What’s Up, Doc Cocktail
The What’s Up, Doc cocktail is a drink built with bourbon whiskey, fernet-Branca, carrot juice, ginger juice, and lemon juice!
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and the bar is where the party comes alive. A thoughtfully curated wedding bar menu can elevate the experience, keeping guests mingling, dancing, and toasting well into the night. From signature cocktails to crowd-pleasing classics, the right drinks create an atmosphere that’s unforgettable. Here’s your guide to crafting a wedding bar menu that’ll have your guests staying past midnight.
The bar is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a social hub. It’s where old friends reconnect, new ones bond, and everyone raises a glass to your new chapter. A great bar menu reflects your personality as a couple, caters to diverse tastes, and keeps the energy high. Whether you’re hosting an elegant black-tie affair or a rustic backyard bash, your drink selection sets the tone. Aim for variety, quality, and a touch of creativity to ensure everyone finds something they love.
Before diving into drink options, consider your guests. Are they wine enthusiasts, craft beer lovers, or cocktail aficionados? Do they prefer bold flavors or light, refreshing sips? Factor in dietary needs, like non-alcoholic options for designated drivers or guests who don’t drink. A good rule of thumb is to offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring inclusivity. For a wedding of 100 guests, plan for 60% preferring alcohol, 20% opting for non-alcoholic drinks, and 20% sticking to water or soda.
Nothing says “us” like a signature cocktail. These personalized drinks are a chance to tell your story—maybe it’s a drink inspired by your first date or a nod to your honeymoon destination. Name them something fun, like “The Honeymoon Glow” or “Forever Fizz,” and display cute signs at the bar to spark conversation.
For a summer wedding, try a Cucumber Mint Gimlet (gin, cucumber, mint, lime juice, and simple syrup)—crisp and refreshing, it’s a crowd-pleaser. For a winter affair, a Spiced Old Fashioned (bourbon, spiced syrup, bitters, and an orange twist) adds warmth. Offer two signatures—one light and one bold—to suit different palates. Pro tip: Pre-batch cocktails for faster service, but ensure bartenders garnish fresh for that wow factor.
While signature drinks add flair, classic cocktails are the backbone of your menu. They’re familiar, reliable, and appeal to a broad audience. Include these staples:
Offer variations, like a spicy margarita or a dirty martini, to keep things interesting. Ensure your bartenders are skilled at mixing these quickly to avoid long lines.
Not everyone wants a cocktail, so a solid beer and wine selection is essential. For wine, offer at least one red (like a Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon) and one white (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc). Add a rosé or sparkling wine, like Prosecco, for versatility—perfect for toasts or casual sipping.
For beer, provide a range: a light lager (think Corona or Stella Artois), a craft IPA for hop lovers, and a non-alcoholic option. Local brews add a personal touch and support small businesses. Aim for 2-3 beer options and 3-4 wines to keep choices manageable.
Non-alcoholic drinks aren’t an afterthought—they’re a must for inclusivity. Elevate your mocktails beyond soda and juice with creative options. A Virgin Paloma (grapefruit juice, lime, and soda with a salted rim) feels festive, while a Ginger Basil Spritzer (ginger syrup, basil, lemon, and sparkling water) is sophisticated and refreshing. Offer flavored lemonjointades, iced teas, or infused waters (cucumber-mint or berry-rosemary) for simple yet elegant choices. Label these clearly at the bar so guests know they’re alcohol-free.
To keep the party going past midnight, introduce a late-night drink menu. Think bold, fun, and energizing. A Espresso Martini (vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso) is perfect for a second wind. Or, offer a Midnight Mule (ginger beer, vodka, and blackberry liqueur) for a fruity twist. For colder nights, a hot toddy station with whiskey, honey, and lemon warms guests up. Pair these with late-night snacks like sliders or mini tacos to fuel the dance floor.
A great menu is only as good as its execution. Here’s how to ensure your bar runs smoothly:
Want to make your bar unforgettable? Add an interactive element. A DIY Mimosa Bar with various juices and fruits is a brunch-wedding hit. A Whiskey Tasting Station with small pours of different blends appeals to connoisseurs. For a playful vibe, include a Boozy Snow Cone Cart—adult-friendly and nostalgic. These extras create moments guests will talk about for years.
A wedding bar can be a big expense, but there are ways to save without sacrificing quality. Opt for mid-shelf liquors instead of top-shelf, and buy in bulk from wholesalers. Limit the menu to 2-3 cocktails, 2 beers, and 2 wines to streamline costs. If liquor is pricey, lean on wine and beer with one signature cocktail. Daytime weddings often see lighter drinking, so adjust quantities accordingly.
Your wedding bar is a chance to showcase your style and keep the celebration vibrant. By balancing signature cocktails, classic drinks, and inclusive options, you’ll create a menu that caters to everyone. Add personal touches, plan logistics carefully, and don’t skimp on the fun. With the right drinks flowing, your guests will be toasting, laughing, and dancing long after the clock strikes midnight. Cheers to a night no one will forget!
