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<\/p>\nThe latest wedding trend for 2023 is the cocktail hour and it’s one that we like A LOT here at Entertainment Nation. Traditional in American weddings, the cocktail hour is a fun and classy addition to your wedding and is a step up from your average drinks reception.<\/p>\n
If you’re searching for a way to make your wedding stand out from the crowd and give it a personal touch into the bargain then the cocktail hour could be for you. We’ve put together tips for creating your very own sophisticated celebration. Let’s find out how to do it in style.<\/p>\n
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Whether you’re wondering when to host your cocktail hour, what to serve or how to entertain your guests, we’ve got you covered!<\/p>\n
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A cocktail hour usually features a signature cocktail and other delicious tipples for your guests to enjoy, some kind of food and some light entertainment. The luxury glasses, colourful drinks and fun garnishes are sure to make everyone feel fancy. It’s a time for guests to mingle, relax and start having fun at your wedding. Note that you don’t have to stick rigidly to exactly 60 minutes – your cocktail hour can be as long or as short as it needs to be. It’s your day – plan it how you like!<\/p>\n
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Most couples choose to host their cocktail hour between their ceremony and their main reception. Others prefer to have their guests arrive early to enjoy a signature cocktail before the bridal party arrive. It’s totally up to you and what works best with the timings of your day. <\/p>\n
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Err, cocktails? This is where the fun starts! Many couples choose to serve a signature cocktail at their wedding. This can be one that you have invented yourselves to match the colours, theme and vibe of your wedding, or a tried and tested drink that you know will go down well with your guests. Choose a name for whichever drink you choose and serve it in fancy glasses with fresh garnishes like fruit, salt or sugar frostings, straws and crushed ice for an up-market feel. The type of drink you choose can help to set the tone for the rest of the day. Will you go dark and sophisticated or fresh and fruity for a laid back summery feel? Don’t forget to serve interesting non-alcoholic options for non-drinkers and children too!<\/p>\n
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If people have a drink in one hand, the food you serve should be easy to eat with the other, so finger food is the way to go. Think fancy canap\u00e9s, chips and dips, nuts, mini sliders, small sandwiches, tiny tapas, sushi, bruschetta and charcuterie. If you get married from around 2pm or later, the chances are your guests will already have had lunch before they arrive and will be peckish after your ceremony. Time your cocktail hour and wedding breakfast right and you won’t need to offer food in the evening. Everyone will be too full!<\/p>\n
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At the very least, you’ll need a playlist filled with relaxing music to create a cool vibe at your cocktail hour. But to really set your celebration apart, we’d recommend hiring a live musician. You can’t beat live music for an enhanced atmosphere as it’s generally more moving and engaging than a recording. It’s easy to create lasting memories with a live musician, hence why they are such a popular option for weddings!<\/p>\n
Here are our favourite cocktail hour entertainment ideas. Whatever vibe you’re looking to create, there’ll be something that will complement your cocktail hour perfectly.<\/p>\n
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