How to Host an Unforgettable Cocktail Hour Your Guests Will Rave About

Months and months—and hey, sometimes even years—go into planning a wedding. Couples want to create an unforgettable experience, not just for themselves, but for their guests too. One of the most overlooked opportunities to impress? That sweet little space of time between your ceremony and reception.

We call it cocktail hour—and while it’s short, it can set the tone for everything that follows. So how do you make it more than just a filler on your timeline? Let’s turn it into one of the highlights of your wedding day.

#01: Set the Scene with the Perfect Space

The vibe you create during cocktail hour can either build excitement or send guests straight to their phones. Whether you host outdoors, under a tent, or in an open-air garden, think about the energy you want to set.

Stylish lounge furniture, bistro tables, lush florals, and warm lighting can transform any corner into a scene that feels curated and intentional.

Pro tip: Consider using a space that’s separate from your reception to create that “unfolding” effect. It helps each part of your day feel distinct and keeps that wow factor building.

#02: Serve Signature Cocktails that Tell a Story

Sure, beer and wine are classics—but signature cocktails? That’s where the personality shines.

Choose drinks that reflect your story, heritage, or wedding location. Getting married in New Orleans? Serve a Sazerac. Beach wedding? Coconut mojitos, please. And don’t forget to name them—bonus points for clever references to pets, family members, or inside jokes.

Include a non-alcoholic mocktail option so every guest feels included, and create a custom cocktail board with names and descriptions so everyone knows what they’re sipping.

#03: Wow Them with Delicious Bites

Guests will be hungry after the ceremony, and hangry guests are not the vibe. Go beyond the cheese and crackers. Offer passed bites, unique food stations, or even interactive options like a build-your-own taco trio bar.

Mix up textures and flavors, and always have options for dietary restrictions. Think vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free selections so every guest feels considered.

#04: Elevate the Entertainment

Music matters. Whether it’s a string quartet, acoustic guitarist, or curated playlist by your DJ, it sets the mood. Want to really surprise your guests? Add something unexpected like:

• A strolling violinist

• A live painter

• A caricature artist

• A photobooth with custom props

This is where you can get creative and show your personality.

#05: Think About Guest Comfort

Chances are you’ll be off taking photos post-ceremony, so make sure your guests are taken care of in your absence.

• Provide seating (not just high tops) for older guests or anyone in heels
• Add rugs, throw pillows, and cozy lounge furniture
• If it's hot: offer fans, parasols, chilled towels, and iced water
• If it's cold: bring in heaters, cozy blankets, or even a hot cider station

Comfort is key—and your guests will thank you for it.

#06: Create Instagram-Worthy Moments

You know what they say—if it’s not on the ‘gram, did it even happen?

Incorporate photo-friendly backdrops and surprise design details that’ll have guests reaching for their phones:

• Neon signage

• Floral walls or hanging installations

• Personalized stir sticks and napkins

• A vintage mobile bar cart

• A themed corner that ties into your story

And of course, don’t forget your wedding hashtag!

#07: Keep the Flow Smooth and the Energy High

Timing is everything. Cocktail hour should usually last 45–60 minutes. Keep an eye on the vibe—if guests start losing energy or looking around aimlessly, it’s time to move them into the reception.

Make sure your planner or day-of coordinator is keeping everything flowing smoothly. From music cues to food delivery and glass clearing, this is where behind-the-scenes magic matters.

So Raise a Glass…

Cocktail hour may be one small part of your wedding day, but when done right, it becomes a defining moment. It’s where your guests feel welcomed, connected, and fully immersed in the celebration.

With a little planning, a touch of personality, and thoughtful design, your cocktail hour won’t just be a break in the schedule—it’ll be a moment.

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 20 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 Add Unexpected (but Totally You!) Details Into Your Wedding Design

Your wedding is one of the most meaningful days of your life. So, why not make it as uniquely you as possible? Sure, we know that specific wedding traditions have their place. But not every wedding has to follow the same formula. Our most memorable weddings to coordinate have been the ones where our couples let their personalities shine through the details. We encourage you to think beyond color schemes and seating charts. Think about those unexpected touches, those little built in elements that say, this is SO us. It’s these moments that make your wedding truly unforgettable. 

Here are our favorite ways to weave the unexpected (but totally you) details into your wedding design, without going over the top or losing sight of the big picture. 

START AT YOUR LOVE STORY.

Let YOUR LOVE story inspire the theme. Your relationship has a story. Every relationship has its origin story. Did you meet in college? Then, incorporate nods to your alma mater in your decor or signage. Did you have your first date at a pizza shop? Maybe set up a wood-fired slice station during your cocktail hour. Are you and your partner obsessed with hiking or road trips? Use maps, travel tags, or trail markers as your table numbers. Remember that designing a wedding doesn’t just mean it needs to be beautiful. It needs to also feel personal. You want your guests to walk in and say, “This is SO them.” And if they do that? You know you’ve nailed it. 

PERSONALIZE YOUR CEREMONY SPACE. 

The ceremony space is the first thing your guests will see upon arrival. It is also the heart, the basis of your wedding day. So why not make it feel uniquely yours? Instead of the standard arch or floral setup, consider: 

Think about….a circle of florals symbolizing eternity and unity. Or a custom-built backdrop painted or designed to reflect your favorite place or memory. You’ll want to include meaningful heirlooms, fabrics, and symbolic items from your culture or history. 

PLAY WITH THE UNEXPECTED 

We love the unexpected. Don’t feel limited by the typical blush, gold, white, and green wedding palettes. Think about the colors that speak to you – not just on Pinterest. Do you love moody tones? Then lean into deep emerald, plum, and rust. Are you and your partner all about bold and bright energy? Then try cobalt blue with hot pink and sunny orange. Or if you prefer neutrals, add texture and metallic accents to keep things exciting. Having an unexpected color palette doesn’t mean clashing. It means designing a palette that surprises and delights you while feeling cohesive. 

INFUSE YOUR PERSONALITY

You can infuse you and your partner's personality into your wedding attire. Wedding day fashion doesn’t have to be traditional. It just has to be true to who you are. We love fun and unexpected fashion ideas. Have you thought about a colored wedding dress? Who doesn’t love a little pop of blush, blue, or green? You can also add personality into your suit or dress with custom embroidery inside. Or are you an accessory fan? Add matching leather jackets, denim, or sneakers for your reception. Are you blending two different cultures? Then add cultural elements to give a nod to your families and traditions and think of fun ways to intertwine them. Encourage your wedding party to reflect their own style too. Mismatched outfits, bold accessories, and fun footwear can bring individuality to a group look. 

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR SIGNAGE

Wedding signage is the perfect place to sprinkle in your humor, preferences, heart, or a touch of sass. Think beyond the basic, unplugged ceremony, cocktail napkins, and seating charts. And get creative! Here are some of our favorite ideas: 

• “No Phones, Just Vibes” 

• Cocktail napkins with your dogs faces 

• A custom seating chart designed like a bookshelf or passport board 

• Or interactive seating charts that reveal a picture 

Signs can help set the tone for your style. Think about details that can be incorporated to celebrate who you and your partner are. 

RETHINK THE GUEST EXPERIENCE: 

Don’t forget about your guests. You want to think about how your guests will experience your wedding from the day of arrival, to the last dance. Find ways to delight them. Things guests love that are unexpected: 

• Live ceremony or reception music to get them ready to dance and groove

• Interactive food stations, such as dumpling folding, s’mores fire pit, or build your own taco bar

• Create a custom scent or essential oil blends that guests can associate with your wedding day

• Polaroid or video confession booths in lieu of the traditional guest book. 

You want your wedding day to not just be about watching your love story unfold, but you want your guests to feel a part of your wedding day. 

DESIGN A RECEPTION SPACE WITH A WOW FACTOR 

We love a good wow factor. Whether your reception space is in a ballroom, backyard, or barn, there are many ways to make your reception stand out. Use unexpected lighting, such as string lights, lanterns, neon signs or candles in creative ways. Talk to your planner or florist about ceiling installations. Think outside of the box for statement tablescapes. Bring on the velvet runners, mixed vintage glassware, or themed centerpieces built on things you and your partner love and enjoy. And our personal fav, set up cozy concerns with rugs, pillows, and vintage furniture. The goal isn’t just to decorate. It’s to create an atmosphere that reflects who you are. 

Whatever you decide, think about what makes you, you and lean into it. The most memorable weddings aren’t always the most extravagant, they are the most honest and vulnerable. When your wedding feels like a reflection of your spirit, people remember it for life. So, in a world full of cookie-cutter weddings, yours should feel like a breath of fresh air. By adding unexpected touches (but totally you) details into your wedding design, you’re not just planning a party, you’re telling a story. Let go of what you think weddings should look like or are expected. Create something real. Something bold. And something that could only belong to you and your partner. 

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma 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.

Why a First Look (with Your Partner or Parents!) Might Be Right for You

Weddings are full of unforgettable moments, walking down the aisle, saying "I do," and the first dance. But one that’s become increasingly popular (and emotional) is the first look. While some couples still hold to the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony, many are embracing the magic of a planned, private reveal before the vows.

But did you know that first looks aren’t just for you and your partner? They can also be shared with parents, grandparents, or even your bridal party. Whether you're a traditionalist or looking for an intimate moment before the celebration begins, here's why a first look might be the perfect choice for your big day.

Let’s start with the basics. What is a first look? A first look is a private (or semi-private) moment scheduled before the ceremony, where the couple sees each other for the first time in their wedding attire. Typically captured by a photographer or videographer, it’s a chance to connect, take in the moment, and calm the pre-ceremony jitters.

While traditionally done with your partner, first looks can also involve a parent, sibling, or anyone close to your heart. The goal? To slow down and share an emotional, meaningful experience in the midst of a very fast-paced day.

There are several reasons why to consider a first look with your partner. These are our top: 

#01: Calm the Nerves 

Weddings can feel like a whirlwind of activity — hair, makeup, dresses, suits, timelines, emotions. A first look allows you to pause and breathe. Seeing your partner before the ceremony can ease anxiety and bring a sense of calm that carries you through the rest of the day.

#02: A Truly Private Moment

The ceremony is beautiful, but it’s public. A first look gives you a chance to react freely — to cry, laugh, hug, kiss, talk — without hundreds of eyes watching. It’s a quiet, intimate experience shared just between the two of you.

#03: More Time Together 

Let’s be honest, wedding days fly by. Doing a first look adds meaningful minutes (or hours) to the time you get to spend together on your wedding day. And isn’t that what it’s all about?

#04: Better Photo Opportunities 

A first look opens the door to taking more photos earlier in the day. That means bridal party portraits, couple shots, and even some family pictures can be done before the ceremony — giving you more time to enjoy the cocktail hour and reception with your guests.

#05: Authentic Emotions 

Some worry that a first look will “take away” from the emotional moment of walking down the aisle. In reality, it often enhances it. Couples who’ve shared a first look say they felt more present and grounded during the ceremony because their nerves were already calmed and their connection reaffirmed.

Weddings are full of big emotions, not just for the couple, but for their families too. For many parents, seeing their child dressed for their wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. A first look with a parent (or grandparent) creates a beautiful opportunity to honor that relationship. First looks can be an emotional keepsake. On a personal level, I did a first look with my father after I was dressed. That was one of my favorite moments and I am so glad that it happened and we were able to capture it on film. Capturing the exact moment your mom sees you in your gown, or your dad holds back tears seeing you in a tux, creates some of the most heartfelt photos of the day. These images are timeless and full of genuine love. It is also an opportunity to say thank you to your parents. If your parents have played a significant role in your life or your wedding planning, a first look is a beautiful way to thank them. It shows you value their role in your journey and want them to be a special part of your milestone.

Don’t stop with your partner or parents! First looks with bridesmaids, groomsmen, or siblings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason!

Are you on the fence about breaking tradition? It’s totally okay to feel conflicted. The idea of seeing each other for the first time walking down the aisle is steeped in tradition and drama — and for some couples, it’s the moment they’ve dreamed about for years.

If you love the idea of keeping that surprise for the ceremony, you can still have private moments that don’t involve a full reveal. You can consider a first touch, where you are behind a door or curtain, where you can hold hands and pray or share private vows. You can write letters and exchange with each other as well. These are simple, one-to-one connections that you can create without altering the ceremony timeline. 

A first look, whether with your partner, parents, or bridal party  is about more than just the photos. It’s about creating space in your wedding day for connection, reflection, and real emotion. It allows you to honor the relationships that have shaped your life and to breathe in the beauty of the moment before the day picks up speed. If you're looking for a way to make your wedding day feel even more personal and unforgettable, a first look might just be the perfect way to start the celebration.

Remember, it’s your day. You can blend tradition and modernity in whatever way feels right for you.

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Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma 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.