Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Is Coming To A Wedding Near You!

All Photos courtesy of Jack Rudy Cocktail Company

Jack Rudy Cocktail Company makes an 'Artisan Tonic' in Charleston, South Carolina.  A small batch cocktail syrup is an easy way to add uniqueness to the drinks at your wedding, adding a perfect 'signature' touch.  Perfect for the southern wedding, or one looking for a touch of the tropics.

What's in Jack Rudy Artisan Tonic? It's made from quinine, lemon grass and orange peel in the Company's own secret recipe which gives you a Gin and Tonic with a complexity and layers of flavor.  Add just the right amount of seltzer and you've brought the phrase 'signature drink' to a new level.  You can also make margaritas, daiquiris, gimlets and caipirinhas with a taste twist to startle your guests who never knew you were such an expert mixologist!

The Jack Rudy Tequila Sunset graces this menu (photo courtesy of Jack Rudy Cocktail Co.)

Don't forget, shake their signature apothecary jar with it's letterpress label that will remind you of the historical origins of the first Gin and Tonic and the great tropical cures of the 20th century before you use it.

Visit Jack Rudy's  web site for some great drink recipes that you can enjoy taste testing before the wedding.

Texas Style! Drinkable Centerpiece

It certainly looks like the guests at this wedding enjoyed their drinks - Republic Tequila with it's bottles in the shape of the state of Texas is perfect for the couple planning a Texan wedding or even just a Texan style wedding.  Some shot glasses and limes lining the bar--yee ha! A very good time will be had by all! 

Feeling a little less wild? A little more ladylike? Serve some margaritas or provide some individual drinks.  Some brides use the bottle surrounded by shot glasses and salt as centerpieces.  Hmm... I've heard of eatable flowers but... drinkable centerpieces... photo credit.

Would You Drink Ale From A Pink Bottle?

Weddings are feminine (think pink?) and sweet (think doughnuts) so why shouldn't this ale be the perfect drink for a groom's big day? (why just the groom's? because no bride would touch the stuff!)Rogue's Bacon Maple Ale, a bold fusion of doughnuts, bacon, maple syrup and alcohol is with us, for better or worse, and is creeping into taps and it's signature pink bottles now.  We can all give thanks it's not pink in color once it's poured!

OK, I know, it looks like Pepto Bismal, and it sounds like something you'd need Pepto for after you drank it.  But you have to give the folks at Rogue credit, it is DIFFERENT!  I'll be the first to admit I have not tasted this Bacon Maple Ale.  I will also say it certainly is...uh...unique? Yes I think that's the word I'm looking for.  Of course I haven't tasted the doughnuts it's based on either.  I'm a jelly doughnut girl.

 

But it seems Rogue Ales got together with the folks at Voodoo Doughnut to create this unusual tasting ale. What's in it? 2 of the ingredients are bacon and maple syrup from Voodoo's signature doughnuts.  I'm obviously not set out to be a creative brewer, the combo would never have occurred to me.

A 750ml bottle runs you $13 plus shipping so I doubt you'd want to serve it at your wedding brunch, but hey, sure would be fun to see the groom's eyes widen when you offered him this to drink while he's getting ready for his wedding.  Should make a great photo! 

Some states won't allow you to order ale (or any other alcohol) by mail, so check before you order. 

Sparkler Cocktail

Amy Wisniewski from Chow.com's newsletter just sent me an email with the most gorgeous idea for a signature drink for your wedding.  (Also great for wedding showers!) It's a citrus and ginger cocktail that is made from Domaine de Canton (a ginger flavored liqueur found in specialty liquor stores (see previous online link) called a Kumquat Sparkler. 

The recipe below is for only 1 drink, so you'll need to extrapolate it out to fit your numbers.  It's called a Kumquat Sparkler, but don't let the unusual fruit put you off--it's too pretty NOT to make.  And I promise you, you'll enjoy the kumquats. 


Kumquat Cocktail
Ingredients for 1 drink

INGREDIENTS5 ounces dry sparkling wine
1/2 ounce ginger liqueur
2 kumquats, halved crosswise

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine the sparkling wine and ginger liqueur in a champagne flute. Squeeze the kumquat halves into the glass and then drop them into the drink to serve. 

How easy could it be?  Cut up your fruit ahead of time and pour.  No fancy shaking or stirring that would hold up the bartender, these are literally cut, measure and add the sparkling wine.  So simple, but so so good! 

Take a chance.  Try it this weekend.  That's the best part of having a signature drink, trying all the possible, probable combinations ahead of time!

Taste Testing Tequilas? Like Giving To Charity? Let Mad Mex Willow Grove Help!

Planning to serve margaritas at your wedding as a signature drink but can't quite decide which tequila to use?  Which is your favorite brand? What flavor? Traditional or frozen style? With a lime boat floater or without?  It's time to head to Mad Mex Willow Grove to taste test tequilas!

Just a few of the tequilas available at Mad Mex (All Photos courtesy of Facebook)

Help solve the problem by spending multiple date nights at Mad Mex and taste testing all their options. From the Big Azz Margaritas (22 oz. tall!) to their two smaller versions, you'll find Mad Mex Willow Grove has an impressive selection of tequilas. They offer traditional or frozen and fruity margarita options.  Lucky for suburban Philly brides and grooms they no longer have to drive into University City in Philadelphia to partake of Mad Mex's margaritas. Willow Grove now has their own Mad Mex.  Even if you're not getting married it's worth heading to Mad Mex to enjoy their extensive tequila bar. 

Photo from Mad Mex's Facebook Page

On December 20th they're having a 'Tequila Tuesday.'  What's 'Tequila Tuesday?'  On 'Tequila Tuesdays' Mad Mex in Willow Grove PA participates in "Agave to Charity." Celebrating the Benefits of Great Tequila.  How does it work?

• Come in on 'Tequila Tuesday.'
• Order your favorite cocktail, margarita or sampling with Tequila from that night's featured distiller (The tequila on December 20th is Casa Noble) and
• 100% of the drink price will be donated to that week's beneficiary. 

Photo from Mad Mex's Facebook Page

On Tuesday, December 20, 2011 the National Tay-Sachs and Allied Diseases Association of the Delaware Valley will reap the rewards of your taste testing at Mad Mex Willow Grove.  So if you thought you needed a good excuse to spend some time bellying up to the bar and sampling some  of the great tequilas at Mad Mex, head over on the 20th. After all, it's for charity...a perfect reason.

Photo from Facebook

Previous beneficiaries of "Agave to Charity" at Mad Mex Willow Grove were the Philadelphia Paper and Cordage Association, Abington Memorial Hospital, The Nurse Development Fund, the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, Upper Moreland Educational Foundation, and the South Eastern PA Red Cross.

                                                   Photo from Mad Mex's Facebook page       

Can't make it out to Mad Mex Willow Grove on a the 20th but would like to support a local charity? If you'd like to support Philabundance, Mad Mex Willow Grove has a dining invitation for you and up to 23 of your closest friends or co-workers.  Schedule your event at Mad Mex Willow Grove any Monday or Wednesday and enjoy some of their great Cal-Mex  food and drinks and 100% of your tab goes directly to Philabundance. 

Photo courtesy of Philabundance Web Page

You can schedule benefits on any Monday or Wednesdays for lunch at 11:30 AM or dinner at 5:30 PM.  Groups are currently being accepted through February 28, 2012. 


For the complete details call Colleen at 267-495-5000 on any weekday.  Remember 100% of your tab goes directly to Philabundance, and all checks will be written directly to them. Reservations are required and they can only schedule one group per day, so call now to schedule your group.  Please don't forget to tip your server generously, 20% is suggested.  (On our visit our server, Rod did a great job--shout out to you Rob!)


While you are there spend some time looking at that big mural in the bar area.  See who you think those faces resemble... we had a great time picking out who we thought they looked like.  I'm sure Mad Mex didn't have anyone in mind when the mural was painted, but if you're waiting for food or drink, or just want to have a good time while you're there, see who you think each of them are! Post below and I'll let you know if we match.


Get together with everyone in your wedding party or just a group of friends from work and have a great time--relaxing, kicking back, and enjoying some classic Tex-Mex at Mad Mex Willow Grove PA.  They try to put everyone together at tables of four or six in the same area to support the party atmosphere. 


If you know someone who is scheduling a group get together this holiday (or even afterwards) and who loves Max Mex's great food and drink, be sure to forward a copy of this post to them--maybe they'll invite you to come too!  Or if you're planning on getting together with friends and would like to help support Philabundance get on board.

If you need a great excuse (um, I mean REASON) to try a few (or more) of Mad Mex's 40+ 100% agave tequilas this is it!  Come on, it is for a GREAT cause! Get a few designated drivers and come on out and enjoy! After all that holiday shopping at nearby Willow Grove Park Mall, you know you need a break!  Just think, over 40 tequilas to taste, share with friends and enjoy after a hard day shopping.


**The author was provided with food and drink for two at Mad Mex Willow Grove free of charge, but any opinion offered is the author's own and not influenced by Mad Mex's generosity.

A Lavender Collins & Villeroy and Boch Barware

Villeroy and Boch Lowland Whiskey Glass

A few weeks ago I went to a Cyber Monday party held by PSMM (Philly Social Media Moms) at Dave and Busters in Plymouth Meeting. Dave and Buster's in Plymouth Meeting has some great brand new event rooms perfect for your company Christmas party or pre-wedding shower or rehersal dinner. 

While we were there not only were we wowed by toys from some fabulous toy makers, (and took home some great swag!) but we had the opportunity to sample some some great wine from Paradox Vineyards (PDX) and my favorite, some gift ware from Villeroy and Boch. (If you're planning on picking up a few of these for your home or as gifts for the holidays, be sure to check their web site for special discount codes.)  Also in attendance were the representatives from Cradles to Crayons, a great children's charity that helps children stay safe and warm during the winter. 

While most of you are probably familiar with Villeroy and Boch's china lines, they are that and so much more. I have to admit I totally fell in love with some barware they had on display. So if you're looking for a wedding gift (or even a Christmas gift), head to their web page where you can purchase their Lowland whiskey glasses (shown above) or their Canadian Whiskey Tumblers shown in the signature drink by 12 Bottle Bar shown below.

Not only has Villeroy and Boch designed this great glass and barware they've also provided some great recipes for drinks that are a 'cut above.' 

Tired of the same old Whiskey Collins?  Why not try this Lavender Collins?  Not only is it easy on the eyes, it's smooth going down.  The 12 Bottle Bar web site has this Collins shown in Villeroy and Boch barware--pretty and delicious looking! Love the garnish!

Lavender Collins

2 oz Leopold’s Gin
1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
1.5 oz Lavender Syrup (recipe below)
3 oz Club Soda (+/- to taste)
Stir gin, lemon juice and syrup together in a Collins glass.
Add 2-3 ice cubes and top with Club Soda.
Garnish with a lavender stalk and some petals, if you wish.

Lavender Syrup
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Filtered Water
1.5 Tbsp Lavender Buds
The hot infusion method provided by 12BottleBar.com is recommended.

Coming Soon! Stay Tuned! Twilight at The Bar

Look for upcoming posts on signature drinks for your Twilight Theme wedding! Visit WDW (Wedding Day Weekly)Blogging For Brides (formerly The Wedding Queen) for photos of Bella's gown and information on it's inspiration as well as information on Wildflower Linens newest line of Twilight accessories for your home. Bottle labels for fruit drinks of your choice can be found at DIY Wedding Planning, just print and add to the bottles.

Bottle Your Own Infused Water

Planning an outdoor wedding for next summer? Looking for a cool way for your guests to quench their thirst that's non-alcoholic? How about some infused water?  This idea is courtesy of the great entertaining site Cupcakes and Cashmere, head over to see the rest of the fabulous ideas for entertaining your guests.

This infused water is easy to make--just add some lemon, mint, orange or other flavor to the water, let it steep, and bottle it!

Bottles can be obtained at Sur La Table.  Then make some simple tags and voila! Gourmet infused water to put on each table at your wedding.  Guests can choose their favorite flavor and enjoy a cool drink.

Have Your Ever Tried An Italian Margarita?

If you love Margaritas but want an Italian slant on one, try Italian Margaritas.  You can find the recipe on  Mrs. Cummings web site.  As you can see from her photo below she is "The Cocktail Queen!"

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Cummings Rx (link below)

As a lover of all things amaretto I just couldn't resist sharing her idea for a twist on the traditional margarita. 

Head over to Mrs. Cummings Rx, her web site, where you'll find the recipe for Italian Margarita's as well as other creative options for signature drinks for your wedding.  Try her Muchacha Rosado or Mango Mojito.  As you explore her site you're sure to find a use for every bottle in your home bar! (And some you don't have but will run out to purchase just to try out her recipes!)

Van Gogh Vodka Styles Signature Drinks

Van Gogh Vodkas help brides design and style signature drinks for their wedding that taste and look good.  Their varieties of flavors, colors and uses all make Van Gogh Vodkas the go to product for wedding signature drinks.

Shaken News Daily reported that as if Van Gogh Vodka wasn't popular enough before, it's new spokesperson, Cooking Chanel celebrity chef Nadia G is sure to up the brand visability. Nadia will create signature cocktails and provide her unique knowledge of flavors and food to the “world of the young, dynamic women who comprise the brand’s key consumer constituency.” Van Gogh Vodka’s flavor portfolio currently features 19 different flavors, and new extensions Rich Dark Chocolate and Cool Peach are expected to launch this fall.

Looking for something blue? Try Van Gogh's Summer Breeze.

Van Gogh Summer Breeze

2 oz Van Gogh Acai-Blueberry
1 oz Agave Nectar
1 oz Sauvignon Blanc
Blueberries for Garnish

How about the rich taste of chocolate truffles? Van Gogh's Dutch Chocolate Vodka is a masterpiece!


Triple Chocolate Truffle

2 oz Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate

½ oz Chocolate Liqueur

½ Creme de Cacao

½ Cream

Or are you a bride who loves pink and is looking for a tropical drink? How about making a Cool Breeze using Van Gogh's Coconut Vodka.

Cool Breeze

2½ Van Gogh Coconut

½ oz orange juice

½ oz cranberry juice

For more dink recipes visit Van Gogh's web site and click on their various flavors of vodka for recipes for the most dedicated consumer.

Fragoli Liqueuer--Handpicked Wild Strawberry Liqueur Perfect for Weddings

Fall in love with Fragoli, a liqueur made with handpicked wild strawberries! Perfect for a signature drink for a wedding or wedding shower or to serve as an option at the bar at your wedding.  Fragoli offers ideas for drinks made from their liqueur on their web page and on their facebook page.  Love those pieces of strawberries floating in my drink!

Butter Beer? You Put WHAT in Your Beer?

Having a autumn or Thanksgiving wedding? Butter Beer from 15 Romolo is a perfect signature cocktail! What? You've never had Butter Beer? Give it a try this weekend. Serve Butter Beer as your signature drink at your wedding.  It's pumpkin butter gives it a flavor that's perfect for fall weddings. 

Butter Beer is a combination of Black Bottle Scotch, pumpkin butter, hot water, Port Brewing Company's Santa's Little Helper Imperial Stout foam (mix stout with ½ tsp. fruit pectin in whipped-cream canister). Combine Black Bottle scotch and pumpkin butter in a heated mug. Then add hot water, swirl, and top with foam. Recipe and photo courtesy of Daily Candy and 15 Romolo.

News: Champagne Demand Rises & So Do Prices

As the demand for champagne around the world increases, prices in the United States are set to move up, and brides from coast to coast scramble to either increase their budget or find a substitute to serve at their wedding.

 Increased demand for the bubbly from Brazil, Russia, India and China has put global Champagne supply under pressure right as the holiday season approaches.  Champagne brands are on now on allocation with in the run-up to the crucial holiday selling season, with hikes in prices scheduled for 2012.  

Emerging markets are showing increases, "with a 111% growth in the Mideast-Africa region since 2001, along with 150% growth in Asia-Pacific and a whopping 430% advance in Russia."

Jim Clerkin, president and CEO of Moët Hennessy USA, told Shanken News Daily that the "Champagne region is limited to 34,000 hectares and production of 320 million bottles,” he added. “It simply can’t go beyond that capacity." On allocation are brands "including the popular Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, Veuve Clicquot Rosé, Moët & Chandon Imperial Rosé and Nectar Imperial Rosé. Now that Champagne reserves are topped out, I will have more allocation issues next year.”

Clerkin cited sharp rises in the production costs of Champagne, grape costs rising by 97% in U.S. dollar terms from 2001 to 2010; vineyard land more than doubling in price during that period. Due to these factors Moët Hennessy will be increasing prices in its Champagne portfolio during the first half of 2012.

While other markets have allowed prices to rise consistently, the U.S. has not, so 2012 will see a significant rise in prices with the biggest hike on Moët & Chandon Imperial, which will see a double-digit percentage rise. Other brands in that portfolio will see single-digit percentage increases.  The precise level of hikes in prices is expected to be announced by Moët Hennessy USA in about four weeks.

Clerkin said "for the first time in 50 years, Champagne sales have rebounded strongly without overall economic recovery.” Luxuries have rebounded before other sectors.

So if you're a bride, consider pre-ordering at 2011 prices or substituting another sparkling wine for Champagne. 

Information from:
The Wine Spectator
Shanken News Daily

A Juice Bar at Your Wedding?

Having an afternoon wedding? Brunch wedding? Or just an alcohol-free wedding? Pretty juices lined up on a juice bar are both decorative and delicious.  Go sleek or a little more ornate, good, fresh juice is the key.

Choose from a variety of juices or smoothies, and don't forget, the presentation is almost as important as taste! A table full of assorted fruits vegetables and special add-ons will give your guests with their own personal Jamba Juice. Serve Orange juice, cranberry juice, grapefruit (either pink or regular), carrot juice, veggie combos, pineapple juice and more!

Then add some pretty straws from Etsy.com or make your own.  Add wedding slogans on the little flags and use straws in your wedding colors or just a pretty accent color. 

Photos: Brilliant Event Planning; The Wedding Bee; Etsy.com

Magical Signature Drinks (from a Harry Potter Inspired Wedding)

If you went to one of these Harry Potter inspired weddings what would you drink? The red Potter punch shown above? The Polyjuice Potion (in green below)? Served from a vintage trunk filled with spells full of magic?

Or maybe you'd like to try the Butter Beer? Hmmm, have no idea what this one would taste like, but am always up to try something new.

Or maybe your tipple of choice would be some orange pumpkin juice (shown above on the left) or some liquid luck (shown on the right)?

None of these liquid libations to your taste? For more Potter-esque drink recipes (all with great names) visit this site, which offers 20 alcoholic Harry Potter drinks.  Make some great signs noting the names of the drinks to add to the Potter look. 

Drink Pink Ink?

Photo courtesy of Kid Independent

"Pink ink for the Yink that drinks and winks?" No, it's not the Dr. Seuss book, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, it's ideas for drinks for the bride obsessed with pink! Although if you are inviting a Yink or two to your wedding I can get you a recipe for pink ink.  (Nestle strawberry milk works like a charm, or just make some of your own!)

But for the bride who is looking for drinks that are pink, using Chambord Raspberry Flavored Vodka is an option.  For recipes for pink drinks made from Chambord's Facebook Page.

Other pink options? Korbel Sweet Rose is a great substitute for serving for your champagne toast.  Try Korbel, you may never go back to boring champagne again!

Another option is Lancer's Rose.  A rose wine imported from Portugal, Lancers pairs well with Asian entrees or other spicy foods.  Or you can serve it chilled as your signature drink. 

Champagne and WHAT?

Almost every wedding serves champagne to their guests, but in an effort to make champagne at your wedding stand out why not add some rock candy on a stick to stir your champagne?  These pretty additions not only add sweetness but add zip to your champagne.  This idea is from Avery House's web site.  Click on the link to see more of their incredible inspirational luxury wedding photography. 

Ten Reasons to Serve Kahle as the Signature Drink at Your Wedding

 

Looking for a fresh and natural drink to serve at your wedding or shower?  Try any of these natural drinks made from Stevia leaves.  What's Stevia? It's a plant, first used by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay, the name means 'sweet herb.'  Pour these drinks over some crushed ice for a pretty and refreshing drink to serve at your wedding.  Add accents of mint or lavender depending on the flavor you are serving. 

 

Facts About Kahe:

 

• Naturally Sweetened with Stevia and Xylitol
• Low Calorie (40 to 65 per bottle)
• No Added Sugar
• No High Fructose Corn Syrup
• No Artificial Ingredients
• No Preservatives
• Gluten Free
• GMO Free
• Kosher Ingredients
• Glass Bottles & Paper Labels with Non-Toxic Ink

For more information about Kahle and to order some for yourself visit their web site.  Their site also has lots of recipes for making your signature drink with the addition of alcohol.  So whether you are looking for an alcoholic signature drink with fabulous juice or single bottles of non-alcoholic drinks for you wedding, Kahle is a great choice.  The addition of it being perfect for kosher weddings, or weddings that are gluten and GMO free make it more attractive to health conscious couples.

Tequila Anyone?

Tequila lovers take note! This recipe rocks!  Want to use a tequila based signature drink for you wedding? Why not try this refreshing drink from Milagro Tequila. Give your guests a drink that is refreshing but made with quality tequila with a kick! (Recipe and photo courtesy of Milargo Tequila's web site.) For more recipes (and lots of fun taste testing before you narrow it down to just one drink) head to Milagro's web site and browse their recipes.

The New Iced Tea

Iced Tea Liqueur?

Sweet Tea with a kick has become a mini-trend with the mixologist set.  Not only this Bols Sweet Tea Liqueur but some sweet tea vodkas made by familiar names like Burnett's, Seagrams, and Firefly.  For die hard southerners who must have their bourbon there's one of those too.  It's not too overpowering (which was my greatest fear as I first opened the bottle), rather it has a clean taste that isn't too syrupy.  It gives you a great sweet tea taste but adds an alcohol kick to it.  Makes it a fun ingredient to use making tea cocktails.  It lets you add a strong tea flavor without adding too much wateriness (is this a word? well you get the idea!) which is the reason to purchase an sweet tea liqueur instead of just adding some plain vodka to some sweet tea.  Suggestions for cocktails include a Lemon Tea Drop or an English Breakfast Cocktail.  Many other options are out there on the web.  So consider using some Bols Sweet Tea Liqueur to give your signature sweet tea a kick.  A nice change from some of the more boring signature cocktails out there.  Give your guests something new to try. 

English Breakfast Cocktail

Watermelon WHAT?

Watermelon what? OK I admit, I got totally sucked in by these great looking watermelon shooters created using limes and caraway seeds! So cool--not to mention great tasting! These are from The Family Kitchen where they've posted the recipe for all you shooter fans.  Easy as can be--for those of you who read my DIY wedding blog you know I ONLY make it if it's easy(well sometimes I attempt it if it's  hard but EASY is my thing.) I'm not into stressing out over a DIY project, or any other project!  So these shooters are just up my alley-easy and great looking, what more could you ask? Perfect for a picnic wedding or other outdoor event.  Take the idea of limes or lemons to hold your shooters and the sky is the limit! The only limits are your imagination and the flavors of JELLO! So go forth and create! Shooters that is!

Frozen Juices and Fruit--Cooling Your Drinks In Style!

Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice sent me this idea in my email, and I thought, 'WOW! how cool would these be for some pink lemonade at your wedding (or other pink drinks). The recipe is a combination of Ocean Spray products and fruit--nice and healthy too(the idea is also seen at my DIY Wedding Planning Blog! Make some of these ahead of time and bag them in the freezer for your wedding day. Use cool toothpicks in them to decorate your drinks even more! Thank you Ocean Spray for this great idea! Also, I don't know about the rest of you, but I do love their juice products!

Red, White and Blue Signature Drinks?

Having a military wedding and want to serve a selection of drinks in red, white and blue? Try there margaritas using Bols products.  Also great for a nautical wedding or a summer 4th of July wedding.  They look like they taste great--this is a perfect weekend to taste them!

Think Pink--Fetzer Zin that is!

If you're a bride who is into pink, try this White Zinfandel by Fetzer Vineyards.  ( I know, it says white but it IS pink) Dennis Martin, a winemaker at Fetzer says on their web site "If ever a wine was meant to bring a smile, it’s White Zin. From the coral pink color to the aromas of strawberries and cherries that leap from the bottle as soon as the cork is pulled, our White Zin is intent on making friends. Sure, it can be a refreshing summer sipper. But take my advice. Drink what you like, when you like it. That’s the rule at my house." 

And that's what should be the rule at your wedding too! Use this pretty Zin to toast or as your signature drink with berries floating in it.  (Tip: If you want to keep the wine cold (I know, I'm a Philistine, but I love cold wine) so I freeze strawberries, this way your wine doesn't get watery but it stays cool to drink--GENIUS if I do say so myself!)  Fetzer Wines are a great option to serve at your wedding.

Chambord Cocktail--Undercover Mink

There is a cocktail on Chambord's web site called 'Undercover Mink' that's perfect for a signature drink at your wedding.  It has sage and lavendar muddled in it and is garnished with a pretty sprig of lavender--a great look for weddings.  And I have to say, I am IN LOVE with Chambord Flavored Vodka! I first tried their flavored vodka at a cocktail party hosted by EP Henry (see link: EP Henry Patio Party at the Philadelphia Design Home.)  Trying out all the signature drinks you MIGHT want to serve is a fun way to have 'at home' dates while you're doing all your wedding planning.   

Undercover Mink (recipe from Chambord Web Site)

1 ½ oz CHAMBORD Flavored Vodka
½ oz Honey
½ oz Lemon Juice
5 Sage Leaves
Top Perrier®
Lavender

Muddle sage and lavender and add ingredients. Shake and strain into a rocks glass, garnish with a sage leaf and a lavender sprig.

Mint and Lime Iced Tea Recipe

Chow.com offers this Southern style mint and lime iced tea that will refresh your guests as well as look pretty at your reception.  The easy link for this recipe is here.  Try it at home for a picnic first and be sure you like the extreme sweetness which, if you're from a different part of the country you may not be accustomed to. Consider serving iced tea with lime without the sweetener for a less sugary taste.

Summer's Here and Your Drinks Should Reflect It!

Do these drinks look great to you?  The folks over at Pizzazzerie have the recipes(and more photos too) to make your signature drinks stand out.  This is their photo above to entice you over to their web site! So head on over by using this link!  Pizzazzerie has more than just signature drinks though so take the time to browse their web site for everything to make your wedding day a WOW! Recipes for: Watermelon Berry Sparklers, Peach Summer Sangria, Frozen Cranberry Margaritas, Basil Lemonade, Pink Lemonade Cocktail -- hard to decide which to try first, although that Watermelon Berry Sparkler looks enticing!  What's your favorite? Why?

Add a Candy Twist?

Cocktail hours with candy twists? Hmm... well if these are the twists I'll take some! Pappabubble makes these pretty candy twists to use as drink garnishes that not only add flavor but add color and pizzazz to your cocktails.  Turn your cocktail into a guilty pleasure times two! Contact Papabubble at 2120966-2599.  Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart.

Chanpagne and Lollipops?

Stirred, not sucked is the catchphrase that goes with these liqueur lollipops.  No more 'shaken not stirred,' instead stir your drinks with these liqueur flavored suckers.  As you swirl them around in your champagne glass, let them diffuse and dissolve adding flavor to your champagne.  Use liqueurs like blck currant, raspberry or peach to make these grown up lollipops for your wedding reception.  Photo from Mattha Stewart.

The recipe is Martha's as well:

Champagne Lollipop Stirrers:

Makes 24

• 2 cups sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 6 tablespoons water
• Flavoring extracts (black currant, peach, raspberry)
• Food coloring (burgundy, ivory, red)

Directions

1. Cook sugar, corn syrup, and the water in a small pan over medium-high heat, brushing sides often with a damp pastry brush, until mixture measures 300 degrees on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat. Stir in flavoring and coloring. Pour into lollipop molds; add sticks while still hot. Let cool completely, then unmold. Store in a single layer in an airtight container with a silica package.

 

Nonpareil Rimmed White Chocolate Martinis

The folks over at Pizzazzerie are the queens of cocktails with bling! These nonpareil rimmed white chocolate martinis just cement their rep as the queens of drinks that not only taste good but look good too! 

They posted this recipe for a Godiva White Chocolate Martini with directions on how to rim the glasses with pretty nonpareils in the color or colors of your choice. Any version of a white chocolate martini would do.  We suggest having a tray of these pre-made ready for your guests to ooh and ah over so they become part of your decor as well as a drink to die for!

We suggest providing the children at your wedding their own version of these using milk or chocolate milk--just tie a ribbon around the glass to designate the alcohol free versions!  You wouldn't want the kids quaffing back the adult versions!

1 1/2 shots Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
1 1/2 shots half-and-half
1/2 shot vodka
Nonpareils
Light corn syrup
Dip rim of martini glass in light corn syrup (easiest to pour light corn syrup into a shallow plate and dip martini glass into plate). Pour out nonpareils onto a second shallow plate. Dip martini glass into nonpareils. Fill cocktail shaker with Godiva white chocolate liqueur, half-and-half, and vodka. Shake over ice and strain into martini glass. Enjoy! Optional: Top with a dollop of whip cream!