BOTTOMS UP
Planning a cheers-worthy wedding bar.
WRITTEN BY HEIDI BETHEL
PHOTOS BY GAGEWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
Here comes the bride, all dressed in white … wait, wait, wait, hold the procession. While that magical moment may be on approach, there are a slew of details and decisions that go into planning your Big Day. When it comes to bar offerings, a resounding theme exists: Keep it simple.
“There is such a thing as too much booze,” says Tom Adams, founder and distiller at Seven Troughs Distilling in Sparks, Nev. “Alcohol is meant to be a celebration, so offer meaningful spirits, not everything under the sun.”
Steve Sanchez, certified sommelier and cocktail creator for Café at Adele’s in Carson City, Nev., echoes that sentiment. He urges folks not to get too elaborate. He suggests purchasing locally made wines, beers, and spirits and using high-quality mixers, for a truncated list of beverages. Signature cocktails abound; many happy couples have embraced this special touch that brings personality to the reception and less of a hit to the event budget.
“Serve drinks that you would drink as a couple,” Sanchez says. “If there’s a special story to go along with it, even better, like if you’ve taken a special trip and want to serve wine from that region.”
Hire a pro
Having trouble deciding on those creative concoctions and the perfect wine pairing? Adams suggests hiring a U.S. Bartenders’ Guild-certified hospitality professional.
“[This person] will work as a hired gun and make planning for that day a whole lot better,” Adams says. “They also will take the spirits, beer, and wine to the next level. It’s more fitting to have a real bartender behind the bar, rather than Uncle Johnny squirting spirits. Your guests will enjoy themselves, and your wallet will be better off because your bartender doesn’t waste money pouring a full glass of gin. And you’ll have a great time!”
The personal touch
Looking for an alcohol-infused, one-of-a-kind way to enhance your special day? Here are a few trending tips for doing just that:
Ask your local brewer or distiller to affix a customized private label on mini bottles of wine, beer, and spirits for your wedding favors.
Make your own concoctions (Think limoncello — yum!), mixers, and garnishes for that special touch.
At least a year before the big event, plan a bridal party get-together at Seven Troughs Distilling in Sparks, Nev., or another distillery, where you can make a small cask barrel of whiskey that is aged and then served at your wedding.
