The array of creative cocktails at weddings adds the excitement to the festivities. With more and more Indian weddings becoming destination weddings and different themes & styles being adopted, alcoholic beverages have become an integral part of the menu. It is important for couples to note that incorrect management of alcohol at weddings can create two major problems - it can be an expensive affair and an overflow of alcohol or the wrong mix of beverages can make guests sick.

Having said that we do not expect couples to control how much and what guests consume but perhaps choose alcohol appropriately for the occasion to minimize negative consequences. Before we guide you on the kind of beverages that can be made available to guests at weddings, it is best to check how to cater for those beverages.

1. If you think you have a high number of guests who drink alcoholic or have a huge guest list to begin with, it is best to check the possibility of buying your own alcohol and paying a corkage charge at the venue. Some hotels will allow this and some won't. The advantage of this is that alcohol can be purchased at a cheaper rate than being offered at the venue and you can ensure the selection includes everything you require. The drawback to this is ensuring bottles are opened as and when needed and a correct tab is being kept of consumption.
2. Another option widely available these days is to pay a fixed charge which is inclusive of beverages. This works well if your beverage list features the standard selection of wines, beer and spirits.

Once you've chosen a method that works best for you or is available to you, you can make a selection of beverages. We recommend choosing beverages based on the kind of event it is. Here's a roundup of some beverages that can be offered:

Wines/ Champagnes It is best to opt for this if you are having a sit down dinner style reception or wedding function. The style of consumption is slow and steady therefore sipping on it while enjoying an elaborate meal is the best option.

Spirits & Cocktails These are a good option for a regular reception or wedding function where guests are mingling with other guests. It is best suited to events that don't have any dancing involved; with a pre-reception area or a bar facility before guests move to a buffet style dinner.

Shots & Shooters A complete favorite with the younger generation these days, this is a popular choice for a youngster's party or sangeet. The dancing, music and excitement in the air create an ambiance where guests feel the need to consume something that is more hard-hitting.

There is no hard and fast rule to choosing alcohol for weddings but do note it is important to budget it right and to ensure your source is providing you alcohol that is of good quality and has been stored correctly. Overlooking these aspects generally creates an unwanted scenario which you definitely want to avoid. Thus count it right, source it right and serve it right and we ensure you, your guests will turn your wedding in to one crazy party.