The Ultimate Wedding Cocktail Hour Checklist

The Ultimate Wedding Cocktail Hour Checklist

The Ultimate Wedding Cocktail Hour Checklist. Mobile Image

Jul 21, 2020

Traditionally, a wedding cocktail hour is held to keep guests entertained while you and your (new!) spouse, bridal party and family take photos. Its a great way to transition your guests into party mode and can set the tone for the rest of your evening. Now that more and more couples are opting for first look photos before the ceremony, cocktail hour has morphed into a kind of pre-reception party that allows you to take a breather, change your dress, do some last-minute primping or even flip your venue. Whether or not youre a traditional or unconventional bride, these cocktail hour must-haves will set the tone for your guests while they wait for you and your boo to be announced.

Music

Music is a must-have for a cocktail hour to get your guests in the dancing mood! Save the hard-hitting tunes for later, but a live band will bring the right amount of energy to the party.

Bar

As implied in the name, a cocktail hour needs cocktails! All your guests will flock to the bar first

Drink Stirrers

A cocktail isnt complete without a cute stir stick. It makes drinks that much more Instagram-able, and is a fun place to personalize your wedding details with your name or hashtag.

Signage

A wooden cheers sign is such a cute cocktail hour addition. An added bonus? You can take it home after the wedding and use it as decor in your kitchen or on your bar cart.

Drink Display

Give your guests a visual aid of the options available at the bar. It makes choosing drinks way more fun, and acts as added cocktail hour decor.

Drink Display

Give your guests a visual aid of the options available at the bar. It makes choosing drinks way more fun, and acts as added cocktail hour decor.

Mini Appetizers

Because miniature versions of your favorite foods just taste better. Cute mini appetizer options are perfect grab-and-go bites that your guests can eat one-handed while they sip on their cocktails. Dont be surprised when everyone starts fawning over these mini corn dogs and tacos!

Signature Cocktails

A wedding tradition that isnt going anywhere anytime soon is the signature cocktail. Create a custom cocktail that reflects each of your tastes, and give them creative names for your guests to order.

Lounge Area

A major key to throwing a successful party is having places for guests to sit and set things down. Scatter mix-and-match lounge vignettes around your cocktail hour for a functional and pretty vibe.