The sun is finally shining, and we’re dreaming of that wonderful post-ceremony moment when you and your guests mingle and chat over welcome drinks.
Sometimes it’s the small touches that count, so let’s take a look at some delicious canapé ideas, and beautifully presented drinks to get the party started.
The Romantic Cocktail
Drinks first, and a wedding just wouldn’t be a wedding without something sparkly. While that might be Champagne, it doesn’t have to be, and we love a fizzy cocktail. This treat is one part blackberry syrup and one part sparkling wine – it’s pink, pretty and perfect for weddings!
Image Courtesy of Jacquelyn Clark
Classic Elegance
Simple and stylish, this delight is made using Aquavit, sherry and elderflower liqueur. Adorn the glass with some elderflower to complete the look.
Image Courtesy of Honestly YUM
Super Stylish
For the serious cocktail lover, how about a Lychee French? It’s a heady combination of gin, lychee syrup, lemon juice, rose water and Prosecco adorned with lychees. Needless to say these need only be served in modest-sized glasses!
Anyone for Pimms?
Pimms and summer weddings go together like Champagne and strawberries. From a practical point of view, Pimms is also a great choice as it’s easy to serve, and it’s a long drink which means it lasts! Be sure to feature plenty of fresh mint leaves, cucumber, orange and strawberries, and serve with a straw.
Image Courtesy of Sam Gibson Photography
Pleased as Punch
As an alcohol-free alternative to Pimms, get creative with cordials or lemonade and various fruits. This lemonade punch is pretty as a picture.
Image Courtesy of Festival Brides
Image Courtesy of Sortra
Cool as a…
It’s always important to offer plenty of water. Add extra refreshment by including slices of lemon, lime or cucumber and keeping it beautifully chilled.
Image Courtesy of MODWedding
Ice Ice Baby
Keep your party informal, and your beers chilled! Fill wheelbarrows or other unusual drink stations with ice as an alternative to plastic buckets.
Image Courtesy of Shelby Leigh Photography
A Floral Feature
Keeping bottles cool is essential – no body wants a warm glass of white wine or fizz. We particularly love these fresh petal ice cubes.
Image Courtesy of Beck Rocchi Photography
Get Creative
Alternatively, wine coolers made from petal or fruit-filled ice look fabulous and should last the duration of your drinks reception. If you’re placing them on tables, be sure to sit them in trays that can catch the water as it gradually melts.
Image Courtesy of Sugar and Charm
Your Wine Bar
Keep bottles of wine chilled in an ice-filled trough, perfect for a marquee wedding.
Image Courtesy of Tumblr
The Fashionable Canapé
Get on trend by offering drinks that accompany your canapés. Here, miniature beers are served with hot sandwiches.
Image Courtesy of Olivia Leigh Photographie
Dream Partners
Often the simplest, bite size canapés are the best. Feta and watermelon make a winning summer combination.
Image Courtesy of Christelle is Flabber Gasting
The Classic Canapé
Tomato and mozzarella combine to make another fuss free canapé. Serve on a basil leaf for a burst of flavour and colour.
Image Courtesy of Oh My Omiyage
Looking Good
Canapés need to look as good as they taste, so exceptional presentation is essential. Be inspired by these simple scallops, so beautifully served on a bed of grass!
Image Courtesy of Inside Weddings
Summer’s Here!
Of course, sweet is as important as savoury, and nothing says ‘summer’ like a mini pavlova.
Image Courtesy of Petrina Tinslay
Popular Popsicles
Creative ice lollies fall in to the category of drink, cocktail and canapé. These are made with sparkling wine, but of course you could create a non-alcoholic alternative.
Image Courtesy of Barefoot Wine
Keeping up with Tradition
And finally… don’t forget the strawberries. We love these miniature desserts…
Image Courtesy of Weddingomania
… or keep it simple with the classic strawberries and cream.
Image Courtesy of Daisy’s World
