Create a unique experience for your guests with a special beverage.

by Margaret McNamara

Who doesn’t enjoy a wedding with a fabulous open bar? Take your drink menu up a notch by adding a signature cocktail. It’s a trendy way to add a personal touch and impress your guests.

“Most couples do choose a signature cocktail. They add some fun and whimsy, they can just be delicious, or they can really personalize the wedding if everyone knows the couple’s favorite cocktail,” says Nicole Bailey from Nicole Elevee Events in Rehoboth.

“If you have a great, refreshing signature cocktail please make sure that you have enough to last throughout the evening,” suggests Bailey. “You don’t want guests disappointed when they go to the bar after dinner and there aren’t any left.”

Having a bit of brain freeze? Check out these five refreshing ideas.

Crush On You
An orange or grapefruit crush is the perfect cocktail for a summer wedding. Make it your own by using your favorite flavor of vodka.

Mint To Be
Looking for something light and refreshing? Try a summer gin, made with cucumber, mint and a splash of Prosecco.

Cranberry Kiss
Take your traditional vodka cranberry, but substitute plain vodka for vanilla. It’s the perfect cocktail for a white, wintery wedding.

Something Blue
Hard, blueberry lemonade is a delicious way to spike a tradition. To make, fill a large glass with ice and fill two-thirds of the way with fresh-squeezed lemonade. Top off the remaining one-third with lemon-flavored vodka, blueberry puree and fresh blueberries.

Marry Me Margarita
You can never go wrong with tequila. Start with the classic margarita recipe: Rim a rocks glass with salt and lime juice and then fill the glass with ice. Fill with one-third tequila, one-third triple sec or fresh orange juice and one-third fresh lime juice. Add your twist, either a fruit that is in season or jalapenos for some spice.