Cocktail Theme Ideas

Cocktail event and wedding themes are trending for weddings in Australia because they can be incorporated into traditional weddings or be a less formal reception option on their own. Whether you choose to have a “cocktail hour” before your reception dinner and dance or prefer a full cocktail-style wedding, this unique wedding option will make for a special and memorable wedding day.

Kick Start the Reception With Cocktail Hour

Cocktail hour is a popular feature of wedding receptions because it provides an interlude between the wedding ceremony and the reception. Not only does a cocktail hour give the wedding party time for pictures, but it also occupies your guests before you arrive at the reception venue. A cocktail hour usually includes an open bar and a variety of appetisers for guests to snack on.

Or Go For The Full Cocktail Reception

A cocktail reception is a wedding theme idea perfect for couples with a small guest list or those looking for more budget-friendly wedding options. A cocktail wedding theme is different from a traditional concept because it does not include a seated dinner. Instead, there is a selection of cocktail appetisers, desserts, and beverages, as well as a dance to follow. Cocktail receptions are often catered with service staff walking amongst guests to offer them food and beverage items. Music during cocktail receptions can be anything from soft jazz and bossa nova to EDM and reggae. Cocktail receptions can also be styled to match your overall wedding theme.

A Cocktail Theme Needs A Cocktail Bar

A cocktail bar is the main feature of a cocktail wedding theme. A cocktail bar is an open bar that serves a selection of beverages. Depending on the size of your wedding, a cocktail bar should have enough service staff that guests can quickly access the drinks and return to mingling and enjoying the reception. Cocktail bars often include a variety of red and white wines, spirits, liqueurs, non-alcoholic beverages, and mocktails.

With Maybe A Signature Cocktail Beverage?

A popular trend in Australia for cocktail weddings is to feature signature cocktails. These drinks could be an alcoholic beverage or a mocktail and reflect the wedding couple’s personality. A popular trend is to include the favourite cocktails of the bride and groom and the favourite drinks of the parents and members of the wedding party. Signature cocktails can also be designed to match the theme of your wedding, such as a raspberry lemonade for a rustic-style wedding or passionfruit mimosa for a Gatsby-themed wedding.

And Lets Not For Get The Cocktail Themed Decor

Cocktail weddings are unique in that they tend to be less formal than a traditional seated reception dinner and dance. This informality means that your table and chair requirements will be different. Cocktail receptions tend to feature several high tables spread throughout the venue with high bar stools—allowing guests the option to either sit or stand. A smaller selection of standard tables and chairs should be included for elderly guests, those with reduced mobility, or small children.

A cocktail wedding is a non-traditional option for your wedding day. This wedding style allows guests to mingle, encourages conversation, and is a great way to reduce the overall cost of your wedding reception.

Recent Posts

Find Suppliers
We have 1,000's of experienced suppliers ready to discuss your events or wedding.
Search Now
Plan Your Event
Don't miss anything for your event with our FREE Event Planner
Read More
Calculate Your Event
Track how much your spending with our FREE budget calculator.
Read More
Manage your Guests
Create a guestlist and manage RSVPs all in one place!
Read More
Win $1000
When you book or review suppliers on Host Events you enter a competition for your chance to win.
Read More