A Mixologist's Guide to Event Beverages

A Mixologist’s Guide to Event Beverages

March 15, 2024

Drinks and entertainment are two of the most crucial aspects of planning your event – keep your guests happy and entertained and you have yourself a memorable one. This is especially true of your destination wedding – you are all on vacation, there’s usually no designated driver, and you have the time and space to recover the following day.

While the dress, decor and location are all important factors – they seem to get most of the attention when it comes to blogs and posts, so we took a break with the Co-founder of Sirtaki and our resident mixologist, Yonathan, to to spill the tea (or should we say, pour the tequila?) on what’s buzzing in the beverage world!

So, Yonathan, what’s the cocktail chatter this season?

Yonathan: Tequila is having its moment in the spotlight in Greece: we have seen an increase in people asking for a diverse, more exclusive range of tequilas, as we have done with fine whiskey in the past.

Let’s be clear though, Gin is still King when it comes to mass appeal.The vibe now? Keep it simple and classy: top-shelf gin, crisp tonic, a highball glass, and a cheeky slice of lemon. That’s it!

It also looks as though champagne and cocktail towers are here to stay – and why not, they add an element of theatrics and glamour to your event and create a great photo opportunity, alongside the traditional, cake cutting and first dance pics.

Hit us with the latest mocktail and cocktail craze?

Yonathan: For sure, we are in the era of alcohol free drinks and events. People will no longer settle for a soft drink or fruit juice and want a drink which doesn’t compromise on the experience. In the events industry we are meeting these expectations through creativity, glassware and garnishes.

After regaining popularity over the last few years a cocktail hour or reception is pretty much the industry standard now. As these are at the beginning of the event, you want to offer something light and refreshing to your guests.

Sirtaki wisdom:

Sirtaki wisdom - Aperol spritz and kir royal are still a firm favourite thanks to their colourful appearance and refreshingly fruity nature. Try adding some blueberries to your KR and watch them dance with the bubbles.

How do you mix tradition with sips at these fabulous destination weddings?

Yonathan: Destination means discovery. People want that local zest. Those choosing to host a destination event are doing so to embrace the local culture or to make their own traditions. Serving ouzo or tsipouro is like giving your guests a passport to Greece, especially if seafood is on the menu.

Don’t miss introducing guests to Mastic liqueur, a lesser-known Greek gem with a unique flavour: made in a similar way ple to masyrup by tapping the tree to release the resin.

Sirtaki wisdom:

Unlike the aniseed flavour of ouzo, most people won’t have ever tasted something like Mastica before - perfect for destination events looking to offer a novel Greek experience. You can serve this neat from an ice cold bottle or craft a signature cocktail: our Mastic Martini is a huge crowd pleaser

What’s everyone expecting from their event’s drink menu?

Yonathan: Every couple and budget is different but for me a killer drink menu needs to tick all the boxes: crowd-pleaser, Instagram-worthy, and vibe-setter, all while keeping the wallet happy. Local brews, wines and spirits? They’re your best pals for nailing that authentic, flavorful kick without breaking the bank.

For those wanting to push the boat out you can get as quirky or exclusive as you like – we’ve had couples request anything from all singing and dancing cocktail bars with a unique list of signature drinks to a request for 150e bottles of tequila for every table. We’re here to guide you but ultimately we’re here to bring your vision to life.

And how do drinks dial up the fun at weddings and events?

Yonathan: In my opinion Music and alcohol are the absolute pillars of a good event, but as Master of Mischief I would say that! If when you start out planning and discussing your budget allocation and priorities, your guests having an incredible time is high on your list then these should be non-negotiables: You should spend as much of your budget as you can to have the best of them both.

Give us your go-to for a sizzling summer wedding?

Yonathan: When it comes to summer drinks, especially a Greek Summer, you want something that is the pinnacle of refreshment! Something like a Summer Sangria packed with fruit – give us an edible garnish, no more dried fruit or flowers, we want a snack!

Another of our favourites is a mojito mainly because the star of the show – mint is a cooling herb that also helps boost digestion and energize the body. Also perfect if you’ve been indulging in lashing of tzatziki from the buffet!

Sirtaki wisdom:

Play mixologist and swap in some Greek spirit into your mojito. Trust us; it’s a game-changer. Our Mediterranean Mojito adds a splash of ouzo to the mix!

Your all-time favourite wedding serve?

Yonathan: If I’m really honest . . . something containing an energy drink! Due to the summer heat in Greece weddings tend to start after 7pm and last long into the early hours – an energy drink can give you a boost and keep you on your feet, dancing.

Sirtaki wisdom:

The upcoming Red Bull 2024 summertime flavour - Caruba Elderflower - is something I'm looking forward to mixing. Caruba - also known as banana passion fruit, blended with notes of elderflower, melon and pineapple. I can just taste this mixed with a nice rum

Ever whip up something unforgettable for an event?

Yonathan: A drink that has stayed with me because I’ve never tasted anything like it since, was one I was asked to create for a self confessed chocoholic – I went with something a little less obvious: Irish cream, vodka and cranberry syrup topped off with crystallised cranberries – like a dessert in a glass!

How about adding a dash of Greece to a wedding?

Yonathan: We’ve touched on it slightly already but what I will say is that over the course of planning an event, especially a wedding, we really get to know the couple, their personalities and their vision for their day. I’ve recommended anything from the bride and groom visiting each table to do a shot of ouzo with their guests, to signature cocktails and whole Greek drinks menus featuring Greek wines, mixers, spirits and beers.

Sirtaki wisdom:

A really delicious and refreshing cocktail which is super simple to make is ouzo, sprite, lemon juice and zest and sugar - My Big Fat Greek Lemonade (not suitable for children!)

ANY PARTING WISDOM?

As a planning service we have to think of everything so here’s a super tip! Make sure you ask your venue to continue replenishing water on the tables throughout the evening and have a water station at the bar for your guests to help themselves. It’s super important for you and your guests to stay hydrated (especially in the summer) – you’ll thank us the next day!

All that’s left to say is – YAMAS!!

Need help bringing your dreams to life – contact us today!