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Moonshine Cocktails for Weddings
May 25 2017

Moonshine for Your Wedding

When it comes to signature cocktails for your wedding, many people overlook moonshine.

Moonshine?  Yes, darling. Moonshine.

Believe it or not, moonshine has evolved quite a bit over the years into a well-crafted, full bodied spirit that can embody the personality of any event.  And well, being here in the South, you just gotta love it. Here are a few of our favorites:

 

Manhattan Moonshine

Manhattan Moonshine has to be one of the most beautiful bottles out there.  If you’re a Great Gatsby, Roaring 20’s lover like us, you love this little throwback design.  If you’re a spirits lover (also like us), you’ll love this smooth taste and body.  Fun recipes like the citrusy Vote for Pedro or the spicy Prince Street Cider make Manhattan Moonshine the perfect addition to your wedding bar, not to mention your décor.

Midnight Moon

 

Midnight Moon is good stuff, with almost a vodka-like taste. It also works very well for warm-weather recipes. We’ve used it several times for outdoor wedding receptions and parties with huge success. Signature Drinks like Raspberry Moonshine Lemonade  and Blueberry Basilito  are refreshing and delicious!

Sugarlands

Sugarlands Shine  is the real deal, straight out of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  With some of the most amazing flavors like Apple, Cinnamon, Root Beer, Peach and so many more, there are endless possibilities for you to discover for your signature cocktail. For the OG Moonshine lovers, there are options available for you, too– the Silver Cloud Sour Mash and Unaged Rye are everything you are looking for. In fact, when we do our Moonshine & Cigar bars, many of our gents enjoy these!

Moonshine is very strong. It’s also an acquired taste.  You may want to consider offering a taste bar at your reception or select recipes made with moonshine during your cocktail hour.  Of course serving it in styled mason jars adds authenticity, but also serving it with fruit or sweet and spicy foods will be a hit.  If the idea of moonshine is a bit too much for you, talk to your caterer about incorporating it into a designer sauce or marinade for your hors d’oeuvres. Either way, ‘shine on!

jekyll island wedding planner convention center westin
Feb 01 2017

Our Top 10 His and Hers Signature Cocktails for Your Wedding

One the best parts of planning and designing our clients’ weddings is helping them test brainstorm their signature drink cocktails. This is always a fun part of planning because we can draw inspiration from literally anywhere– their first date, a favorite food or flavor, the location itself, even the event’s color palette! Most of our brides want something that is light and crisp if their wedding is during the warmer months and outdoors.  Our grooms don’t want anything that is too sweet or fruity, but want a different cocktail that all guests could enjoy.  His and Hers Signature Cocktails are so popular at weddings, as you get to know a little more about the personality of the couple and it is always a hit with guests.

If you need some help coming up with ideas, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of our favorite go-to cocktails for weddings.

Hers

Champagne Margaritas

Frenchy

signature cocktail drink for wedding bride groom champagne

Recipe via Epicurious

Strawberry Basil Sangria

 No Longer a Bridesmaid

signature cocktail drink for weddings brides groom

via Sutter Home (also known as Girl’s Night In…PS if you like this, you may also like The Blushing Bride with a peach/grenadine twist)

Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco

via Damn Delicious (LOVE them…definitely check out all of their recipes)

His

Devil Went Down to Georgia

Jamaica Bacon Old Fashioned

Blackberry Gin Lemonade

Iron Man

Frida’s Mule

 

 

Inspired?  Definitely do some quality control testing and find the perfect signature drink for you. Let us know which one you select!

Featured Image of Jekyll Island Convention Center Wedding :: Caitlin Amanda Lee

how much alcohol do i need for my wedding?
Apr 19 2016

Stocking Your Bar for Your Wedding

Many couples ask, “How much alcohol do I need for my wedding?”  If you are providing alcohol for your own wedding, this questions plagues and scares you not knowing how much alcohol to purchase.  If your venue provides your alcohol, this guide will help you gauge how much alcohol you may use.

These are some great starting points for your bar. We are estimating one drink per person, per hour. Dependent upon your preferences, or that of your guests, you may have to increase or decrease some bottles.  This is especially the case if you are having a signature drink that uses one or more of the spirits listed. For each bottle of spirits, you need three containers of mixers — club soda, tonic, juice, etc. Warm weather outdoor weddings call for more clear liquors (for vodka gimlets and gin and tonics).  Martinis are popular for cocktail parties and wine makes a perfect accompaniment to multi-course plated meals.

Select the size of your guest list and the type of bar you would like to provide

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Want a printable copy for your planning? Download the guide here.

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Briland Buck Moscow Mule Signature drink
Apr 13 2016

Signature Drink Ideas with Moscow Mule Twist

We are always looking for amazing concepts to share with our clients as options for their wedding signature drink.  We have done quite a few Peach Mules (a must when you’re doing weddings in Georgia!), but these new twists on the classic from some of Miami’s hottest restaurants have got us intrigued!

Wynwood Mule

Wynwood mule signature drink

The hipster version of the Moscow Mule – named after one of Miami’s trendiest neighborhoods, the smoky Wynwood Mule come on draft and is served in a customized tin cup featuring the restaurant’s entryway mural.  Try the original at KYU

  • Ketel One

  • Roasted Pineapple

  • Lime & ginger beer

 

Dragonfruit Mule

Moscow Mule Twist Dragonfruit signature drink

Stephen Starr’s The Continental features global cuisine and fabulous tiki-inspired cocktails. The Dragonfruit Mule’s bright fuchsia color works beautifully in the mid-century modern setting. Try the original at The Continental Miami.

  • Reyka

  • Dragonfruit purée

  • Fresh lime

  • Fever Tree ginger beer

Mekhong Mule

mekhong mule moscow signature drink ideas

A Thai-twist on a classic drink. Check out NaiYaRa’s one-of-a-kind Asian variation.  Try the original at NaiYaRa

  • ½ oz lime juice

  • ¾ oz lemongrass ginger syrup

  • 1 ½ oz Absolut Elyx

Build ingredients over crushed ice in a copper mug;  Topped off with sparkling sake.

Nazca Mule

Nazca Mule Moscow signature drink idea

A Peruvian twist on the mule crafted by skilled mixologist Joel Mesa. Try the original at Pisco y Nazca.

  • Pisco Cuatro Gallos

  • Free-Tree Ginger Beer

  • Fresh Lime Juice

Moscow Mule

Bulla Gastrobar’s mule is a fresh version on a classic. Try the original at Bulla Gastrobar.

  • Smirnoff vodka

  • Fever tree ginger beer

  • Fresh lime

  • Cardamom

  • Curant infused syrup

 

Briland Buck

Briland Buck Moscow Mule Signature drink

Into rum and over vodka? Or simply looking for a twist on a regular Moscow Mule? Opt for Rum Ambassador Isaac Grillo’s “Briland Buck” with an Asian twist at Repour or AFROHEAD Rum.

  • 1 oz Yuzu

  • 1 1/2 oz AFROHEAD Briland 07

  • 2 oz Fever Tree ginger beer

Instructions: Build all ingredients over crushed ice in a copper mug; garnish with a lemongrass straw.

Mexican Mule

Spanish Mule Moscow Mule signature drink ideas

Experience the Moscow Mule with an authentic taste of Mexico from Rocco’s Tacos.

  • Tito’s Handmade Vodka

  • Gosling’s Ginger Beer

  • Freshly-squeezed lime juice

 

Rhubarb Mule

Rhubarb Mule Moscow Mule Signature Drink Ideas

Komodo’s hand-crafted cocktail takes the Moscow Mule to the next level with its distinct flavor.

  • 50 Bleu Vodka

  • Lime

  • Rhubarb purée

  • Simple syrup

  • Fever Tree ginger beer

Lychee Mule
Lychee Mule Moscow Mule Signature Drink Ideas Vodka

Combine these ingredients for a unique Asian twist on the traditional Moscow Mule from Sushi Garage.

  • Tito’s Handmade Vodka

  • Lychee purée

  • Lime juice

  • SOHO lychee liqueur

  • Ginger beer

 

Canada’s Maple Mule

Canada's Maple Mule Moscow Signature Drink Idea Whiskey

  • 1 ½ part Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey

  • .5 part lime juice

  • .5 part maple syrup

  • Ginger beer (to top)

Method: Add all ingredients to a mixing glass and shake. Top with ginger beer.

Which is your favorite?  Tell us in the comments below!

accommodating guests with special needs
Apr 12 2016

Accommodating Your Guests with Special Needs

With all the details you have to worry about for your wedding day, one thing can go overlooked:  your guests and their needs.  Even thought it is your day, it is also a joint celebration.  You want to make sure that everyone you have invited can celebrate with you safely and comfortably.

Physical Needs

Guests who have issues with walking need to be taken into consideration for transport and seating.  This is especially true for grandparents, who may have trouble navigating outdoor weddings with difficult terrain (e.g., parks, beaches, etc.). For the reason, some grandparents elect to be seated at the start of the ceremony, avoiding inclusion in the processional. For those grandparents who do wish to walk down the aisle, allow them to stand at the rear of the seating so their walk is not too strenuous or difficult.

Guests who need the assistance of walkers or wheelchairs need extra space accommodations with seating. This is crucial to know before the day get started, as when your guests arrive reconfiguring the layout may not be an option. Preferred seating areas with adequate space and prime views can be created during setup.
For the reception, these guests should be seated close to areas where they  will need access (exits, restrooms, etc.) as well as a sight line to  key events (dining, cake cutting, dancing, etc.) Avoid putting guests with limited mobility near high traffic/loud areas (bars, DJ, etc.).  This will be important in figuring out your seating plan.

 

Dietary Needs

Another biggie! As someone who has recently had to drastically change their diet, knowing what I could eat at a wedding is a big deal.  Most guests with food allergies and dietary needs know what they can and cannot eat, however, it is still vital to relay anyone with food related needs to your caterer. This will give them the opportunity change the way they prepare or serve/display food. Having plenty of alternatives will ensure your guests with dietary needs aren’t forced to eat a plate full of one item.

You may also want to consider having a smaller dessert for those guests who cannot eat gluten. With wedding cake being the pièce de résistance at weddings, it’s a shame to have any guest miss out on a sweet ending.

 

Outdoor Weddings

If you are having an outdoor wedding in Spring, Summer or early Fall, be sure to communicate this to your guests via your wedding website or an enclosure in your invitation suite.  As someone who oversees countless outdoor weddings, I cannot tell you how utterly miserable some guests are when they come ill-prepared to fight pollen or bugs at an outdoor wedding.  Those with seasonal allergies or have worse than normal reactions/attractions to bugs, often find their remedies too late.  Bug spray (Off Wipes and No Natz are the best we’ve seen) will help greatly, citronella candles don’t put off enough of a guard, so look for sticks and tiki torches if possible.

 

Nursing Moms and Kids with Special Needs

One thing brides think of when they visit venues are to inquire about changing rooms. These rooms may also be a great place for a nursing mom to privately feed her baby without sitting uncomfortably in a restroom.    Weddings with their flashing lights, loud music and crowds can be overwhelming to those with autism.  This quiet area may also be a  great respite for children on the Autism spectrum to decompress.

 

Some of these considerations can have a great impact on your wedding as well as your guests’ ability to enjoy it.  Contemplating them before you select a venue or menu can be easier than trying to find quick fixes on the day of the wedding.

 

Photo :: Peacock Photo & Video

tequila cocktail signature drink recipes
Aug 07 2015

Our Top 7 Tequila Ideas for Your Signature Drink

tequila cocktail signature drink recipes

Frequent travel to Mexico has made us tequila lovers.  Well, some of us anyway. But there’s a story behind that and we promise to tell it to you some snowy night in front of  the fire.

A lot of our couples are afraid to incorporate tequila into their signature bar because of its distinct taste (or college memories), but we promise– these recipes will make a believer and lover out of the most discriminating tastes. Understanding that there are people that fall on both sides of the spectrum– those that love the taste of tequila and those… well, not so much, will help you find a happy medium between the two.

 

Dirty Work

dirty work tequila cocktail signature drink ideas
Dirty Work comes to us via one of our favorite mixologists in the game, Russell Davis.  Yes, that Russell Davis.  It’s a complex cocktail with a lot of layers and body– which is great for the connoisseur.  It includes Reposado Tequila, Lime, Pineapple Gomme syrup (fancy simple syrup), Cardamom tincture, and champagne. This mix is perfect for those warm summer weddings.

 

Salpicon de Mango (Mango Splash)

mango splash signature drink tequila
1.5 oz Patrón Citrónge Mango Liqueur (brand new from Patrón and it is loooovveely)
1 oz Patrón Silver Tequila
3/4 oz Lime Juice (or the juice of a medium-sized lime)
3/4 oz Simple Syrup
3/4 oz Orange Juice
Long Splash Chilled Club Soda\

Just looking at the ingredients has your mouth watering, amirite??? This beauty was created by the genius that is Esteban Ordonez and is pretty simple to achieve. Fill a large rocks glass or double old fashioned glass with ice. Combine all ingredients over the ice, adding the club soda in the end gently. Stir to mix all ingredients and garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig if desired. Again, perfect for those summer weddings– especially with those featuring seafood. Ceviche, anyone?

 

Carpe Dia

tequila signature drink ideas

Milagro Añejo  2 parts
Lime Juice 1 Part
Blackberry Syrup 0.75 Part
Sage Leaf 1 EA
Hibiscus Tea 1 Part
Ginger Beer 1 part
Garnish: Blackberries & Sage
Glass: Punch bowl

What’s great about this drink is that it can be made in batches, which makes for quick service at your bar. Since it is also pretty to look at, it will be quite the conversation piece. Build all ingredients except ginger beer in a punch bowl over a block of ice. Top with ginger beer right before stirring interminately.

 

Lil Mizz Sunshine

Lil-Mizz

6 oz Roca Patrón Reposado
2 oz Patrón Citrónge Mango
3 oz Orange/Chamomile Tea-Infused Sweet Vermouth (recipe below)
3 oz Lime Juice
10 White Sugar Cubes
6 oz Club Soda

Muddle sugar cubes with lime juice, Stir all ingredients (except for club soda) with ice. Strain over 1 large block of ice. Add club soda, and garnish with orange wheels and edible flowers.

 

Orange Chamomile infused sweet vermouth:

-5 tsp Orange Chamomile Tea Leaves
-750ml Dolin Sweet Vermouth

Infuse tea in vermouth for 2 hours. After 2 hours, strain out tea and refrigerate.

 

My bar crush, Rosie Ruiz of Cole’s in LA, really put her foot in this drink, as we say. It’s light, feminine and bubbly.  It’s also definitely one of those drinks that will take a bit of pre-event execution, so give yourself time, but it’s worth it.  Lil Mizz Sunshine would be happily at home at a bridal shower, bachelorette party or cocktail hour.

 

Lavender Paloma

lavendarpaloma

2 parts Milagro Silver
1 part Fresh grapefruit juice
.5 part Lavendar & Vanilla simple syrup
.5 part Fresh lime juice
3 parts Dry Lavender soda

Garnish: grapfruit peel & lavender & kosher salt

Put all ingredients in a tall glass and top with Lavender soda. **Or infuse lavender into the syrup and top with soda water for a delicious, full bodied cocktail.

This where Milagro shows up and shows off– the slow roasted,  100% blue agave tequila really adds to the flavors of this cocktail.  I know most wouldn’t consider tequila to be a “relaxed” spirit, however this cocktail blend is soft and ethereal. Paloma is perfect for those whose conceptions about tequila you would like to change.

 

Blonde Juan

blond-juan

1.5 parts Milagro Silver
.75 parts White Peach Syrup
.75 parts Fresh Lemon Juice
2 parts Blonde Beer
1 Lemon Wheel

Combine tequila, peach syrup and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker and add ice. Shake and strain over fresh ice in a tall Collins glass. Top with a Blonde Ale. Garnish with a lemon wheel. I love this because this is a wonderful blend of a little Georgia for you wedding with the white peach syrup.

 

Cool as a Cucumber Margarita

cool-cucumber-margarita

2 parts Milagro Silver
1 part Fresh Lime Juice
3 Cucumber Slices
1 Lime wheel
1 Cucumber Stick

Garnish: course ground sea salt and black peppercorn mix

 

Combine all ingredients in a blender without ice. Blend and pour over fresh ice into a rocks glass prepared with a half salted rim. Garnish with a cucumber spear and lime wheel (optional).

 

Which of these are your favorites? Do you have a favorite tequila based drink?  Let us know in the comments!


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We Likey: Low Country Luxe, Southern Inspired Fragrances

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The best thing about having a destination wedding in Saint Simons Island or Jekyll Island is sharing a bit of this beautiful area with your guests.  Many of our clients’ wedding guests come from large metropolises from all corners of the country, so taking a piece of the South home is a welcomed gift.

We’ve fallen in love with Low Country Luxe– a boutique operation that produces Southern inspired fragrances. Hand-poured, conceptualized and created in their Southern Fragrance House, Low Country Luxe’s Signature Collection features Gullah, High Cotton, Live Oak, Moonshine, Sea Grass and Spanish Moss. The two new fragrances are Moonshine and Live Oak. The Belle of the Ball Collection was added to the 2014 product line– with the inspiration for the collection being the candle developed exclusively for the 2013 White House First Lady’s Luncheon.

With candles in several sizes and reed diffusers, these are the perfect gifts for bridesmaids, mothers or any one who loves the South!  Learn more about Low Country Luxe at their website and see their inspiration on Instagram.


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Sep 18 2013

Fall Entertaining Ideas

Fall is my absolute, hands-down, favorite time of year.  Notwithstanding that my birthday month is snugly nestled into this time of year, It’s just something about the change in colors, temperature and scents that does something to me every time.  With Autumn quickly approaching, I anticipate there will be a get-together or two in our home, and I’d love to share some ideas with you.

Love this set up from Everyday Occasions using seasonal gourds and pumpkins.  Love the pumpkin candle holders (tutorial on how to make them are at the link)!

fall entertaining dinner decoration ideas

 

The use of lanterns to illuminate your space is awesome.  Bringing in a mix of different styles makes it less put-together and very relaxed.  You can use other festive items for decor as well– like nuts and berries. I know that sounds trés squirrel chic, but toss in a few well placed pillar candles, hurricanes and some height. You’ve got magic, baby.  Just see what Trésors Deluxe did:

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Fall Entertaining Dinner Party Ideas Decor

 

Now you know I’m all about a good drink, honey. Which one of your guests do you think could NOT fall in love with being welcomed by these cored and cut apples filled with aromatic apple cider, with a cinnamon and orange garnish?  If you can think of one, unfriend them now.  As the cooler weather creeps in, this would be a welcome and impressive treat. If your cider needs a little kick, add brandy and a smile.

 

Apple Cider Fall Entertaining dinner party ideas

 

Everyone goes nuts each year when Starbucks releases their Pumpkin Spice each year.  Here’s a great recipe from The Grant Life that you’re sure to love:

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And what about this Crisp Autumn Sangria? YES!

Fall Entertaining Autumn Sangria

 

And what about food?  Youc could opt for a little sweet and savory with these pears and gorgonzola bites.  Well, you know you also have to have a hearty stew or soup, right?  How about this Hearty Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash and Quinoa.

fall entertaining pear and gorgonzola bites

Fall Entertaining butternut squash soup stew

 

Got a sweet tooth? Pumpkin Cheesecakes or Apple Dumplings will be the cure of exactly what ails you.

 

Fall Entertaining Dessert Pumpkin Cheese Cake IdeasFall entertaining dessert party dinner

 

 


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We Likey: Cîroc Amaretto

 Ciroc Amaretto Drink Recipes

Diddy has done it again with his new Cîroc flavor, Amaretto.  This is the fifth flavor in the ultra premium vodka brand, joining Grape, Red Berry, Coconut and Peach flavors.  Amaretto picks up where the other flavors left off– bringing in an infused almond taste with a strong, sweet body, yet not too overpowering.   And of course, to celebrate the birth of the newest vodka juggernaut, Diddy paired up with Kris Jenner to create a new signature drink– The Glama (Glamour + Grandma= Glama…my grandkids are so calling me that in the very distant future!).

They sent over the recipe and I can already tell that is going to be a hit for fall weddings!

ciroc vodka signature drink cocktail

CÎROC AMARETTO GLAMA 

1.5 Cîroc Amaretto
1.5 Lemon Sour (lemon:simple)
Shake/Strain into rocks glass/tall Collins glass (depending on pic)
Top with 2oz Champagne

Garnish with lemon wedge/peel

Paris Pullen of Higher Calling also has a favorite that is going to, along with football season, make autumn worth living. It consists of an ounce and a half of Cîroc Amaertto and four ounces of apple juice.  Bring. It.On.