We are loving the way that millennial couples are changing what weddings look like in 2020.
Not stressing about the age-old traditions as much and incorporating their own style and personalities is making for some genuinely remarkable weddings. And when it comes to the cocktail hour, they are blowing the roof off the stuffy, awkward, traditional stuff we are used to. Here some unbelievable, interactive, and creative ways you can snaz up your 2020 wedding cocktail hour.
Think beyond hor d'oeuvres and drinks, and mix in some fun activities that will really get your wedding guests mingling and having fun. From signature drinks to fun lawn games, and statement wedding decor, cocktail hours are becoming more creative and interactive than ever before.
INTERACTIVE GAMES
At Bavaria Downs, we have several beautiful outdoor areas that are perfect for your cocktail reception and provide plenty of space for some fun and games. Don’t think that a wedding is not a place for games, because it absolutely is! Your guests will love the creativity and uniqueness at your cocktail hour, and it will immediately have them feeling festive.
Incorporate some of your favorite things such as an oversized Jenga game, corn-hole, roasting marshmallows to make s’mores, or cocktail hour bingo. You could also have an oversized checkerboard table set up, or a quirky photo booth. These are great ways to get your guests that don’t know each other to loosen up and start chatting. After all, a wedding is a celebration of families joining together as one. And you want your wedding guests to enjoy meeting other people that are important in your lives.
In the past, before couples started fusing their unique personalities into the cocktail hour, this part of the wedding always seemed a little awkward. We are so excited to see couples really put their soul into every part of their day, making it the most memorable wedding of all.
FOOD & DRINKS - BUT FUN!
If you really want to make an impact on your wedding guests, create a unique menu for your cocktail reception. Have fun creating signature drinks and DIY food stations that will keep your guests moving throughout your reception rather than just standing in one corner or at the bar. Bavaria Downs has so much beauty and unexpected elements; you will want your guests to take it all in. Creating these interactive activities at your cocktail hour allows them to feel the magic of the breathtaking palatial grounds and estate.
Here are some creative ideas for your cocktail hour food and drinks:
Mini-Popsicle Cocktails
Who needs a regular glass with ice and a sipping straw when you have your cocktail (or mocktail for those who don’t drink) served as a popsicle? This idea is so creative all of your guests will love it!
Tasting Table
This has to be one of our favorite interactive cocktail ideas ever! Organize a tasting table at your cocktail hour. Yes! Encourage your guests to try pairings of local beers or favorite wine as a “tasting” experience. This is such a genius idea because it opens your guests up to things they may otherwise have not tried. You can also offer samples of cheese or have a sommelier there to explain and suggest other wines. It is a great way to introduce your closest family and friends to the wine and local beers that you love. Tip: Have some small cards on hand with the name of the wine or beers so that if they like it and want to purchase some, they know what it is called.
D.I.Y. Bars
We all know after the ceremony, your guests are ready for a cocktail, but long lines at the bar can frustrate them. We suggest setting up DIY bars to allow them to make their own drink. And not just one, have at least two drink stations in different areas of the reception space so that the lines will be manageable. One of our favorite ideas is having a wine station, draft beer stations, and even a coffee bar. Also, remember to have a station set up for kids too.
D.I.Y. Food Stations
Forget the boring passed snacks at your cocktail hour, why not create food stations that allow guests to make their own snack. Being creative with your choices can really make your wedding reception unforgettable. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Waffle Bar
Your guests will definitely start mingling as they create their waffles. It is just something so unexpected at a wedding that they will want to talk about it. Before you know it, new friends are made. Suggestion: have mini-waffles, and mixed fresh fruits, and of course, don’t forget the syrup.
Guacamole Bar
No definition needed for this one, we are sure. Everyone loves guacamole. We recommend you pump it up a notch and make it more gourmet by adding toppings like grilled pineapple, smoked pulled chicken, crispy bacon, mango, and lump crab. Guacamole will never be the same again.
Spud Bar
A potato bar is another great idea for your cocktail hour. At this potato bar, you can offer a choice between mashed, baked, or fried, along with a variety of toppings.
Pasta Bar
Ask your caterer to create an interactive table with a chef to customize mini pasta dishes. Your guests can select their preferred noodles and add a mixture of vegetables, meats, cheeses, and sauces.
Throughout your wedding planning, you will probably receive tons of advice from family, friends, and even co-workers on what to include at your wedding. A lot of this advice will come from the idea that it is your day, so you should do what “you” want. While this is true, it is also essential that you consider your guests when you are deciding on your wedding details. You are inviting these people to celebrate with you because they mean a lot to you. You want to be sure that they not only have a good time, but they also feel valued and cared for.
The guest experience is a popular topic right now in the world of weddings. Raising the bar after your “I Do’s” is a sure-fire way to turn your cocktail hour from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few unexpected details.