes have been classics for decades. Discover popular cake flavors and trendsetting cakes that are on the rise with Zola.\n","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-08T04:49:28.189Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6IsAQ3XQDnlAoaKWVhJEaW/7969924731f93a0d950dc781824ab68a/What-Are-the-Most-Popular-Flavors-For-a-Wedding-Cake.jpg","altText":"Cake slices on table"},"heroCredit":"Zola","body":"According to fictional bakery owner, Fran Weston from Gilmore Girls, cake isn’t just a delicious dessert you get to eat after you’re married, \"Cake is the glue of the wedding.\"\n\nShe’s not wrong about the importance of a [wedding cake](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/decor-inspiration/cakes)! Choosing your wedding cake flavor (along with your [wedding cake budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-cake-costs)!) is an important decision in the wedding planning process (that’s what cake tasting is for!). But with so many flavor combinations to choose from—not to mention ganache (should I go with chocolate or white chocolate ganache?), icings (Italian meringue or Swiss buttercream?), fillings (something fruity, like berries and cream, or more tart and tangy, like lemon curd?), and cake design and decorations (should I keep the design simple or go more elaborate?)—you might be overwhelmed with the confectionary possibilities for your big day. \n\nIf you’re looking for __[wedding cake ideas](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-cake-ideas)__ to help you choose, this guide will show you the most popular cakes of the last 60 years, the up-and-coming flavor favorites, and daring delectables of wedding cake flavors. You’ll also learn a bit about other taste profiles that will suit each cake flavor to spark cake creativity. By the time you’re done with this guide, you’ll be ready to dig into a piece of wedding cake (and [give a serious tip to your wedding baker](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/do-you-tip-wedding-bakers)!). \n\nWhat are you waiting for? Dig in!\n\n## Most Popular Wedding Cake Flavors\nBelow, explore the most popular wedding cake flavors, or jump straight to the section you’re most interested in:\n- [The Fantastic Four](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake#fantastic-four): Vanilla, Chocolate, Yellow Cake, Red Velvet\n\n- [The Up-and-Comers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake#up-and-comers): Funfetti, Lemon, Spice Cakes, Almond, Pink Champagne\n\n- [The Mavericks](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake#mavericks): Cognac, Coffee and Cream, Peanut Butter Cup, Coconut\n\n![What Are the Most Popular Flavors For a Wedding Cake?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5DKh543j5w7XpkScOzMRIw/a357ec150716eb1be179055fb346f8f4/Inline_ClassicWeddingatStoneHouseatStirlingRidge_NSTPictures.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // NST Pictures\n\n## The Fantastic Four: The 4 Most Popular Flavors Over the Last 60 Years\n\nSince the 1960s, the [most popular cake flavors for weddings](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-most-popular-flavors-for-a-wedding-cake&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1660344169666349&usg=AOvVaw1gtrz5ejwE6vux9-q7aPaf) haven’t strayed far from four classics: vanilla, chocolate, yellow cake, and red velvet. These cakes have been tantalizing the taste buds of wedding guests and couples for decades and are sure to be a hit for years to come. \n\n### 1. Vanilla\n\nYou can’t go wrong with a vanilla cake on your wedding dat. It’s a crowd-pleaser, it’s light, it’s delicious, and it goes with the decor—wedding white. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings__: Vanilla is as adaptable as it is popular. You can choose a classic filling and frosting, such as vanilla buttercream, or introduce a more playful flavor profile. Check out the examples below: \n\n- More vanilla\n- Chocolate mousse\n- Coconut\n- Strawberry\n- Passion fruit\n- Lemon curd\n- Fruit or berries\n- Amaretto\n\n### 2. Chocolate\n\nChocoholics rejoice—this delicious flavor is a wedding favorite. It’s commonly layered with a tiered vanilla cake and filled with vanilla buttercream. This classic flavor offers plenty of room for creative fillings, icings, and accents. \n\n__*Suggested Flavor Pairings:*__ Chocolate cake can be a decadent dessert or a delicate delight. Find a flavor profile that works for you below: \n\n- Salted Caramel\n- Toffee\n- Espresso\n- Raspberry\n- Vanilla\n- Marshmallow\n- Dark Chocolate\n- Cookie Dough\n- German Chocolate\n- Black Forest\n- White Chocolate\n\n### 3. Yellow Cake\n\nThis slice of buttery deliciousness rose into the nation’s most popular wedding cake flavors in the 1970s. But you might be wondering what exactly makes yellow cake... yellow. The ingredients are almost identical to those of a white or vanilla cake with one key exception—the use of whole eggs, including yolks. White and vanilla cakes use just the whites of eggs to maintain their pale color. But the introduction of whole egg yolks brings color and richness to a yellow cake.\n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ The golden confection plays particularly well with chocolate buttercream, but you can get creative with fillings and icings:\n\n- Vanilla buttercream\n- Caramel buttercream\n- Cream cheese\n\n### 4. Red Velvet\n\nRed velvet cakes are famous for their rich taste, moist texture, and that stunning red shade. This cake sets itself apart from others in its surprising list of ingredients—cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vinegar. These ingredients help soften the proteins of the mixture and create an indulgent treat perfect for weddings.\n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ A red velvet cake is already very rich, so most bakers recommend leaning into the classic cream cheese frosting. But there’s a little wiggle room to explore different avenues of taste pairings: \n\n- Vanilla\n- Cream cheese\n- Berries\n- Fresh strawberries\n- Raspberry jam\n- Chocolate chips\n\n## The Up-and-Comers\n\nIf you want something a little more unexpected, take a look at these up-and-coming flavors for a sensational (and scrumptious) wedding cake. \n\n### 5. Funfetti\n\nFinally, we can all admit that adults enjoy funfetti as much (if not more) than children. This cake takes a colorful spin on the classic white or vanilla cake to bring a taste of whimsy to your wedding guests. And no, you don’t have to use the boxed kind. Bakers from all over the country offer funfetti flavors using a variety of sprinkles to ensure a festive flavor for your wedding cake. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ Keep your funfetti flavor pairings light and a little playful:\n\n- Berry\n- Vanilla bean\n- Cream cheese\n- Strawberry jam\n- Sprinkles\n\n### 6. Lemon\n\nSweet, zesty, and a little tart, lemon cakes are ideal for warm-weather weddings. They can also bring a bit of sunshine to a winter reception. If you’re not a big fan of lemon buttercream, lemon cake and mousse filling is a match made in dessert heaven. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ For lemon cake flavor pairings, think light, sweet, and airy:\n\n- Berries\n- Cream cheese\n- Amaretto\n- Raspberry\n- Vanilla\n\n### 7. Spice Cakes\n\nA spice cake isn’t necessarily spicy, it just means that certain spices are prominent in every bite. Spice cakes offer subtle nuances of flavor, a bit of warmth, and a comforting aesthetic to any wedding. You can select a classic flavor, such as carrot cake, or lean into winter with flavors such as cinnamon, ginger, clove, and cardamom. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ The flavor of these cakes comes from the use of warm, homey spices that might make you think of winter. Different fillings can heighten the allusions to chilly weather, or you can offset the spice with year-round flavors:\n\n- Molasses\n- Maple syrup\n- Honey\n- Toffee\n- Cream cheese\n- Vanilla\n- Amaretto\n- Whiskey\n- Hazelnut\n- Jam\n\n### 8. Almond\n\nAlmond cake is an up-and-coming wedding cake flavor that continues to grow in popularity, due to its nutty flavor and versatility in taste pairings. These cakes are distinguished from the usual wedding cake due to their slightly denser texture and moistness. Almond cakes are also common flavors for gluten-free cake alternatives. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ When it comes to fillings and icing, almond cakes are almost as versatile as vanilla or white cakes. Mix and match these complementary tastes to find a flavor that sings to your taste buds: \n\n- Caramel\n- Lemon \n- Whipped cream\n- Pear\n- Toffee\n- Apple\n- Blueberry\n- Cinnamon\n\n### 9. Pink Champagne\n\nDouble the celebration sensations with a pink Champagne cake. This dessert is made by infusing vanilla cake with Champagne. It pairs perfectly with the bubbly wedding beverages and florals.\n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ Pink Champagne cakes are light, moist, and have a hint of that delicious Champagne flavor. Complement those indulgent tastes with sweet fillings and icings:\n\n- Raspberry\n- Lemon\n- White chocolate\n- Vanilla\n\n## The Mavericks \n\nIf you’re looking for a flavor that stands out from the crowd and deserves a standing ovation for deliciousness, take a look at these maverick flavors for a memorable and scrumptious wedding cake.\n\n### 10. Cognac\n\nTransport yourself and your guests to a French hunting lodge with a cognac cake. This rich, warm wedding cake gets its flavor from using cognac instead of water in the batter. A cognac cake is sometimes complemented with holiday herbs. If you’re looking for a luxurious flavor for a winter wedding, look no further. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ The cognac flavor of this delicious cake opens doors for a variety of warming flavors:\n\n- Caramel\n- Hazelnut\n- Cinnamon\n- Ginger\n- Maple syrup\n- Vanilla\n\n### 11. Coffee and Cream\n\nCoffee goes so well with sweets, so why not marry the two tastes in your wedding cake? If you’re a coffee-lover, a coffee and cream cake will express your personality in every slice. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ The rule for a coffee and cream cake is simple: whatever flavor would pair well with coffee will probably taste wonderful in a coffee and cream cake. Get inspiration from your local coffee shop’s menu for a sumptuous mix of bitter, sweet, and creamy: \n\n- Whipped cream\n- Toffee\n- Hazelnut\n- Chocolate\n- Kahlua\n- Caramel\n\n### 12. Peanut Butter Cup\n\nWere there ever two substances more made for each other than peanut butter and chocolate? This salty-sweet confection invokes nostalgia, indulgence, and multiple trips back to the cake serving station.\n\n__*Suggested Flavor Pairings:*__ A peanut butter cup cake is perfectly paired already, but there are ways to heighten the taste experience using other candy bar flavors and textures:\n\n- Pretzels\n- Chocolate chips\n- Salted caramel\n\n### 13. Coconut\n\nPerfect for summer weddings, coconut cake can be delicate and delicious, or dense and decadent. Coconut cakes are also a wonderful flavor option if you want to stick to the white cake wedding tradition. \n\n__Suggested Flavor Pairings:__ Coconut cakes are rich and tasty, but they also open your wedding cake flavor options to tropical notes: \n\n- Pineapple\n- Kiwi\n- Mango\n\n![What Are the Most Popular Flavors For a Wedding Cake?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1EODiIBGbV1COyIUIjhlgj/fe7aad4fea71d79a3de7a7994b9d4dd3/Inline_ClassicCityWeddingatTheFoundry_CrockerPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Crocker Photography\n\n## The Secret Ingredient to a Wonderful Wedding? Zola\nYour wedding day should be sweet. But who says wedding planning can’t be sweet, too? __[Zola’s](https://www.zola.com/)__ team of wedding experts have everything you need to plan a fantastic day, including planning resources, a custom __[wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)__ builder, __[save-the-date](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop)__ and __[wedding invitation](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)__ services, and an easy-to-use [online registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry).","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:56:26.342Z"}],"name":"Cakes & desserts","slug":"cakes-desserts","description":"Your guide to wedding cake, desserts, and all things sweet. Find advice on choosing the perfect wedding cake, unique wedding dessert table ideas and more tasty inspiration."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding","title":"The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List","excerpt":"Inject some life into your wedding reception with this list of must have spirits and other social lubricants. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-12T19:21:03.075Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3X1H5ViZvtTc4E3ZNOxUnW/07c180df1bd13ebdd4757c2ccbfb8a78/kelsey-knight-udj2tD3WKsY-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Hand holding wine glass"},"heroCredit":"Kelsey Knight","body":"At Zola, we believe that your wedding day is a sacred event intended to celebrate the commitment between you and your partner. While other wedding sites may be in the business of referring to your wedding reception as \"one big party,\" Zola understands that your wedding is as relevant as it is celebratory. \n\nThat being said, celebrating is an integral part of what will undoubtedly be one of the most important days of your life. We don't like to overemphasize the \"party\" aspect of your wedding celebration. Still, we’d be lying if we said that your reception isn't going to be one of the most fabulous celebrations you ever attend.\n\nWhen it comes to celebrating your wedding, having a substantial selection of adult beverages is key. So, enough beating around the bush—here is the ultimate alcohol list for your wedding.\n\nJust for fun, here is our ultimate wedding alcohol list power rankings:\n\n1. __Champagne.__ You can't have a wedding without it.\n2. __Red Wine.__ You can have it during cocktail hour, it will be served with dinner, and it pairs well with chocolatey desserts. Plus, there aren't many people who flat out refuse to drink it. \n3. __Vodka.__ It's easy to drink on its own, and it mixes well with almost everything. If you're going to choose only one spirit, Vodka is it.\n4. __Beer.__ Whether it's domestic or craft, beer is always a great option for a party.\n5. __Bourbon.__ There's the casual whiskey drinker, and then there's the bourbon drinker. Every party has a few of them. Bourbon can be substituted for whiskey, but not the other way around. When in doubt, bourbon over whiskey.\n6. __White Wine.__ More of a cocktail hour beverage than an all-night drink, white wine is a staple for those who prefer something light on the palette.\n7. __Gin.__ It's vodka's partner in crime. This distilled spirit is very en vogue at the moment and opens up a world of cocktail options, such as martinis, gimlets, and, of course, the classic gin and tonic.\n8. __Whiskey.__ Much like vodka, whiskey pairs well with a lot of other beverages. Whiskey is a top requested spirit at any event with a bar, but with only a small range of flexibility for cocktails, it's lower on our list.\n9. __Rum.__ A great liquor for mixed drinks, and a solid depth option to round out any bar.\n10. __Liqueurs.__ This generalized group includes spirits such as triple sec and Bailey's, and are absolutely necessary for creating [wedding signature cocktails](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail).\n\n## Liquor\nDistilled spirits are a foundational building block for any wedding alcohol list. As Willy Wonka once said, “Candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.” If you’re planning on serving alcohol at your event, we strongly recommend that you include some version of liquor.\n\nFor many couples, there are questions and concerns surrounding [wedding caterers and bartenders](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bar-services) serving liquor, and understandably so. __The biggest question regarding liquor at your wedding is not whether or not it should be served, but rather what kinds of liquor should be provided, especially at a limited bar.__\n\nAs a method of making your decisions easier, Zola recommends using a tiered system for choosing the liquor you will serve at your wedding. Our tiered system involves choosing two liquors at a time. The idea behind choosing two at a time is all about encouraging you to make selections that will offset one another. Using this selection method will provide your guests with the greatest possible variety for standalone spirits and mixed drinks. \n\n![mikey-harris-aRiyGZqKjj0-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5vyayVfaegxXA3Gfn812uH/5fb88b77cce7be21b3e270a94701c1b9/mikey-harris-aRiyGZqKjj0-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Mikey Harris\n\n### Separate your liquors into clear and colored options. \n\nWhile it may seem simplistic, separating your hard liquor into clear and colored means that you will secure a broader range of alcohol for your guests. For the most part, clear liquors, such as __vodka, gin, and tequila,__ are a completely different flavor profile than dark liquors, such as whiskey, bourbon, and rum. \n\n1. __Vodka and bourbon__. These are the two most common liquor choices for any wedding. On the one hand, you have a clear liquor with vodka, and alternately you have a colored liquor in bourbon. Both are easily drinkable on their own, and both are used in signature cocktail beverages, such as the vodka martini and the Old Fashioned. \n\nThe reason for choosing bourbon over a different kind of whiskey is somewhat subjective, but there is logic behind the choice. All bourbons are whiskeys, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Usually, bourbon is easier to drink on its own, and, far more often, a whiskey drinker will ask for a bourbon over an alternate variety of whiskey. Choose whatever you and your guests will prefer, but bourbon is the safe play here. \n\n2. __Gin and rum__. Gin is a popular choice for fancy cocktails, and rum is great for fun mixed-drink varieties. While rum can be light or dark, we recommend choosing a lighter rum that still has some color to it, such as Mount Gay. Because vodka and bourbon are more mainstream, it’s wise to include gin and rum as your tier two options to increase the versatility of your cocktail bar.\n\n3. __Irish whisky and tequila__, to __vermouth and cognac__. Unless you and your guests are avid tequila drinkers, best to skip it for your wedding. Shots are never encouraged at a wedding, and tequila practically demands to be taken as a shot. Steer clear of this polarizing beverage as it tends to bring out the wild side of any party.\n\n![deleece-cook-znXmpb53QJU-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/csI3Nx7FRgaJzDB4RHXEW/ef068f755b816d3f6f86ae0c088578a3/deleece-cook-znXmpb53QJU-unsplash.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Deleece Cook\n\n## Champagne\nWhen it comes to your ultimate wedding alcohol list, Champagne should be at the top of it. While liquor is a foundational staple for any wedding, a wedding just simply isn't a wedding without some bubbles and a Champagne toast. For those who are Champagne purists, we should clarify that we are talking about sparkling wine, not necessarily Champagne. \n\nThe difference, for those who are wondering, is sort of like bourbon and whiskey. __All Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne.__ Champagne is a region in France where the beverage Champagne was invented, and, as such, only sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region is called Champagne.\n\n### When Should You Serve Champagne?\n\nSpecificity aside, you’ll want Champagne (read: sparkling wine) throughout the day. Perhaps you’ll want to indulge in a mimosa while getting ready, so you'll need to have prosecco on hand. Maybe you'll want a glass of something in the limo on the way to the reception, so be sure to have a nice brut chilling in the ice chest. And, of course, you'll want to have a bottle bedside for when you and your sweetheart arrive home after the wedding reception. \n\nThe point is, sparkling wine and the aforementioned Champagne are a major part of your wedding day. If we have one piece of advice regarding your Champagne selection, it's this—spend up and overbuy. There is no worse hangover than the one you get from cheap Champagne. And, even if you save the good stuff for yourself, you should always have a few more bottles than you think you'll need.\n\n![yutacar-JKMnm3CIncw-unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3B46SLGc34Eg6afQQ9f59T/748ecb17e38b7e89bd1d03c4569a466f/yutacar-JKMnm3CIncw-unsplash.jpg) *Photo Credits //* Yutacar\n\n## Beer and Wine \nBeer and wine are such essential choices for wedding beverages that some couples choose to serve them exclusively. Beer and wine do what other wedding alcohols cannot in their ability to stand on their own as sufficient. While serving only beer and wine may not be your guests' preferred choice, no one will be outraged if you choose to go with beer and wine only.\n\n## An Open Bar's Best Friends\n\nBeer and wine are also terrific complementary pieces to your wedding bar as a whole. Often, whoever is providing your bar service will offer two different beer selections and two different wine selections. More often than not, the choices of beer will include one __domestic and one imported.__ Similarly, the wine will be offered in the form of __red wine, usually a cabernet, and white wine, usually chardonnay.__\n\nThe best part about beer and wine is simplicity. You don't have to overthink it, just pick something that most people like and you'll be fine. When in doubt, pick something you like to drink, and if you're really stuck, ask a couple of guests. \n\n- The most common beer choices for a wedding include Bud Light—as the domestic choice—and Corona or Heineken as the imported choice. \n- Chardonnay and cabernet are the most popular wine choices, but a zinfandel and sauvignon blanc are good alternatives, respectively. \n\n## Mixers, Citrus, and Ice\nEvery ultimate wedding alcohol list should include mixers. While they may not be alcohol themselves, there are very few guests who will want their drinks neat. Be sure to procure a variety of soft drinks, juices, and, of course, fresh-cut citrus to include with the alcohol you’re serving.\n\nYou can never have too much ice. People like their drinks to be cold, and many people enjoy their cocktails on the rocks. Every good bartender will tell you how important ice is to a well-stocked bar. Do your guests, and your bartenders, a favor by getting plenty of ice for the booze.\n\n## Specialty Cocktails\nSome call them craft cocktails, others call them specialty spirits, but whatever you call these artisanal alcoholic treats, your guests will simply call them delicious. \n\n### Bartenders vs. Mixologists: Which Should You Choose?\n\nUsually, an average bartender will not be able to create signature cocktails on the spot, so you may need to hire someone with a special skill set who can help curate a unique [wedding cocktail menu](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-drinks-are-served-at-cocktail-hour \"What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?\") for the event. We're not saying that there aren't regular bartenders who don't make a superior drink, but we're just saying that for truly artisanal cocktails you’ll need to hire a bonafide mixologist for this type of alcoholic beverage.\n\nIf you’re considering a real mixologist for your wedding, we recommend hiring them only for cocktail hour. Having someone to make fancy cocktails is a great way to entertain your guests as they mingle during the [time between ceremony and reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-time-should-you-have-between-a-wedding-ceremony-and-reception). However, there is a high probability that the cool aesthetic of craft cocktails will wear off later in the evening. As people begin to drink more, they care less about a hibiscus-infused vodka gimlet and tend to lean more on the standard party beverages, such as beer or a glass of wine. \n\n![The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Wkajj9KjnL5ltyPxzajMD/16168ef8c715b1543d133e8f53579c2b/INLINE_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg)*Photo Credit //* Unsplash\n\n## Should You Have Alcohol at Your Wedding?\n\nIf you have trepidations about serving liquor at your wedding, we’re here to tell you not to worry. While distilled spirits and other alcohols can certainly cause drunkenness, rest assured that your guests will be on their best behavior. It’s a well understood social construct that behavior at a wedding is jovial, yet controlled. Your guests certainly understand that this is a special occasion and they are expected to have fun responsibly. \n\n- If you’re concerned about overserving your guests, we recommend setting a drink limit for hard liquor. Alternately, a cash bar is always a great way to encourage responsibility as it tempers how many trips to the bar your guests are willing to take. \n- If you’re concerned about serving too much alcohol at your wedding, address your guest list to see whether or not alcohol will be an issue. Alcohol, when consumed responsibly, is a wonderful part of being an adult and an incredible part of your wedding day. \n\nWe hope this list of wedding day alcohol choices will help your planning process, so that come the big day you can sit back and raise a glass to your new spouse and a life of joy together. Cheers!\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:59.297Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"18-popular-wedding-cocktails","title":"18 Popular Wedding Cocktails","excerpt":"We’ve narrowed down a list of some of the best wedding cocktails to consider for your big day (as well as some fun, flavor options to make them your own).","author":"Maggy Lehmicke","publishedAt":"2021-11-01T14:42:35.660Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/40IXIJglymNErnNdU5DR91/f5be6ccec01a9d5c224d45f212f3c7ae/Hero_Unsplash_AdamJaime.jpg","altText":"8 Popular Wedding Cocktails"},"heroCredit":"Unsplash","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- While there are hundreds of cocktails (and combinations) worth considering for your wedding-day festivities, there are 18 that seem to consistently win guests over.\n- Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or more spirit-forward, it’s important to remember that nearly every cocktail can be customized to fit your vision.\n- Most importantly, make sure your cocktail selections reflect not only your event, but you as a couple.","body":"Whether you’re hoping for something strong and spirit-forward or a light and fruity spritzer, there are plenty of wedding cocktails to choose from on your big day. Below are some of our favorite choices for wedding cocktails (as well as a few tips and tricks to make them your own).\n\n## 18 Popular Wedding Cocktail Recipes \n\n### #1 __Moscow Mule__\nThis classic cocktail recipe mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime is not only a popular pick, but also lends itself to a lot of versatility. For something more customized, consider adding berries, hibiscus, or even some St. Germain. Those who prefer darker spirits can opt for a Kentucky Mule or Dark ‘n Stormy instead. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz vodka\n- 4 oz ginger beer\n- ½ oz lime juice\n- Lime wedge for garnish (optional) \n\n### #2 __Manhattan__\nThis signature cocktail recipe is great for guests who prefer a more spirit-forward libation. While typically made with rye or another American whiskey (such as bourbon), feel free to get creative with your whiskey of choice. Irish whiskies, Scotch, and other blended options make some great alternatives. You can even add a dash of orange bitters to really bring out the citrus notes.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz bourbon or rye\n- 1 oz sweet vermouth\n- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters\n- Orange peel\n- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional) \n\n### #3 __Margarita__\nThe ultimate crowd pleasers, margaritas are a clear favorite at weddings (particularly amongst tequila lovers). While a classic margarita is made with lime, you can make one from almost any fruit. Try playing around with infusions (such as pineapple juice and jalapeno) or create a fun salt station where your guests can make something that suits their personal tastes.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz tequila\n- ¾ oz lime juice\n- 1 oz orange liqueur (typically Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or Triple Sec)\n- Salt for the rim\n\n### #4 __French 75__\nThe perfect fit for a classy affair, this Prohibition-era sipper will appeal to even the most cocktail-averse guests. While typically served with gin, some cocktail connoisseurs prefer swapping the base spirit with Cognac. Served in a Champagne flute, this drink is a great alternative to the classic Champagne toast. Feel free to add a lemon twist for some extra flair.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 oz gin\n- ½ oz lemon juice\n- ½ oz simple syrup\n- 2 oz Champagne\n\n### #5 __Mimosa__\nThe simplest of all brunch cocktails, the mimosa is a great option for morning weddings or early festivities. Because of its simplicity, there are a lot of creative ways you can make the mimosa your own, including swapping the orange juice with a grapefruit or guava alternative. You can also consider a Bellini with peach nectar and prosecco if that’s more your vibe.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2-3 oz Champagne\n- 2-3 oz orange juice\n\n### #6 __Bees Knees__\nAnother light and citrusy selection, this cocktail is well-loved by many and makes a refreshingly sweet addition to any reception. Consider it as a cooler alternative to a hot toddy or a fun substitute for a Tom Collins. For creative folks, lavender simple syrup, blood orange, and elderflower liqueur all make great add-ins. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz gin\n- 1 oz lemon\n- ½ oz honey syrup\n- Lemon twist for garnish (optional) \n\n### #7 __Old Fashioned__\nFor those who appreciate a good spirit-forward cocktail, the classic Old Fashioned is a great one to lean on. While traditionally made with bourbon, you can always swap spirits with brandy, Scotch, or rye. Add a bit of orange zest, a cocktail cherry, or even dried rosemary to keep it fresh and seasonal.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz bourbon\n- 1 sugar cube\n- 2 dashes Angostura bitters\n- Orange peel and/or a cherry for garnish (optional) \n\n### #8 __Mojito__\nFor an outdoor, summer affair, there are few drinks as refreshing as a minty mojito. Feel free to play around with different types of rum and add berry infusions (such as fresh strawberries or blackberries) to satisfy the fruit-forward crowd. For those who prefer whiskey over rum, the Mint Julep is a great alternative with a similar flavor profile.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz rum\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- 2 teaspoons sugar or simple syrup\n- 5-8 mint leaves (muddled)\n- 4 oz club soda\n\n### #9 __Paloma__\nSimilar to the margarita (though slightly less common), the Paloma is a fun, fruit-forward drink that works for a variety of occasions. The simplicity of the drink makes it easy to add some fun twists, whether it be some agave nectar or a flavored salt rim. Fresh grapefruit juice adds a bit of zest, while the soda route is best if you’re craving something bubbly.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz tequila\n- 2 oz grapefruit juice or soda\n- ½ oz lime juice","body2":"### #10 __Gin & Tonic__\nFew cocktails are as classic and accessible as the G&T. While the traditional G&T is made of one part gin and three parts tonic, the perfect gin-to-tonic ratio is completely dependent on the individual. The simplicity of the G&T lends itself to a wide variety of options for customization, such as adding fruit or botanicals that really bring out the flavors of the gin. Using flavored gin or tonic water is another simple way to mix it up. \n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1-3 oz gin\n- 3-4 oz tonic water\n- Lime wedge for garnish (optional) \n\n### #11 __Whiskey Sour__\nExactly how it sounds, the whiskey sour is the perfect fit for those craving something on the tart side. With a fine balance of whiskey and lemon, the cocktail is fairly spirit-forward (and best prepared by a bartender who knows how to work with egg whites). Consider this a citrusy alternative to an old-fashioned or mint julep.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz bourbon\n- 1 oz lemon juice\n- ¾ oz simple syrup\n- 1 egg white\n\n### #12 __Martini__\nFew cocktails are as iconic as James Bond’s signature drink, making it the perfect pick for a black-tie affair. While the classic martini was made with gin, many bartenders have adopted a modern twist by opting for vodka instead. Consider playing around with flavored vodka or fun garnishes, such as edible flowers and other botanicals.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 3 oz gin or vodka\n- ½ oz dry vermouth\n- An olive for garnish\n\n### #13 __Aperol Spritz__\nMuch like the French 75, the Aperol spritz is a great option for those who favor sparkling wine over a more spirit-forward cocktail. The zesty, orange flavor is great for summer celebrations, while the bright hue adds a fun visual element. If you’re getting married in the off-season, it’s worth considering alternatives such as a cognac, apple cider spritz, or rhubarb spritzer.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz Aperol\n- 2 oz prosecco\n- 1 oz club soda\n\n### #14 __Gimlet__\nThe sweet and citrusy cousin to the martini, a classic gimlet adds a touch of class while still being endlessly refreshing. While traditionally served with gin, there are no spirits restrictions when it comes to the gimlet. In addition to swapping gin with flavored vodka, basil, elderflower, and rosemary all make great inclusions.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 2 oz gin\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- ½ -1 oz simple syrup (to taste)\n\n### #15 __Negroni__\nIf you find yourself loving Manhattans or the bittersweet, spiced notes of Campari, then the negroni may be for you. The botanical flavors of both the gin and vermouth are complemented by the mix of cherry, clove, and cinnamon that are often found in the Italian aperitif. While an acquired taste, the negroni is a great addition to any bar (particularly when paired with other, lighter options).\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 oz gin\n- 1 oz Campari\n- 1 oz sweet vermouth\n- Orange peel for garnish\n\n### #16 __Daiquiri__\nIf you’re someone who loves rum, but may be overwhelmed by the mint flavors of a mojito, then a daiquiri may be just the thing for you. More of a family cocktail than a singular drink, the daiquiri pairs well with a wide variety of summer-inspired flavors, including strawberry, peach, lemongrass, coconut, and more.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz white rum\n- 1 oz lime juice\n- ½ oz simple syrup\n\n### #17 __Irish Coffee__\nAs the weather cools, offering Irish coffee is a great way to warm your guests throughout the reception. Try adding a whipped cream station, or let guests pick their spirit of choice. Hot toddies and hot buttered rum are a couple of other warm drinks that make great alternatives, particularly if coffee is not your cup of tea (no pun intended).\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey\n- 1 oz cream\n- 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup\n- 3-4 oz hot coffee\n\n### #18 __Bloody Mary__\nWhile traditionally a brunch libation, the bloody Mary complements a wide range of celebration styles, making it a fun alternative to the classic wedding cocktail. This is the perfect pick for couples who want an engaging cocktail station, allowing guests to select from an abundance of additions, ranging from bacon to cilantro and other herbs.\n\nIngredients:\n\n- 1 ½ oz vodka\n- 3-4 oz tomato juice or tomato-vegetable cocktail mix\n- 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce\n- 1 tsp salt\n- ½ oz lemon juice (optional) \n- 1 dash of hot sauce (optional) \n- 1 stalk celery and/or green olives for garnish\n\nCocktails are uniquely personal, which is why it’s important to put some thought into what you want to choose for your big day. In addition to keeping your guests and seasonality in mind, make sure to choose drinks from [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that really resonate with you as a couple. After all, you’re likely going to want something tasty to sip at your [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) and reception.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Registry"}},"widget2":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Seasons_Quiz"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Today’s couples are craving experiences instead of gifts. Our date ideas are fabulous to add to your wedding registry to make memories with your love.","title":"12 Fabulous Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry","slug":"12-fabulous-date-ideas-to-put-on-your-registry","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XFbyLUjyLaqT7gm3RrHDI/8a01b731d6339621e591c9e2915835bd/hannah-busing-zhDREn4OqY8-unsplash.jpg","altText":"Date Ideas to Put on Your Registry"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Elevate your wedding with delicious wine and cake pairings. This guide will help you find your perfect wedding dessert and wine pairing.","title":"13 Cake and Wine Pairings to Elevate Your Wedding Menu","slug":"cake-and-wine-pairings","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1pXqrnUxuPmMAkE8RuL9jk/8ee5c6098d0fc8a66ce5036f62ba8ab9/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_13-cake-and-wine-pairings.jpg","altText":"cake and wine pairing"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Craft your dream wedding menu with our creative food ideas. Find inspiration for delicious dishes to delight guests on your special day.","title":"75 Best Wedding Food Ideas for Your Big Day","slug":"wedding-food-ideas","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Yh2thV4KikLWgKFwM1DDJ/97bed3c6cb2c54e71d511ac0803d112b/wedding-food-hero__1_.jpg","altText":"White plate with assorted bruschetta."},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Say thank you to your wedding party with this list of 70 bridesmaid gift ideas. We’ve organized the gifts by theme and we’ll also fill you in on how much you should spend per bridesmaid. ","title":"70 Bridesmaid Gift Ideas To Say Thank You to Your Wedding Party","slug":"bridesmaid-gift-ideas","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/22sFwGzGCzpFItV1N4bGAq/85831ac4d2cdd8951259505ac56443f6/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"bridesmaid-gift-ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar. ","title":"Open Bar Weddings: A Guide","slug":"open-bar-weddings-a-guide","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/6b6158268ae9bec7fea520eeb46fa96a/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg","altText":"A guide to Open Bar Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"From koozies to succulents, infused oil to hand sanitizer, there are a lot of wedding favors to consider when selecting for your big day. With that in mind, we’ve compiled the best wedding favors, to take the guesswork out of gifts for your guests.","title":"30 Wedding Favor Ideas To Make Your Guests Smile","slug":"best-wedding-favors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3Fivh6xtQQk3GFRAs53LEY/1f5bcf4fa5c218e776e61a56cea3e1d0/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Best Wedding Favors"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Build Your Zola Registry","url":"https://www.zola.com/onboard/new"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:57.615Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-to-save-money-with-a-cash-bar-at-your-wedding","title":"Cash Bar at Wedding Explained + 6 Tips to Save Money","excerpt":"One way to save money on your big day is to have a cash bar wedding. Our guide includes cash bar etiquette and invitation wording samples. ","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2021-01-19T16:37:21.804Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg","altText":"Cash Bar at Your Wedding"},"heroCredit":"Emma Cleary Photo and Video","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- A cash bar is where guests pay for drinks themselves; however, you can have a limited or ticketed version.\n- It is a proper cash bar etiquette to inform your guests ahead of time that they need to bring cash or a card. \n- Even with a cash bar, designate someone to cut off guests who overdrink or are drunk.","body":"*Want to keep track of your wedding budget? [Try our free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.*\n\nAs your wedding attendants are busy planning their __[toast speeches](https://zola.app.link/dxLaAGyN71)__, you’re deciding what to pour into their glasses, and that not only includes the drink for the toast, but also the [bar options for the entire reception](https://zola.app.link/SiNeuzyN71). Dollar signs click away as your budget increases. An [open bar wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide) can often be attached to a lot of dollar signs; however, you can save money by having a __[beer and wine](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-host-a-wedding-with-no-hard-liquor)__ only wedding reception or a cash bar at your wedding. From wording your __[wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop)__ to limited bar etiquette, here are our top tips for successfully pulling off a cash bar.\n\n![Zola: How to Save Money With a Cash Bar at Your Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/74XxTvMMbYgx5gBJ7yhaKr/c7a899e46d38a936c4bbb923bd8181a3/inline_Tall___Small_Event.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Tall Small Event\n\n## How Does a Cash Bar Work? \n\nThink of cash bar service as being like a traditional bar. Patrons come up, order what they want to drink, and either start a tab or pay on the spot—viola! It’s easy, and that’s quite similar to how a cash bar works. It's easy for wedding guests to understand when they can go and order their signature cocktail or multiple [alcoholic beverages](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception) during cocktail hour.\n\nHowever, with a limited selection bar at your wedding reception, there are a few other options. You may not be able to have a [hosted bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding) filled with every selection under the sun. And that’s ok, as there are a few different ways to handle a cash bar.\n\n- __Ticketed Cash Bar:__ Some couples don’t wish to commit to a cash bar fully. However, they need to avoid paying for guests who want a lot to drink. A good in-between option is to have a cash bar with tickets, where guests receive one to two vouchers for free drinks. When their tickets run out, they need to ante up and pay for their alcohol from the full bar. \n- __Limited Cash Bar:__ Just because you have a cash bar doesn’t mean that your bartender needs to offer __[anything and everything](https://zola.app.link/hAcrL9YGq9)__. You don’t necessarily need five different vodkas and specialty vermouths on your wedding day. Talk to your bartender about what spirits he or she recommends, or simply go with __[beer](https://zola.app.link/hnFNhcbm2cb)__, soft drinks, and bottles of __[wine](https://zola.app.link/33xRJvdm2cb)__ to keep it simple.\n-__Traditional Cash Bar:__ If you want to go traditional, each drink is paid for by the guests. However, still do Champagne or a signature drink for your toast. The toast should be complimentary, of course. You can save a little bit of money by having staff only fill the __[toasting glasses](https://zola.app.link/ZLPQEMfm2cb)__ halfway—that way, less alcohol goes to waste.\n\n## Cash Bar Wedding Etiquette\n\n![Zola: How to Save Money With a Cash Bar at Your Wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg)\n*Photo Credit * // Emma Cleary Photo and Video\n\n### Inform Your Guests That You’re Having a Cash Bar Wedding\nMaking your guest list aware ahead of time is where it gets a bit tricky. You don’t want to keep your cash bar service a secret, as you need loved ones to prepare in advance. The last thing you want is to surprise your guests and have them scrambling for wallets or their credit card to pay for their own drinks. It’s proper cash bar etiquette to be upfront with your attendees. That way they can determine the amount of alcohol they want to drink.\n\n### Skip the Tip Jar, and Pay for Gratuity Yourself\nAlso, there is a bit of a debate about having a tip jar. A cash bar is preferable for some guests over a [dry wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-sober-wedding). However, some may balk at having to pay and leave a tip after paying for alcohol. One way to get around this is to pay for the gratuity yourself. Many venues and caterers [include tips](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors) in the contract, yet giving each bartender a $50 to $100 bonus is appreciated.\n\n### Give Your Cash Bar Service Provider’s Permission to Cut Guests Off\nUnfortunately, you may have some guests who will drink too much, even though they are footing the bill. However, just because they are paying, you still need to create a responsible reception atmosphere. Give your bartender, staff member, or designated relative the authority to talk to individual guests. That way, that individual can cut people off if guests are __[consuming too much](https://zola.app.link/9f8cK8YiI9)__.\n\n## Cash Bar Invitation Wording\nWhen conveying that you have a cash bar service, it’s essential to use proper communication. Place the information on both your __[wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website)__ and your invitations, so that your guests quickly see it. Here are a few examples of how to tactfully say cash bar, ranging from formal to creative. \n\n- __Formal:__ We can’t wait to celebrate with you and host you for dinner. Unfortunately, we have chosen a cash bar, so please bring cash or a credit card to enjoy bar service.\n- __Casual:__ Dinner’s on us. Drinks are on you. So, if you want to consume, bring a buck or two (or a credit card).\n- __Two Drink Tickets:__ We are excited to host you for dinner. However, if you would like more than two drinks, please bring cash or a credit card for our cash bar service. \n- __One Drink Ticket:__ Our wedding will be beautiful and our reception fun. With drinks, bring cash if you want more than one.\n\n## Cash Bar Pros and Cons\nThere are many pros and cons to having a cash bar, and not all of them are about your wedding budget. Weigh these factors when trying to come up with a middle ground while wedding planning for your big day. \n\n### What are the pros of having a cash bar?\nHaving a cash bar is very cost-effective for the ones hosting the wedding. If your wedding party or others decide to overdo the bubbly, you aren’t stuck with an expensive bill. As far as guests are concerned, having a cash bar can also be a pro, especially if someone is prone to drink a bit too much white wine if they don’t have to pay. Charging guests can help eliminate over-drinking, which can be a relief for some attendees.\n\n### What are the cons of having a cash bar? \nA DIY cash bar can have some negative connotations and seem a bit tacky for some guests. Of course, you don’t want to come off as cheap, which is what some folks will unfortunately remember. Asking guests to pay impacts the overall hospitality at the event. Plus, having your bartender mix drinks and take payments can also hold up the bar line at your wedding venue.\n\n## 6 Extra Tips to Save Money + With Cash Bar\n1. __Allow guests to bring their own alcohol.__ Don’t want to spring for luxe bourbon? Have your guests bring their own. That way, they can have whatever they’d like at their own expense while still having something they enjoy. Just make sure to let them know ahead of time that this is an option.\n\n2. __Serve drinks in simple glasses.__ Forget the fancy barware, which can break, anyway. Go with plain glasses for drinking to save on your wedding budget.\n\n3. __Only provide a signature cocktail.__ One way to have your event seem more upscale without spending a ton on alcohol is to serve one or two signature drinks. Voila! With a very limited amount of choices, you won’t break the bank. \n\n4. __Set specific bar hours.__ Instead of serving alcohol in an open bar, have a specific opening and closing time. Doing so is a great way to limit over-indulgence.\n\n5. __Consider hosting a daytime or weekday wedding.__ If you have a flexible schedule, try an off-time wedding. These events are normally less expensive anyway, which can include a break on bar service.\n\n6. __Have a toonie bar.__ A what? If you haven’t heard of the term, it’s a different take on a traditional cash or limited bar. Basically, guests throw in a few dollars for every drink each time they go to the bar. That way, the bartender doesn’t have to worry about playing cashier, and guests can throw in a few bucks or a twenty.\n\n## One Last Word About a Cash Bar Wedding\nWe realize that weddings are expensive. A lot of planning and financing goes into one day. However, think about your guests when you’re considering a cash bar. Many are traveling, and there are other expenses to factor in for those who attend. They may purchase new clothing, spring for a babysitter, and—hopefully—__[buy you a gift](https://zola.app.link/eHihVjjt52)__.\n\nInstead of using a tacky cash bar, it may be better to go with a ticketed or limited option. Doing so will let your guests know that you appreciate their attendance. However, having the host spring for some—but not all—alcoholic drinks communicates that you don’t want anyone over-consuming. Most wedding professionals will encourage you to go another route before solely going with cash bar service.\n\nOf course, you know your guests and your finances best. Therefore choose whichever option you and your partner feel most comfortable utilizing. No matter what, your family and friends will enjoy celebrating with you on one of the most important days of your life.\n\n## Zola: Your Place for Wedding Bar Planning\nIf you like full-service bars, you’ll love Zola’s full-service approach to breaking down wedding bar service. From timely articles to a handy [wedding alcohol calculator](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding), Zola is at the ready. After all, no one wants to have too much leftover alcohol (hello, expensive!) or run out and cut the party off early. ","tag":"How To","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:55.597Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-much-do-you-tip-your-wedding-bartender","title":"How Much Do You Tip Your Wedding Bartender?","excerpt":" Planning a wedding day has a lot of moving parts to keep track of. One major thing is how much to tip specific vendors, especially when it comes to the wedding bartender. ","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-11-01T19:13:49.991Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4vomS6tVcnuDErXPtgeGpY/5fd5dac0aec90e8ecf1b74bae39f19ba/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"How Much Do You Tip Your Wedding Bartender?"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- There are a few things to keep in mind when tipping bartenders at your wedding, such as if they are hired through a catering vendor or separately. \n- Typically people tip between 18-25 percent of the total bill for the evening, but this is also reflected in the duration of the wedding reception and other factors. \n- Be sure to plan ahead if you will be tipping with a cash tip or card, so that way you can present it accordingly.","body":"Many people know to tip servers and bartenders at restaurants, hairstylists at hair salons, and other service industry members when a service is properly performed. But, did you know that tipping also applies to your [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors)? When you’re in the process of planning your wedding and booking vendors for your big day, you may find, during the contract signing, that a line item for gratuity is listed; however, many vendors do not include this. If not stated, what do you do when it comes to tipping your wedding bar and bartender? \n\nWhen it comes to [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) your wedding, one thing that people generally don't want to skimp on is [the bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas). Bartenders play an important role in a wedding––they keep the drinks flowing. They also make sure that the various kinds of wines, liquors, and soft drinks that you want are fully stocked, while also pouring beverages and making various cocktails. \n\nGenerally speaking, bartenders do a lot of things behind the scenes that you may not even realize. They try to help set the tone for the guests with small talk, keep them happy throughout the event, and also keep an eye on who may be drinking too much, as well as adjust what they are serving as a way of doing some damage control. Given the job that they have, tipping them accordingly is important. Here are several things to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to tip your bartenders.\n\n### How Much Do You Tip? \nKnowing how much to tip is always something that comes up, and for people who are in the service industry, being tipped well can make a huge difference. A good general rule of thumb is to tip between 18-25 percent. If someone gave you exceptional service, showing your appreciation of them via a good tip is always the way to go. \n\nAnother thing to take into consideration is the vendor's contract. If you hired a caterer and they have bartenders included in their events’ package, double-check to see if gratuity is included in the price. If this is the case, then the tip will be divided up among the various staff that worked your event, but it’s important to find out for sure. If gratuity is not included, then you can apply an 18-25 percent tip onto the total of whatever the catering bill is. If you’ve hired a more expensive catering company and are working out how much to pay various staff, you can also offer a flat rate of gratuity per worker.\n\nAccording to Jordan Catapano, co-founder of [This Girl Walks Into a Bar LLC](https://www.thisgirlwalksintoabar.com/), “When gratuity is included, it’s important to ask how many people will be splitting the tip. Twenty percent added gratuity can be fantastic for a crew of five, but not so great for a staff of ten. Everyone’s role in the success of a wedding is important, but if there’s one area of service that particularly stood out then tipping more is always appreciated.”\n\nWhen it comes to tipping bartenders at your wedding, you want to think about the overall job that they are doing and also the level of service being provided. Typically, bars with weddings are extremely busy throughout the reception, and, as such, bartenders will be the members of the service wait staff that will interact with guests the most. These things should factor into the tip. Catapano suggests tipping $100 to each bartender, and to keep in mind that the average length of most bar shifts are six to 10 hours. \n\nHowever, you may decide to hire bartenders separately from a catering company. If you’re hiring bartenders and mixologists separately, be sure to negotiate an hourly rate that both you and they are happy with. From there, you can apply a similar equation as stated above, where you can tip 18-25 percent of the total bill. \n\n### Hiring a Bartender Separately: Tips and Cost Considerations \n\nHiring a bartender separately from a catering company does offer some advantages. If you decide to go that route, you do want to keep several things in mind. Catapano noted that they can use their mixology expertise to help give you and your wedding guests an even more memorable experience. They will also offer “guidance when planning the drink menu, and a specialist behind the bar to execute those drinks,” Catapano said. \n\nWhen it comes to the bar, details matter, so you want to work with someone who will think ahead. “We’ve worked too many events where the bar isn’t stocked with the appropriate equipment to create drinks quickly, or where the correct ingredients aren’t supplied for the signature drinks. Fresh lime juice is very different from concentrated lime juice. Lemonade is not a substitute for margarita mix. Cranberry juice and cran-raspberry juice are not always interchangeable. The bar at a wedding is the artery of the party,” Catapano said.\n\nWhen you’re hiring a bartender separately, Catapano also offered these tips:\n\n- Try to have a 50:1 guest to bartender ratio for the best possible service. There’s some wiggle room here depending on the drink selection.\n- Your specialty drink menu should max out at five, but three is ideal. The more specialty drinks offered, the longer the bar line, and the more one will have to buy for ingredients.\n- If the bar won’t have sink access, any cocktail that requires muddling is discouraged. If the couple has their heart set on muddled jalapeño and mint margaritas, speak with the bartending company in advance about how to prep for a drink like that in advance.\n- Think about having batched drinks. It can not only save time, but also cut down on waste and save a lot of money. They also add lovely, inviting décor to the bar.\n\nThe other thing to keep in mind is what the cost of this is and how much to tip.\nOften this will be an hourly rate, however the rate depends on your region; a typical hourly rate ranges from $30 to $50 per hour, plus 18-25 percent gratuity. “Negotiating a flat rate works best when the [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) has a hard stop and load out time. If the evening’s end time is fluid, a flat rate could cost the couple more than necessary or short-change the bar staff,” Catapano added. \n\nThere’s also the uncomfortable situation when a flat rate has been negotiated and the staff underwhelms the couple with their service. If a generous gratuity was already given but, in the end, not earned, it leaves a bad taste in the mouth of the couple on a day that should have nothing but warm and positive vibes. \n\n### Do You Tip at a Cash Bar? \n\nWhen it comes to a cash bar, when guests are paying for their drinks, various companies have policies about tip jars. However, unless a couple gives the okay for one, the industry standard is not to have one. If guests choose to tip on their own that is up to them. However, the bartender should be tipped by the people hired for the service they provide, regardless if the bar is cash or not. \n\n### Do You Tip With Cash or on a Credit Card?\nGenerally, most people consider cash to be king and if you plan ahead you can make sure that you have enough cash to tip your bartender. However, if you don't have cash on hand, tipping on the card is always an option. One thing to keep in mind is that because of credit card transactions it may sometimes take a few days for the bartender and other staff to be able to get the tip from the credit card. The advantage of tipping in cash is that they are able to leave with their tip immediately. \n\nIf you’re tipping with cash, be sure to plan ahead and make sure that you have enough money. Also, you may want to place it in an envelope. Generally, it’s also presented at the end of the wedding reception after the wedding is over. However, if you’re tipping on your credit card, this will usually be done prior to the wedding, due to the contract that is signed. \n\nGenerally bartenders are known for going above and beyond when it comes to customer service. If there’s a lull, they’ll leave the bar to pick up abandoned plates and cups, circulate the party with a bottle of white wine and a bottle of red wine to top off glasses, or bring the couple fresh cocktails when they can’t seem to make their way to the bar. Having a tip that reflects this and how your bartender staff contributed to your big day is important.","stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:03.462Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"how-much-should-you-budget-for-an-open-bar-at-your-wedding","title":"How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ","excerpt":"Eat, drink and be merry. But how much will it cost to have an open bar at your wedding?","publishedAt":"2021-01-20T20:23:25.691Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/72HwpcWjht9IZluxajuyqN/373062c6414445622adac74eec1731b1/inline_shutterstock.jpg","altText":"Budget for an Open Bar"},"heroCredit":"Shutterstock","body":"*Want to keep track of your wedding budget? [Try our free budget tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-budget) with payment reminders and tips on how much to spend.*\n\nWhether you’re having a summer soiree or high class celebration, [alcohol](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding) is deeply intertwined with weddings of all kinds. From the champagne toasts to the drinks that provide the liquid courage for your guests to hit the dancefloor, alcohols of various types have found special places amongst wedding receptions.\n\nBut this begs one important question amidst wedding planning: Are you planning to foot the bill for your guests to drink on the house? What will that look like? If you’re planning to have an open bar, there’s a lot to consider when determining a budget. Here are aspects to consider when calculating the potential costs.\n\n## The Deal With Alcohol Packages\nFrom full open bars, to limited bars, to signature cocktails, various levels of alcohol packages can land you at vastly different price points—effecting your entire wedding budget. That’s why it’s important to know all the pricing information when including a bar of any sort in your cocktail hour, reception, or both.\n\nThere are different lengths to which you can go when it comes to an open bar, like only covering certain types of booze or only offering a particular selection to begin with. Each of these options will effect your bottom line, so it's paramount you know what's what.\n\n![Zola: How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1eUMMFdGPQWoD5LUCmohGA/29bb6a052a521bd1b10ead9fb12c64ec/inline_carley_k_photography.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Carley K Photography\n\n## Types of Open Bars\nTypically, there are two types of [open bars](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/open-bar-weddings-a-guide) your venue will allow you to choose from. The first will offer a few beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, an assortment of regular or top-shelf spirits (typically vodka, tequila, gin, rum, bourbon, and whiskey), mixers (e.g. tonic water, club soda, juices, and margarita mix), and some non-alcoholic options (e.g. sodas, flat water, and sparkling water). You can also ask them to include a champagne, different bottle of wine (like a rosé), or similar for an additional cost.\n\nHowever, if this top-tier full bar option is out of budget or might not go to good use, you have a second option to consider. Most venues will also offer a limited open bar, which features beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic drinks, mixers, and limited or no spirits. As always, we recommend checking with your venue to get the specifics of what options they have available.\n\n## Beer and Wine Only\nAs a shock to just about nobody, beer and wine are almost always less expensive than liquor. Far less expensive. So, if your crowd's more the type to sip on a hearty beer or refreshing wine, as opposed to going for mixed drinks, we highly suggest considering this option.\n\nUnder this banner, you may also want to check with your venue and see if you're able to [bring your own beer and bubbly](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-buy-alcohol-for-your-reception). Not all venues will allow this—many that include catering and a bar won't allow you to bring in other food or drinks—but you might be surprised at those who do. Buying beer and wine by the case often results in wholesale discounts, which could considerably bring down the cost of your program. All while supplying guests with the option of unlimited booze of their favorite varieties.\n\n## Signature Drinks\nAnother, often less expensive, route you could explore is offering a signature drink (or drinks). Often, venues can work with you to offer your standard beers and wines, while also including around three signature cocktails in leu of a full open bar of spirits. In this case, guests will then have the option of selecting from the beers, wines, or signature preset drinks included in your bar package. These drinks are typically special to the newly wed couple, with your options depending on what ingredients the bar has available. \n\nFor example, if your bar won't have espresso available, they won't be able to create espresso martinis. If you haven't already been provided one in your venue proposal, request a list of ingredients (beers, wine, spirits, mixers) your bar has and work from there. Deciding on a limited number of drinks—and, therefore, ingredients being used—should considerable help with the open bar cost. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to reminisce on drinks that may be favorable or important to you, then give them fun names.\n\n__Note:__ If you opt for a full open bar, you should still be able to create and advertise signature cocktails. Just ask your venue coordinator for some assistance getting that set up.\n\n## Open Bar for Certain Hours\nSay you want a full or partially full open bar, but are expecting to have a lengthy reception. Perhaps your budget can only cover up to so much. If this ends up being the case, don't worry, you still have an option. Many venue bars or vendors will provide you with the ability to have an open bar for a certain amount of time. For example, it will usually open for service immediately as your cocktail hour begins, run through the cocktail hour, then stay open for the first hour or two the reception. After that, it typically becomes a cash bar, in which guests pay for their remaining drinks individually.\n\n![Zola: How Much Should You Budget for an Open Bar at Your Wedding? ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/72HwpcWjht9IZluxajuyqN/373062c6414445622adac74eec1731b1/inline_shutterstock.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Shutterstock\n\n## Other Things to Consider\nNow that you've got the basics of an open bar down, let's chat about some important details that shouldn't go undiscussed.\n\n### Who’s Handling Bar Service?\nWhile many traditional wedding venues provide their own alcohol and bar (think hotels and event spaces), many others don't. When discussing your options with potential venues, ask for a description of what they have available. If it's your initial in-person meeting or venue tour, simply ask if the venue provides a bar, bartender, and bar back. If they do, request more detailed information (ingredients, operable hours, etc.) in your venue proposal.\n\nIf the venue doesn't have their own bar on site (think parks, gardens, and estates), you'll need to hire a vendor separately. The downside to this is having to coordinate with an extra vendor. However, the upside is that you may be able to further customize your options and hours, costing you less money in the long run.\n\n### What Should Be Included?\nWe already took a look at what's included in different potential bar packages, but for simplicity and remembrance's sake, we've include a quick cheat sheet below. As mentioned before, this is generally what's included in these kinds of packages. We highly recommend talking in detail with your vendor about what they specifically have available.\n\n- __Full open bar:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, an assortment of regular or premium liquors (typically vodka, tequila, gin, rum, bourbon, and whiskey), mixers (e.g. tonic water, club soda, juices, and margarita mix), and some non-alcoholic beverages (e.g. sodas, flat water, and sparkling water). You can also ask them to include a champagne or similar for an additional cost.\n- __Limited open bar:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic beverages, mixers, and limited or no spirits.\n- __Beer, wine, signature drinks:__ Beer selections (domestic and premium), a premium red and premium white wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and a few specifically selected and pre-discussed mixed drinks.\n- __Beer and wine:__ Beer selections, a premium red and premium white wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.\n\nAside from the standard ingredients, your open bar should include the appropriate glasses or cups, bottle openers, shakers, corkscrews, garnishes, ice, ice tongs, ice buckets, coolers, rags, and cocktail napkins.\n\n### How Much Does an Open Bar Cost Per Person?\nThe price-per-person can vary based on your location, venue, and alcohol package. On average, the standard cost-per-person can be from $11 to $45 a head, with the average being around $20-$30. For a generalized list of what you might expect, look below. These are the average costs per person, depending on your drink package.\n\n- __Full open bar:__ $35-$45/person\n- __Limited open bar:__ $20-$25/person\n- __Beer and wine only:__ $15-20/person\n\n### How Do You Handle Gratuity?\nOne important additional thing to ask your venue or alcohol vendor about is gratuity. Depending on the vendor, a gratuity cost may or may not already be added into your bar package and listed in your initial contract. Note that this isn't the same thing as a service fee. If it isn't, you'll need to determine how you plan to calculate and pay it.\n\nIf a bar and bartending services are included as a part of your venue or caterer's package, you can expect gratuity to be a line item in your contract. However, if it isn't—or if you hired out your bartender separately—vendor etiquette suggest that you tip ten to fifteen percent of your pre-tax alcohol package bill. That being said, a tip is extra money based on met or exceeded expectations. If your bartender(s) did a phenomenal job all evening, consider tipping an amount that reflects that.\n\n## The Pros and Cons of an Open Bar\nFinal cost aside, there are various pro's and con's to hosting an open bar at your wedding. Whether money is of no issue or you've figured it all out, but need some more to think about, consider the following.\n\n- __Pro: Guests will appreciate it__. The biggest pro of having an open bar is the satisfaction of your guests. Your loved ones are sure to appreciate the freedom to enjoy themselves without fussing with cash or worrying about their budget.\n- __Pro: It keeps things moving.__ When you have an open bar, bartenders don't need to worry about processing tons of separate transactions. Everything's already paid for. Guests, too, don't need to waste time fishing around their wallets. This results in a faster line, which in turn results in more time the wedding guests can dance, chat, and celebrate.\n- __Con: Guests can over-indulge.__ A legitimate fear of having an open bar is the potential for a guest or guests to take advantage of it. Too-drunk friends or family run the risk of ruining your night, if not making a temporary scene. To avoid this, you can ask the bartender to limit certain individuals or have a drink ticket system in place.\n- __Con: It's more expensive for you.__ Typically, the hosts of the wedding are the ones responsible for picking up the open bar tab (usually before the wedding takes place). With a cash bar, your guests share in some of the financial burden. However, with an open bar, you pay for everyone to enjoy.\n\nGenerally, in the end a cash bar might help you save money, but an open bar will ensure everyone has a stress-free, good time.\n\n## Tips to Save Money on an Open Bar\nAt the end of the day, you might decide that an open bar is the right call for your wedding reception. However, that doesn't mean you can't still try to save some money. Here are a handful of our favorite tips when it comes to bringing down that bottom line.\n\n- __Ask if you can BYOB.__ As we previously mentioned, supplying your own alcohol can drastically cut down costs. Venues won't always allow this, but it's worth the ask, even if you want a limited bar and to bring your own champagne or rosé.\n- __Implement drink tickets.__ When only a certain amount of alcohol can be consumed, only a certain amount of ingredients are needed. This will likely end up being less than what's usually included in a full open bar, naturally bringing the price down.\n- __Ask if you can exclude certain guests.__ Not many venues will allow this, but it's worth the ask. If you have a handful of people who don't drink, consider asking your vendor if they can avoid being counted in the total per-person cost.\n\nAs you can likely tell, multiple factors come into play when landing on a bottom line for your [open bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) costs. What options are available to you, how much you can customize, and gratuity all come into play and should be given special attention before making a decision. However, once you've gone over the fine details with the appropriate vendor, you should have no problem coming to the best decision for your wedding. We're betting your guests would cheers to that.","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"A signature wedding drink or cocktail can be a great way for couples to add a personal touch to their reception. Get inspired by these wedding signature drinks.","title":"50 Signature Wedding Drinks: Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"choosing-signature-wedding-cocktail","topic":"Venues & vendors","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5h3gAYw13rSUVZfD0AvUuk/17fc3834c08759920aa0df43bb1e8dad/pexels-yoav-franco-19216796.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom with signature cocktails in hand"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Use our wedding alcohol calculator to determine exactly how much alcohol you should buy for your wedding. With this expert guide, ensure a perfectly stocked and joyful celebration!","title":"Wedding Alcohol Calculator: How Much to Buy","slug":"how-to-calculate-alcohol-needs-for-your-wedding","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6EaCtfdbDdIUFA9xL5U9O1/bda7d2659b11ec0eb80b4c31f7642670/pexels-enginakyurt-8485687.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom and guests all celebrating by doing cheers with glasses of champagne"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"One way to save money on your big day is to have a cash bar wedding. Our guide includes cash bar etiquette and invitation wording samples. ","title":"Cash Bar at Wedding Explained + 6 Tips to Save Money","slug":"how-to-save-money-with-a-cash-bar-at-your-wedding","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2lx4Q1d0a5uHyXBsALXy1x/e0be967cded57a6c311ccecac9db8afb/inline_Emma_Cleary_Photo_and_Video.jpg","altText":"Cash Bar at Your Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Open bar weddings are something that couples need to factor into their wedding budget. It can be affordable with our ultimate guide to having an open bar. ","title":"Open Bar Weddings: A Guide","slug":"open-bar-weddings-a-guide","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3VaPTlSy9zYUdPYhwytbuG/6b6158268ae9bec7fea520eeb46fa96a/inline__Chellise_Michael_Photography1.jpg","altText":"A guide to Open Bar Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:38:56.739Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages"},"slug":"what-drinks-are-served-at-cocktail-hour","title":"What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?","excerpt":"Discover how to perfectly tailor your cocktail service to the desires of your guests with these classic cocktail hour beverage options. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-08T03:27:42.035Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3pJUzn1VVoJmNfRmQ1iYme/16a33feb4497c033723bf9da0a402e42/HERO_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg","altText":"Glasses with wine bottle"},"heroCredit":"Zola Inc","body":"Picture this—you and the love of your life have just committed yourselves to each other in a ceremonial display of affection. The ceremony went off without a hitch, and you couldn't be happier with how your wedding day is turning out. It would stand to reason that you are filled with unfathomable joy, and understandably giddy with love. In other words, you’re ready to celebrate this milestone event, so let the celebration begin.\n\nWhile your wedding day is most certainly all about you and your partner, once the ceremony is over, the day shifts from a reverent affair to a joyous celebration. Don't forget that you have invited others to share in the happiness you’re now celebrating, and it’s your job as host to ensure that they are well taken care of. \n\nThe planning you put into your wedding will shape how your guests can enjoy themselves during the reception. The happiness you experience in the minutes and hours after your wedding ceremony is mirrored by your guests' shared desire to celebrate that happiness. It’s vital to remember that the delight of your guests is an essential part of the reception. Their happiness hinges on the cocktail hour.\n\n## Drinks That Are Served at Wedding Cocktail Hours\nOne of the most critical pieces in the puzzle that makes up the perfect reception is the cocktail hour. The cocktail hour is the foundation on which the rest of your reception will stand. Ask anyone who has ever attended a wedding, and they will tell you that a well-planned cocktail hour can make or break a reception. \n\nUsually, a cocktail party includes some form of [entertainment](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-entertain-guests-between-the-wedding-and-reception \"How to Entertain Guests Between the Wedding and Reception\"), socialization, hors d’oeuvres, cocktail party games, and, of course, libations. The wedding menu is different for every cocktail hour, and it’s up to the newlyweds to decide what kind of drinks will be served. While there’s a wide variety of drinks to choose from, there are some standard cocktail options that are outlined in this [wedding alcohol list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-ultimate-wedding-alcohol-list-power-ranking-the-best-adult-wedding \"The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol List: Power Ranking the Best Adult Wedding Beverages\") below.\n\n### Beer and Wine\nServing beer and wine during a cocktail hour is a common practice at most weddings. Beer and wine might not be your guests' first choice in cocktail hour beverages, but it will undoubtedly do the trick. \n\nServing beer and wine at the cocktail hour ensures that no one gets too crazy, too quickly. The last thing you want is for people to be doing tequila shots before cocktail hour food is served. A best practice for a successful cocktail hour is to keep things light. Light hors d 'oeuvres pair perfectly with a small selection of beer and wine.\n\nRemember, there’s still a long night of toasts, speeches, and other traditional reception events to look forward to. These events will go a lot smoother if no one is inebriated. Ensuring that your guests don’t get too intoxicated too early is just one of many reasons to wait on serving hard liquor. \n\nOne of the other reasons for going with beer and wine is that it’s a far more cost-friendly option for you. Hard liquor is expensive, and while beer and wine are not a cheap option, they’re far more budget-friendly than a bottle of vodka or gin. \n\nTypically, couples who choose to do beer and wine will offer a red and a white wine option and a domestic and imported beer option. Offering options is a great way to keep your guests happy, even when you’re limiting the type of alcohol that you're serving.\n\nBeing that they’re both budget-friendly and helpful with incident prevention, beer and wine are excellent cocktail hour beverage options.\n\n### Signature Cocktails\nWedding signature cocktails are a fantastic way to serve liquor without getting into too much trouble, and they can capture your [wedding theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-themes \" 70 Wedding Themes to Inspire Every Type of Couple | Zola\"). Offering a signature wedding cocktail or two is a great way to serve liquor without being too aggressive about it. Many couples pair their signature cocktail with beer and wine service, and it’s common for a wedding couple to provide a free signature cocktail at a cash bar. \n\nYour signature cocktail, or cocktails, can be anything of your choosing. From a classic Old Fashioned to a modern twist on a mint julep, the signature cocktail should be a reflection of the couple. Some couples offer two signature cocktails—one of the bride's choosing and one of the groom's choosing. Often the difference in taste between the two will provide a big enough range for your guests to be happy with at least one of the offerings. \n\n![What Drinks Are Served at Cocktail Hour?](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4AGj2waCvwn0bLGDZBPi1t/b81bb04593324cdd635c18aff4a2377d/INLINE2_TheUltimateWeddingAlcoholList___.jpg) *Photo Credits //* Zola Inc\n\n### The Open Bar\nAsk any event planner, caterer, or venue, and they will tell you that an open bar during cocktail hour is risky business. Here are a few of the pros and cons of an open bar during the wedding cocktail hour:\n\n__Pros:__\n- It's free booze, and people will be really impressed by your hospitality.\n- There will be little complaining about selection or variety.\n\n__Cons:__\n- You run the risk of overserving your guests. \n- Opening the bar this early on will put a big dent in your budget.\n\nWhile it may seem like a good idea to offer your guests a variety of free alcohol, doing this early in the evening may end in disaster. If you’re dead set on providing an open bar, try going the signature cocktail route with beer and wine during the cocktail hour. This is referred to as a modified open bar. \n\nWith the modified open bar, your guests won't have to pay for a drink all night, yet you control the types of drinks they have access to. This method is not only useful for keeping your costs down, but it's also effective for keeping your guests sober enough to remember the first dance. \n\nSave the full bar for after dinner, as it will be a welcome surprise for your guests. No one will complain about free beer and wine during cocktail hour, especially if there’s a signature cocktail, and you still look like a hero for opening the bar later on. For more information, see our guide on *how much does an open bar at a wedding cost?*\n\n### The Cash Bar\nLike the open bar, the cash bar provides your guests with an assortment of spirits that they can choose to indulge in. The difference is that a cash bar often limits the number of trips each individual will take to the bar. \n\nBecause your guests will be paying for their own cocktails, they will be much more judicious with the amount of liquor they’re consuming. This method of serving drinks gives people the freedom to drink what they choose, while mitigating the risk of someone becoming intoxicated too early in the evening's festivities.\n\nStandard practice for cash bars is to offer one or two freebies, such as a domestic beer or a red wine, with everything else being out-of-pocket for your guests. Remember, you can always pull an audible and open up the bar later in the evening during dancing. \n\nOften with a cash bar, drink service will shut down completely during dinner. It is tradition for wine to be served with dinner, and, as a result, the bar is often closed for this portion of the evening's festivities. Some couples will keep one bar open during dinner service, but only for beer and wine in the rare case that the wine being served is not preferable to a guest.\n\n### Non-Alcoholic Options\nWhatever kind of drink service you offer to your guests, make sure that soft drinks are free. Whether your reception is an adult-only affair, or whether there are kids in attendance, no one should have to pay for mixers. \n\nMake sure that you offer those who don’t drink alcohol something to sip on other than water. This is often overlooked, and those guests who just want a soft drink will be grateful for your thoughtfulness. If you really want to go above and beyond for your non-drinking guests, a signature mocktail is a fun way to keep it classy for those keeping it PG. \n\nMost catering companies will offer you the option of serving coffee and tea later in the evening. We recommend you absolutely offer your guests coffee, especially if alcohol is served. You never know who may need a cup of coffee late in the evening, and it’s far better to have it and not need it than the other way around.\n\n## Know Your Audience\nYou created your guest list, so it’s up to you to decide what kind of drinks you want to serve during cocktail hour. You know your family and friends better than anyone. Your insight into their habits as consumers will ultimately play a significant role in the decision you make regarding your cocktail hour. \n\nIt’s important to note that when deciding what drinks to serve at your cocktail hour, you should make your choice based on what is best for your wedding. However, what’s best for your wedding, and the popular choice (ie., an open bar) may not be in alignment. \n\nIt may be strange to think of yourself as the host, but remember that this wedding reception is your celebration. As such, it’s your job to find a balance between showing your guests a good time and ensuring that the event isn't derailed by an alcohol-fueled scene. As stated earlier, you won't have to worry about any of these things on the day of, but planning for them ahead of time is crucial. \n\nWhatever drinks you choose to serve, make sure you get to enjoy them too. Your wedding is a celebration for you and about you, and you deserve something nice. Whether you want to have a special bottle of champagne set aside or do some shots with the wedding party, it's important that you take advantage of a night you will never forget.\n","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Start Planning With Zola","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_PLANNING"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:02.594Z"}],"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages","description":"Can't decide between an open bar, cash bar, or no host bar? Maybe you're considerig a dry wedding? 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Bar & beverages

Can't decide between an open bar, cash bar, or no host bar? Maybe you're considerig a dry wedding? Find expert-approved guides to bar services for weddings, signature drink ideas, and everything else libations and drinks.

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