Why a Welcome Drink Station Is the Perfect Way to Greet Your Guests
Say Cheers in Style: Why a Welcome Drink Station Is the Perfect Way to Greet Your Guests
Picture this: you’ve just said “I do,” your guests are full of joy (and maybe happy tears), and the celebration is just beginning. As they make their way from your ceremony to cocktail hour, what’s better than being greeted with a beautifully crafted drink that feels like you? A welcome drink station is more than a nice touch—it’s a fun, functional, and stylish way to kick off your reception and make guests feel instantly included in the party.
At Hawthorne House, welcome drinks have become a favorite detail for couples looking to add a little personality and a lot of hospitality to their big day. Whether your style is timeless and classic or playful and bold, your signature drinks can reflect that. Maybe it’s a twist on your favorite cocktail, a nod to your first date, or even a clever drink named after your pet. Your signature sips set the tone for what’s to come: a celebration that’s uniquely you.
Beyond being personal, welcome drinks are practical too. Offering a few drinks pre-poured and ready to grab helps reduce bar lines, which means more time for mingling, photos, and of course—dancing. Guests get to try something fun and unexpected, especially if you include unique touches like a dried fruit garnish, a sprig of fresh rosemary, or a custom drink stirrer with your wedding logo or monogram. These extra details not only elevate the presentation but also create great photo opportunities. We've seen couples and guests alike gather around the welcome drink table for those perfectly Instagrammable moments.
At Hawthorne House, your welcome drink station is totally customizable. It can be set up inside or outdoors, depending on your layout, vibe, or season. We’ve hosted weddings with two to six signature options, and each one felt intentional, fun, and so well-received by guests. Whether it’s a fresh mojito for summer, a cinnamon-spiced mocktail for fall, or a his-and-hers margarita combo, your welcome drinks can suit your menu, theme, or even your color palette.
And don’t forget about the zero-proof options! Many couples are incorporating inclusive, alcohol-free welcome drinks like sparkling water spritzers, flavored lemonades, or mocktails made with non-alcoholic spirits like Ritual. These are just as stylish, flavorful, and photo-worthy—and ensure everyone has something festive in hand.
So if you’re looking for a way to wow your guests, keep things flowing, and show off your personality from the very first sip—a welcome drink station is it. Cheers to love, creativity, and a celebration that starts as soon as you say “We do!”
Photography by Tricia Bailey Photography