Mocktails....Non-Alcoholic Signature Drinks for Your Wedding Reception

No that's not a typo, I meant to say Non Alcoholic Signature Drinks! Yes it can be done. I was having a chat last night with a bride-to-be who is trying to determine if she and her fiance should serve alcohol at their reception when the two of them do not drink. I do understand the concern of trying to please your guests, because I think it is very important to make your guests feel comfy, but not if it compromises your values or beliefs.

Just so I'm clear, I'm not downing anyone for having a full bar with top shelf liquor at their party, this is merely to give some ideas for those who do not want to serve alcohol or wanting to give an option to your guests who aren't drinkers (which is a great idea)! Believe it or not people, you can still have a fun party without alcoholic drinks. Take a look at a few options...

How about the Virginal Sangria (not sure if I like that name).

Ingredients:
Your favorite fruits (I used red delicious apples, oranges, plums, and peaches), sliced artistically
3/4 C homemade grenadine (Pomegranate syrup)
4 C 100% Cranberry Juice
4 C Ginger Ale, cold

Directions:
The day before you wish to serve this sangria do the following:
In a large bowl place sliced fruits, cover with the cranberry juice and the pomegranate syrup.

Refrigerate overnight. Also have the ginger ale cooling in the fridge.

At service:
In an attractive serving pitcher add ice and the 4 cups of ginger ale.

To this add fruit chunks and the soaking liquid. Serve and enjoy.

Now for all you who are looking for a traditional southern drink without the kick to it, try the Virgin Mint Julep.

1	ounce lime juice (or juice of 1/2 lime)
1	ounce orange juice
1	ounce pineapple juice
1/2	ounce raspberry flavored syrup
	club soda, to fill glass
4	crushed mint leaves

1. Combine all ingredients except club soda in a shaker half filled with ice. Shake well.
2. Strain into collins glass. Add club soda and stir gently.
3. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Now this was my favorite find, it's called the Blushing Bride. This drink would be lovely served in a flute or in a martini glass.

Ingredients:
5 oz sparkling cider
splash of grenadine
splash of lime juice

Fill glass with sparkling cider and add grenadine and lime juice. Garnish with maraschino cherry.



Now to end the night, why not offer a signature coffee. This would be a wonderful touch to send your guests off rejuvenated with a nice latte, cafe au lait or even your own special recipe. This one sounds delish! I may try it in the morning.


Chocolate Cream Coffee

• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons chocolate syrup
• 1 cup coffee
• Ground cinnamon
• Sweetened chocolate powder
• Grated orange peel

Whip all but 1 tablespoon of the cream. Stir the reserved tablespoon of cream and the chocolate syrup in a saucepan over low heat until mixed together. Add the coffee gradually, stirring the mixture as you do so. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and cinnamon, chocolate powder, and grated orange peel.

I hope these ideas have shown you the many possibilities of drinks that can be served at your reception. There are a number of alcoholic drinks that can be changed to a non-alcoholic beverage. Ask your caterer/bartender or better yet ask your planner to help you!