Just Flat Out Cool!

If you live in the Tri-State area, you're starting to experience those first few weeks of chilling cold. Winter is almost upon us, which means so are winter weddings. One way of bringing a little winter warmth into your wedding is through your signature drink. When we think of signature drinks, we usually think of a "Welcome Drink" that's usually a bellini or appletini. Try straying from the norm and including a hot signature drink, like warm cider or hot chocolate (if you're doing a Christmas wedding, do a peppermint hot chocolate). Here are a few classic warm drink recipes:

Mulled Wine

2 bottles dry red wine
4 ounces port or brandy
12 whole cloves
4 cinnamon sticks
1 large orange, zested

Serving suggestion: Garnish with cinnamon sticks or freshly ground nutmeg

Combine ingredients in a large pot and bring to a simmer. Do not allow mixture to boil. Heat for 20 minutes and serve in a large, heat resistant punch bowl.

Hot Toddy Recipe

8 tbsp honey
6 glass tea
16 shots brandy
8 slice lemon

Brew tea and fill a tall glass 3/4 full. Mix in honey. Mix in brandy shots. Add lemon slice and enjoy. Makes 8 servings.

Hot Buttered Rum

8 oz light rum
8 tsp sugar
4 tsp butter
32 cloves

Add the sugar, butter and cloves to a coffee mug. Pour the rum, and stir well. Fill with boiling water. Stir again, and serve. Makes 8 servings.

Don't hesitate to take a favorite drink or something special to you as a couple and work with your caterer to make it happen. If you guys always go to Starbucks and drink Pumpkin Spice Lattes, ask your caterer to come up with a similiar recipe. You'll be surprised at how willing they are to help you create that extra special personalized touch.

There are no rules stating that your signature drink must be served in the beginning of your reception. A nice winter idea is having a "to go" bar, with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and your special drink. Complete the "take home" buffet with to-go cups, sugared spoons, and tea bags that have your monogram on it. Guests will thank you for the special treat all the way home.

Check out www.brandedcups.com for personalized "to-go" cups and http://www.beau-coup.com/personalized_tea_favors.htm for personalized tea bags.

Have any hot drink recipes that you'd like to share? Or more suggestions for a "to-go" bar? Leave a comment or send us an email stacey@asyouwishwed.biz.