The bar is one of the most anticipated elements of a modern wedding. A cocktail hour has become a staple that allows all your guests to mingle and connect. Of course, a drink in their hand will make for smooth, flowing conversation. Get inspired for your signature cocktail menu, with these 16 drinks that are guest-approved. 

1. Whiskey Ginger

East to make, this 3-ingredient drink is semi-sweet and comparatively cheap. It is make with your favorite whiskey, ginger ale, and a fresh wedge of lime. Stir it all up in a highball glass, and you’ve got a basic but delicious cocktail.

2. Paloma

A tequila-based signature cocktail, a Paloma consists of tequila, lime juice and grapefruit soda. Depending on your preference, you can sweeten it up with agave nectar. Bright and fresh, it’s perfect for a chic warm-weather event.

3. Bourbon Peach Tea

An easy wedding cocktail, Bourbon Peach Tea is a southern staple. It combines smooth bourbon, sweet peaches, tea, fresh lemon and thyme, plus a touch of fruity. Serve it in an old mason jar for a rustic touch.

4. Cosmopolitan

Made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and lime, Cosmos are a mix of sweet and sour. Depending on your preference, use fresh or sweetened lime juice. Fresh juice will lend a more tart finish. Garnish with a lime wedge and your have a perfectly pink sharp drink.

5. Caribbean Mist

 Fun and colorful, consider a Cribbean Mist for your destination or oceanside wedding. A mix of Mango Rum, pineapple juice, soda water and Blue Curacao, is has a refreshing tropical taste. Sugar the rim, and you have a tasty signature cocktail.

6. Manhattan

Timeless and tasty, a Manhattan makes a regular appearance on wedding bar menus. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, is packs a punch. Depending on your taste and the look you’re going for, consider topping it with a maraschino cherry. A Manhattan is traditionally served on the rocks in a lowball glass.

7. Hot Toddy

Also known as a Hot Whiskey, a Hot Toddy is a must-have drink for any winter wedding. Surprisingly light, it is a concoction of hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon. This drink is typically reserved for the end of the night, as it is more for sipping on. If you prefer, it can also be made with a hot rum or brandy instead of whiskey.

8. Watermelon Refresher

A popular summer wedding cocktail, Watermelon Refreshers are oh so juicy. Made with lime, watermelon and coconut water, it is refreshing and hydrating. The lime adds the perfect amount of acidity, while fresh watermelon and coconut are naturally sweet.

9. Grapefruit Mimosas

Perfect for a breakfast toast, we’re loving Grapefruit Mimosas. An easy to follow recipe, simply mix fresh grapefruit juice with chilled champagne. Before serving, garnish with thyme and grapefruit chunks. This brunch wedding cocktail is so tasty it will leave your guests wishing they were bottomless

10. Moscow Mule

A popular drink year round, Moscow Mule’s are a recognizable option your guests won’t be able to resist. Combining spicy ginger beer, cold vodka and a dash of lime makes for a delicious fizzy beverage. For extra points you can serve it in an iconic copper mug.

11. Mint Julep

Muddled with mint and simple syrup, this refreshing bourbon based cocktail is perfect for warm weather weddings. Top it with a fresh mint sprig for an aromatic garnish. We recommend serving it in a frosted highball or Mint Julep glass.

12. Berry Mojito

As beautiful as they are delicious, Berry Mojito’s combine rum and seltzer water, with a fresh hint of mint, lime and berries. This cocktail is best served when the berries you plan to feature are in season! We recommend both raspberries and blackberries, although you can do one or the other.

13. Gin Martini

A strong drink with a dry profile, Gin Martini’s are always a hit. Easy to customize, it starts with gin and vermouth that is shaken or stirred with ice. Once strained into a glass, garnish it with an olive or lemon twist.

14. White Russian

This unique drink is a must-have indulgence for a breakfast wedding. Made with vodka, Kahlua and heavy cream, it is rich and decadent. It is sort of like an adult milkshade served on the rocks in an old fashioned glass. If you want to spruce it up for a holiday or winter wedding, add a dash of peppermint.

15. Cuba Libre

A Cuba Libre is a drink for your classic rum and coke lovers. This version however has a hint of lime, for a refreshing tang that cuts through the sweetness of the soda. 

16. Cape Cod

A signature cocktail with vodka, a Cape Cod is a simple and vibrant (both in taste and color) drink. Combine vodka and cranberry juice before pouring it into a highball glass with ice. Garnish with a fresh wedge of lime.

When it comes to signature cocktail names, we recommend keeping it basic. This way guests can easily understand whats on the menu. If you choose to go with a more quirky title, take care to list the ingredients.