Get your guests mixing and mingling – the wedding cocktail hour

Your wedding guest list is a blend of family and friends. But they may not all know one another. Your wedding cocktail hour provides the perfect opportunity to bring everyone together to start the celebration. With the help of Millennium Center’s event specialists, you’ll have a stylish wedding cocktail hour that’s a reflection of who you are as a couple – from signature drinks to favorite foods.

Why should you have a cocktail hour at your wedding?

Think of your wedding cocktail hour as a “bridge” between your ceremony and reception. It gets your guests in the mood for what’s to come. This time provides your guests the chance to reconnect, take photos, and just admire the venue. Your cocktail hour is also the ideal opportunity for you and your wedding party to take those first look and group photos.

Can you join the cocktail hour? Of course! Especially if you take your first looks and formals before the ceremony. But before joining the festivities, enjoy a few minutes and savor your first newlywed moments in a quiet place. 

Define your cocktail hour space and style

Select a space that’s separate from the reception location and provides your guests some visual interest. While most of them will stand during cocktail time, it’s important to provide guest comfort with some seating. Think beyond chairs against a wall and set up a lounge area for cocktail conversation. And scatter high top tables around the space so guests have a place to set their drinks and gather.

Integrate your color scheme and some of your decor elements into your space. Cocktail hour is the perfect time for signing your guest book. Video montages also work well during this hour. They’re a great icebreaker for guests who may not know each other. Cocktail hour is also the place for a selfie wall. Some of your guests may not have seen each other in a long time, so why not provide a background for their photo memories.

Music will also give cocktail time a lyrical vibe, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Have your DJ play background music that complements conversation, not overpowers it. And this is a good time to introduce a little live music. Think strolling violinist, harpist, pianist, or even a trio.

Make a statement with a signature drink

The signature cocktail has become a standard for weddings. It reflects your tastes (literally), style, and personalities. Your signature cocktail should be inspired by what makes you unique as a couple. Do a little mixology at home to come up with your favorite and give it a name – from the place of your first date to your pet’s name.

In addition to your signature drink (or drinks), most couples also opt for a selection of beer, wine, and liquors. But you’re under no obligation to serve all three. It’s fine to hold the wine for dinner service. And as a gracious host, you’ll also want non-alcoholic beverages (think signature mocktail) as well as ice water to keep your guests hydrated. 

Bar tip: To avoid “rush hour” at the bar, consider having a server pass the signature cocktail and set up non-alcoholic beverages at stations for self-serve convenience. 

Give your guests some tasty treats

You’ll want to give your guests something to nibble on while they enjoy their cocktails and conversation. Food should be easy to carry and eat. Think “amuse bouche” – French for amusement for the mouth. This is the time to be creative with your offerings. Build your menu around the foods you love. Take advantage of seasonal ingredients. And showcase cuisine from your cultures and family heritage.

Passed hors d’oeuvres always add a touch of elegance. Provide a variety to accommodate your guests’ palates and plan for about two bites per guest for each selection. Interactive stations are a great way to present a signature nibble, like Millennium’s Shrimp & Grits. You can even use your food as edible decor. A charcuterie board makes a stunning display for guest grazing. Even an assortment of cheeses and crackers can become a presentation. And don’t forget a beautiful assortment of veggies, fruits, and dips. Now you’re serving something for everyone!

Wedding cocktail hour at Millennium Center

When you host your wedding at our Winston-Salem wedding venue, you’ll have a beautiful transition space with a flexible layout. Our Grand Lobby houses mailboxes dating back to the days when Millennium Center served as a Post Office. They’re always great conversation starters.

The Maya Bar is named after Maya Angelou, the revered American poet. She has a special place in Winston-Salem history with her lifetime professorship at Wake Forest. Her poems grace the walls of the bar. And your cocktail space also includes Millennium’s Art Gallery, again offering guests points of visual interest and topics for conversation.

As part of your wedding package, your cocktail hour space is set with high top tables, guest tables, linens, and barstools. There’s even a grand piano, tuned and ready to entertain your guests. You’ll work with our Wedding Specialist to design a delectable menu and determine the staffing you need to keep the party rolling. And we’ll put together the right bar package and provide experienced bartenders who will professionally serve your guests. And that’s before you even have your incredible reception dinner!

To learn more about our all-inclusive venue rentals and 5-star catering, let’s talk. Schedule your tour and consultation today.