Cocktail hour is when the couple is off taking photos and the guests are left to mingle. Done right, it’s one of the best parts of the day. Done wrong, people stand around checking their phones. Here’s how to make it fun.
Have food and drinks ready immediately
The first thing guests want after a ceremony is a drink and a snack. Have a signature cocktail, a good non-alcoholic option and passed appetizers ready the moment they arrive.
Live music sets the mood
An acoustic guitarist, a string duo or a jazz trio fills the air without making conversation hard. A good playlist works too.
Lawn games for outdoor venues
- Cornhole or bean bag toss.
- Giant Jenga.
- Bocce or croquet.
- Horseshoes for a ranch-style wedding.
Open the photo booth early
Guests are dressed their best and the light is often beautiful. Opening the photo booth during cocktail hour gives people something to do and fills the guest book before dinner.
Interactive stations
- A custom cocktail bar or a tasting of local beers.
- A “write advice for the couple” card table.
- A caricature artist or a live painter.
Make the space comfortable
Provide some seating for older guests, shade on sunny days and heaters if evenings get cool. Comfort keeps people mingling longer.
Keep it to about an hour
Anything much longer and guests start getting restless. Plan your portraits so the couple can join the party on time.