Planning a wedding and want to wet your guests' whistles in style? Look no further than the trend of DIY drink stations! These interactive beverage experiences are taking the wedding world by storm, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and refreshment. Read on to discover how you can raise a glass (or mix one!) to love with these creative ideas.

Why Choose DIY Drink Stations?

Guest Engagement: DIY stations encourage mingling and can serve as brilliant ice-breakers.
Personalisation: Guests can create drinks that tickle their fancy.
Cost-Effective: Can be easier on the wallet than a full open bar.
Unique Experience: Adds a fun, interactive element to your special day.

1. Mimosa Bar
Set up a station with chilled champagne or prosecco, along with various fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, peach). Add fresh fruits for garnish, and let guests mix their perfect mimosa.

Expanded idea: Elevate your mimosa bar by including a selection of fruit purees like strawberry or mango. Offer herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist. Don’t forget to include a sparkling non-alcoholic option like elderflower pressé for non-drinking guests.

See how to set up your own Mimosa Bar HERE

2. Pimm’s Station
A quintessentially British option! Provide jugs of Pimm's, lemonade, and a variety of traditional garnishes like cucumber, mint, orange, and strawberries. Include recipe cards for the classic mix, but encourage guests to create their own Pimm’s cocktail adventures.

See how to make Pimm’s cocktail jugs HERE

3. Gin and Tonic Bar
Capitalise on the gin renaissance with a dedicated G&T station. Offer a selection of premium gins, various tonics (including flavoured options), and an array of garnishes like citrus peels, berries, and herbs. Include cards explaining different gin styles and recommended pairings.

See how to make your own Gin Station HERE

4. Lemonade Stand
Perfect for summer weddings or non-alcoholic options. Offer different flavoured cordials (elderflower, lavender, strawberry) to mix with fresh lemonade. Don’t forget garnishes like lemon wheels and fresh herbs.

Expanded idea: Include a selection of flavoured ice cubes (e.g., mint, cucumber, or fruit-infused) to keep drinks cool without diluting them. Offer both still and sparkling lemonade options.

See how to make your own old-fashioned Lemonade HERE

5. Build-Your-Own Bellini Supply champagne flutes, prosecco, and a variety of fruit purees (peach, strawberry, raspberry). Include additional flavours like elderflower cordial or crème de cassis for guests to experiment with. Provide fresh fruit for garnishing.

See how to make your own Peach Bellini HERE

6. Hot Toddy Station
Ideal for autumn or winter weddings. Provide hot water, whisky, honey, lemon juice, and spices like cinnamon sticks and star anise. Include recipe cards for classic hot toddies, but encourage creativity. Offer a non-alcoholic version with herbal teas as the base.

See Hot Toddy ingredients HERE

Tips for Successful DIY Drink Stations

Clear Instructions: Provide easy-to-follow recipe cards or instructions at each station.
Proper Labelling: Clearly label all ingredients and options.
Aesthetics Matter: Use decorative dispensers, pretty garnish trays, and coordinating linens to match your wedding theme.
Consider Timing: Set up stations during the drinks reception or after dinner to keep guests engaged throughout the event.
Staff Assistance: Have a bartender or attendant available to assist guests and keep the station tidy. Glassware: Ensure you have enough appropriate glassware for each station.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Always include mocktail versions or entirely non-alcoholic stations for non-drinking guests.

Planning and Preparation

Estimate Quantities: Calculate ingredients based on guest count and event duration.
Prep in Advance: Cut fruits, chill beverages, and prepare mixes ahead of time.
Ice, Ice, Baby: Don’t forget to arrange for plenty of ice.
Safety First: For alcoholic stations, consider how you'll monitor consumption.

Conclusion

DIY wedding drink stations offer a perfect blend of entertainment, personalisation, and refreshment for your big day. By carefully planning and creatively executing these interactive beverage experiences, you'll create lasting memories for both you and your guests. Cheers to a celebration as unique as your love story!

See more articles on Wedding Beverages HERE