Short answer
Serve a balanced range: sparkling wine or fizz for the toast, wine and beer for the meal, a few spirits with mixers, plus water, soft drinks and a non-alcoholic option. Match drinks to the time of day.
Start with a welcome drink as guests arrive. A glass of sparkling wine, a light beer, or a non-alcoholic fruit spritz are all good choices. During the meal, offer both red and white wine, and make sure there is a non-alcoholic option like sparkling water or a fruit juice. Beer is popular with many guests, so keep a few bottles or cans chilled. For the speeches, have a toast drink ready, usually the same sparkling wine from the welcome, or a quieter option like elderflower pressé.
In the evening, set up a bar with spirits, mixers and more beer. Include a range of soft drinks, tonic water, and a good choice of non-alcoholic beers or mocktails. If your reception is outdoors, think about keeping drinks cool and having a water station. If it is indoors, hot drinks like tea and coffee are a nice touch after the meal. Always ask your venue about their drinks packages and what they can provide. You can also let guests order at the bar for the evening, which keeps costs down and gives them choice.
People also search
- what drinks to serve at a wedding reception
- wedding drinks menu
- wedding drinks list
- wedding drink ideas
From us
Website packages · Wedding print
Wedding websiteWedding Website£499 one-offYour full wedding website with RSVP for every event, meal choices and a private link for each household.See Wedding Website →
Wedding printA2 sign boardsfrom £37.18A2 boards for the order of the day, the bar menu, an unplugged ceremony sign or directions.Design it online →
Wedding printTable numbers and place cardsfrom £14.52Folded tent cards for table numbers, table names, place cards and drink menus.Design it online →
Wedding printFolded menus and programmesfrom £48.78Creased and folded cards for menus, a simple order of service or the plan for the day.Design it online → Answers from couples and guests
No answers from readers yet. Been through this yourself? Share what worked for you.
Add your answer
Related questions
- What is the cheapest food to serve at a wedding reception?
- What is a wedding drinks sign and what should it say?
- What are some wedding drink station ideas?
- What is a wedding drinks package and how do you choose one?
- What is a wedding drinks reception and how long should it last?
- How much non-alcoholic drinks should you serve at a wedding?
From other topics



Wedding invitations
Save the date cards
Order of service booklets
Table plan boards
Welcome signs
Thank-you cards