Festive Winter Wedding Cocktails

Are you looking for a way to keep your guests warm during your wedding ceremony and reception? One of our favorite ways to keep your guests warm is with the addition of festive winter wedding cocktails — or mocktails! They are a fun way to incorporate some of our favorite winter flavors and add a little bit of adventure to your big day. You can even work with your bartender to create signature cocktails to reflect you, your partner, and your overall wedding theme!  Whether you like fresh or spices, we’ve got a cocktail, or mocktail for you and your guests to try! So, grab a shaker and a glass, see what is in your pantry or fridge and let’s get some festive drinks rolling! 

Cranberry-Orange Whiskey Cocktail 
Nothing screams fall or the holidays like Cranberry. And we’re not talking about the cranberries from a can, we’re talking about fresh cranberries with a hint of orange. Citrus is truly featured, paired with a darker whiskey. Garnished with a fresh orange peel and cranberries make it a festive affair. Consider adding a fresh herb, like thyme to add in some greenery and you have a festive cocktail that will delight your guests. Recipe: Equal parts cranberry and orange juice, whiskey – your choice of course! Add a hint of triple sec, lemon juice and simple syrup for sweetness. Top it off with ginger beer cranberries, an orange peel and thyme for a garnish. To swap it for a mocktail – skip the whiskey and add more non-alcoholic ginger beer. 

Bourbon and Spiced Pear Cocktail 

Often people consider fruit to be a summer fruit, when in fact fruit can be a staple of a winter wedding. From decor, to food and drink, adding fresh fruit can brighten any festivity! Select your favorite bourbon, a hint of orange, and pear juice with all spice and cinnamon to create a warm drink. Pour over ice and serve in a short, cocktail tumbler. Recipe: Prepare pear puree, or use an all natural pear juice. Combine juice or puree with a dash of honey, lemon juice, and seltzer or tonic weather. Add your preferred bourbon, ginger beer (non-alcoholic or alcoholic) with allspice and cinnamon. Pour over ice, and serve in a stemless wine glass or short cocktail tumbler. 

Hot Cocoa, with a Twist 
We love a good hot cocoa bar. This appeals to guests of all ages, and you can even add in a little 21+ over twist. You’ll want to create a hot cocoa bar, but add elevated touches, such as fresh mint leaves and peppermint sticks. If you’re not a peppermint fan, you can create a Mexican Hot Chocolate, or forget the mint overall.  Recipe: For the hot cocoa powder, opt for a rich hot cocoa, such as dark chocolate or a gourmet milk chocolate. The boozy twist, is a dash of creme de menthe and a mint leaf for a garnish. Ensure that milk is offered, in lieu of water, to create depth and add warmth to the hot cocoa. 

Peppermint Moscow Mule 
Moscow mules are a modern day classic. They are a great option for a refreshing summer drink, but can also be festive during the winter months! Create a classic Moscow mule, but add a candy cane, or peppermint stick and you’ll have a festive winter drink! These can either be served as a mocktail – just leave out the liquor! It is a great option, that is sure to be refreshing on your guests’ palette. Recipe: Select your favorite vodka as a base and add in peppermint schnapps. Top off your cocktail with ginger beer, fresh lime juice, and garnish with candy canes and mints! Don’t forget to serve in a festive copper mug. 

Classic French 75 
I don’t know what it is about the holidays, but when I think of the holidays, I think of a French 75. Maybe it is the bubbly, or that I always snag one before seeing the Nutcracker, but it is classic, traditional, and sure to lighten your festivities on your wedding day! The best part, is this is a very simple cocktail and perfect for a celebration of love.  Recipe: Select your favorite gin, add champagne or prosecco, and fresh squeezed lemon juice. Add simple syrup for added sweetness and shake over ice. Pour in a vintage or classic stemmed glass and garnish with a lemon peel. 

We can’t forget about our gents and girlies that enjoy good mocktails. All of the drinks can be swapped for non-alcoholic liquor or you can leave out the alcohol all together. As you craft your festive drinks, think about what will appeal to your seasonal palette, remain on budget, and won’t take too much time to make. Select drinks that are reasonable and keep the ingredient list on a low. Once you select your cocktails, or mocktails, create festive signage and don’t be afraid to get creative with the names. Ensure that your drink station or bar is easily accessible for all guests and that drinks are clearly listed. If you do choose to serve signature drinks, with alcohol, ensure that there is a limit or your bartenders do not overserve. Yes, we want guests to have a festive time, but we also care about your guests' safety. Drink responsibly and ensure that your guests have safe travel to and from the reception. 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

How to Plan a Successful Rehearsal

Are you on the fence about holding a wedding rehearsal? We get it, gathering your wedding party the night before the big day may seem like an old tradition, or something that isn’t necessarily needed anymore. Wedding rehearsals are a good opportunity to practice your ceremony, enjoy time with loved ones, and ensure that everyone knows their role for the wedding day. We highly suggest that you do some sort of wedding rehearsal, whether it’s a quick pep talk and practice in the hotel lobby, or a full blown rehearsal and dinner at the venue. Set aside time and first, rehearse. 

#01: Where to Hold it? 
Some venues will give couples the opportunity to hold the wedding rehearsal at the venue. If you want to plan in advance to have a wedding rehearsal, talk to the on-site coordinator or select a package that includes the venue the day before. But, depending on booking and when the wedding falls, there may not be an opportunity to practice at the venue. If you are able to rehearse at the wedding venue, try and practice at the same time your ceremony will be the next day. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, you’ll be able to determine any kinks that mother nature may send your way – such as lighting, heat, or shadows from the tree line. You will be able to make adjustments as needed to ensure that your photographer can get the best shots and you and your guests will be comfortable throughout.                                               

#02: What to Practice? 
First, you’ll want to check with your wedding planner or coordinator and see if they will be able to coordinate your rehearsal. Chances are, they have created a ceremony timeline and have all the details worked out. You will want to practice whatever your plan is for the ceremony. You’ll want at least an hour blocked out to practice. We suggest you ask your officiant to attend to run through the ceremony. You will want to practice the ceremony, from the processional and recessional at least twice. We definitely don’t want any bridesmaids or groomsmen lost on where to stand during the ceremony. Be sure to use cues on when the next couple should walk out, walk in, and answer any lingering questions from the wedding party. As long as you practice the following, you should be ready for your wedding ceremony! 

• Processional

• Who is walking with who

• What are the music or visual cues on when to walk (ex. Walk when the couple before hits the middle of the aisle etc.) 

• Where to stand when you reach the altar

• If you have an outdoor wedding, and it’s allowed, think about using golf tees to keep your place! 

• How to face your body during the ceremony 

• Who will hold the bride’s flowers, be in charge of fixing her veil or dress

• Ceremony: 

• While you don’t need to practice the speaking parts, it’s best to run through the ceremony to know who is doing what 

• When to hold hands 

• When to say “I do” 

• Don’t forget to practice the first KISS!

• Recessional

• The couple will always exit first!

• Who will walk out next and in what order? 

• Practice waiting for the cue to walk 

• How you will walk out 

• Have your officiant leave last and make any announcements needed 

#03: It’s a Wrap!
Once you and your wedding party have practiced walking in, where to stand, and walking out, discuss where and with whom your marriage license will be signed. Typically, this is done directly after the ceremony. Ensure that the individuals who will serve as your witness know where to go immediately after the ceremony.You definitely don’t want to be searching for people post ceremony to sign. After the rehearsal, tradition is that there is a rehearsal dinner to follow. This allows guests to linger, gather, and celebrate (without celebrating too much) the night before. 

#04: The Dinner
There are many different levels to the rehearsal dinner. The rehearsal dinner typical directly follows the practice time. Ensure that guests know where to meet, and travel time is accounted for. Select a space that can accommodate your guests and don’t be afraid to create a casual atmosphere! We’ve had clients hold rehearsal dinners at fun, outdoor patio spaces, or even in the comforts of your own home. Do not feel the need to invite ALL the guests, you only need to invite your wedding party and then you can invite any additional guests from there. Keep your dinner on a time frame, you don’t want to be partying way into the night (you’ve got a wedding in the morning). Use the dinner to welcome your guests for the weekend, meet with family and friends, and mingle and chat.

The wedding night and rehearsal should be meaningful but quick. You don’t want to spend your night practicing, especially with all of the buzz and excitement for tomorrow (rest is important!). So, here is our suggested timeline, adjust the hours as needed, but this is the time frame we suggest to plan your perfect rehearsal dinner. 

5:00 Wedding Party and Important Members Arrive 
5:20 Line up to practice
5:30 Begin Wedding Rehearsal
6:30 Wedding Rehearsal Ends       
6:30 - 7:00 Travel to Dinner Site
7:00: Dinner with Wedding Party and Important Members
9:00: Hugs and Goodbye! 
10:00: GET SLEEP!     

We love attending wedding rehearsals and helping our couples prepare for the big day. If you are in need of support with planning and executing your wedding rehearsal, or even day of, please reach out to a member of our team today! 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.

Planning the Perfect Proposal!

Wedding etiquette is often unspoken about in the modern ages. It can be uncomfortable for some, and often many avoid talking about the subject. Traditionally, or many years ago, etiquette was that the bride’s family pays for the wedding and the groom’s family pays for the wedding rehearsal. But, folks – times have changed and what we know as etiquette or historically done has gone out the window. In today’s society, weddings are truly a reflection of who the couple are and what their values are. Etiquette varies from couple to couple. So, today – we’re here to discuss what is the modern wedding etiquette in 2024-2025. Is there still a “desired” way to throw a wedding? 

#01: Wedding Attire: 
What is wedding attire like these days? Are bridal party members still in matching dresses that always seem to be outdated? There is no right or wrong with what attire works for you. Many brides opt for dresses that are out of the box, or reflect their personality. As long as your attire is appropriate for your wedding event and fits your aesthetic, we vote to wear it. As for your wedding party, select pieces that are timeless and tie into your wedding theme and vision. Many couples opt for their wedding party to select their own pieces, but with a specified color. We love this idea because it allows your wedding party to select pieces that are comfortable to them and pick something they will hopefully invest in and wear again. 

#02: Provide Food and Drink 
This is still a time ole’ tradition that is still proper etiquette. You need to ensure that your guests are fed and have great options for food and drink. When guests attend a wedding, yes they are looking forward to celebrating the happy couple, but they also want to leave with happy bellies. You want to ensure that you’ve selected a caterer, menu, and drinks that will leave your guests feeling satisfied and that there will be plenty to go around. You never, ever want to run out of food, or leave your guests hungry for more. Ensure your guests have plenty of food and drinks, including non-alcoholic, too! 

#03: Who Pays for What? 
We are all for shared costs. Whether you and your partner sit down and create your wedding budget with just the two of you, or you ask your families to share the overall cost of your wedding… in today’s modern era, there is no reason for the bride’s family to take on the cost of the wedding. Create a safe opportunity for your families to get together and have a candid conversation to create the budget and determine what everyone is comfortable chipping in for. Or, if you and your partner want to cover the bulk of the cost, but maybe the bride’s family covers attire or decor. Don’t expect your wedding to be paid by anyone, unless it has already been predetermined. 

#04: Just Say No to Obligation 
Weddings can create a lot of feelings of obligation and big emotions. But, the bottom line is you don’t need to do anything out of obligation or tradition. You don’t need to invite everyone from the office, or your parents’ friend of a friend. Do not invite people that you don’t love, don’t share or celebrate your love, or will cause unwarranted stress. You can also curate your timeline to fit your wants and needs. If you don’t want to toss the bouquet, don’t do it. If you want to cut your first dance in half, then do it! This year, let’s create the trend of saying no to things that don’t suit you and creating healthy boundaries. You do not have to invite people or create moments during your wedding day out of obligation. 

#05: Leave the Drama Behind 
It is okay to have conversations with your family and friends to leave the drama at the door. Weddings or any large family events can bring drama. Set boundaries with your friends and families and create expectations for behaviors. It is so important to explain what you need to feel and be supported. You don’t want to create any unwanted stress and don’t want your loved ones bringing stress to your wedding day. Keep it simple and be up front with drama and limit any stress that may head your way! 

#06: Send Thank You Notes
This is a time old trend that needs to stay. Many people may think that thank you cards are a thing of the past, but in fact this is a wedding etiquette tradition that needs to stay. Please send a thank you card to your guests. Thank them for their time and acknowledge the gifts that they have given you. This not only acknowledges your guests, but it shows your appreciation for their time, support, and gifts. You never want your guests to have a sour taste in their mouths post wedding and you always want others to be appreciated. 

#07: Consider your Guests 
Weddings are truly a celebration for all. Yes, they are celebrations of the couple, but you bring everyone together to celebrate love. Your guests are the foundation of your wedding event. Everything you decide should not only align to your wants but also keep your guests comfortable. You never want your guests to feel not welcomed or uncomfortable. Keep your guests in mind as you plan and be considerate of their needs. Consider what your guests are doing during the wedding and ensure they are comfortable throughout. 

#08: Be Present 
Be present on your wedding day. You don’t need to be the queen or king of the party or feel the need to be everywhere at once, but be present for your guests and yourselves. Take time to enjoy your wedding, let the vendors and wedding coordinators focus on executing all the details. Focus on enjoying your newlywed bliss and enjoying your family and friends. Let your energy soar and enjoy your wedding day. 

There are so many traditions in the wedding industry and for some reason as soon as couples get engaged all these traditions flood their mind. Everyone seems to have an opinion on what is right and what is wrong, but at the end of the day, your wedding is for you and your partner. The wedding etiquette we’ve discussed isn’t for everyone, but they are our suggestion for modern couples in this modern time. Whatever you and your fiance choose, or implement, as long as you make the decision together – that is what matters. Happy planning all! 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.