It’s a hot one out there, the sun is out, the days are longer, and wedding celebrations are in full swing. There truly is nothing quite like summertime in the PNW. Even though our summers can’t quite compare to the scolding heat of the south, we still need refreshments to help us beat our version of the summer heat. During these summer months, we love seeing our couples keep their guests cool with signature cocktail drinks. Many of our couples choose to feature drinks that resemble where they met, the location of their wedding ceremony or venue, or even named after their furry loved ones. So, grab a cold one while we round up some of our favorite signature summer cocktails for our Seattle couples!
Pass the Rose
For all of our Woodinville fans who love to sip on wine at Chateau Ste Michelle winery, this one's for you! This tart, but sweet fruity beverage is sure to delight your guests with its’ refreshing taste. This cocktail features Chateau Ste. Michele Rose, a top off of cherry lemonade or limeade, and is poured over ice garnished with a lemon or a lime. We could probably drink this rose ALL day.
French 75 with a Twist
French 75’s are classic. They are sophisticated and boy – are they refreshing. So, pop down to your favorite winery to grab a few bottles of your favorite sparkling wines in lieu of champagne. You’ll need your favorite local bottle or Gin, lavender simple syrup and a splash of lemon juice. Not only is this a fun and fancy signature drink but this can be offered at toasts to add a little spice to your reception!
Just a Peachy with an Old Fashioned
Who doesn’t love peaches? Peaches are one of the best summer fruits. They are sweet, but refreshing. Featuring an Old Fashioned as a signature drink is very common, but we suggest you add a summer twist to this classic drink. We love the peachy taste of Wild Root’s Peach Infused Vodka. Although this distillery is located in Portland, we'll claim it as an ode to the PNW and say it’s worth the quick visit down. Add equal parts vodka, bourbon, a dash of honey and bitters and you’ve got yourself a peachy summertime old fashioned that your guests will love. Serve without ice, with an orange garnish – or if you’re feeling fancy a peach slice.
Lounging at the Salish Lodge
One of our favorite venues in this area is the Salish Lodge. Although we are typically vendors rather than visitors, we do love their lounge. Their cocktails are superb and one of our favorites from their menu is their pineapple mule. I mean, who doesn’t love pineapple, mint, and ginger beer. This one is best served ice cold in a copper mug. Add your favorite tequila, pineapple juice, agave syrup, gingerbear, and lime. Garnish with a pineapple slice and lime and you’ve got yourself a refreshing and delicious summer cocktail – perfect for dancing the night away!
Give me all the Blackberries
If you’re in the Seattle area or Puget Sound, chances are you’ve either seen or had a sprawling blackberry bush in your yard. We love the sound of a ice cold margarita and we love the spin on the classic with the addition of blackberries. Fresh, PNW, blackberries are the perfect addition to a margarita. They help create a refreshing and balanced signature cocktail for your wedding reception. You will need to do a little prep work, or either purchase a pre-made syrup prior to your big day, but blackberry syrup is the heart of this cocktail. Once you have your syrup (just a little sugar, water, and berries), you’ll add fresh lime juice, a dash of sugar, your favorite blanco tequila and garnish with fresh blackberries.
We know your mouth is watering. Although we love seeing our couples come up with creative signature cocktails, we remind our couples (and readers) that anytime you are serving any type of alcohol at your wedding you need to keep a few things in mind. In these hot summer months, be sure that your guests have ample amounts of water to stay hydrated throughout the event. Alcohol without water can be a dangerous situation. In addition, ensure that your guests have opportunities to eat throughout the night, including cocktail hour appetizers, dinner, dessert or even a late night snack. If you’re serving signature drinks that include hard liquor, you will want to limit your specialty cocktails to his and hers, and ensure your bartenders are trained, certified, and keeping a close eye on all guests. It is okay to set limits on signature cocktails, or even just feature them during toasts or cocktail hours. Most importantly, ensure that your guests know of ways home if they have enjoyed your signature cocktails or other bar items. Whether having a sign or card at each table for ride shares, or pre-arranging ways home – it is so important that everyone not only has fun, but is safe in the process.
We can’t wait to see all of the summer refreshments and twist on our favorite signature drinks! Bottoms up!
(Drink Credits: Ste-Michelle, Wild Roots, Salish Lodge “The Lounge”)
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Seattle Wedding Planner with over 18 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.