09/03/2026
Cocktail Hour Tips From a Venue π₯
Weβve seen hundreds of cocktail hours held in our space over the years, and the most successful ones tend to have a few things in common. Here are some of our biggest tips when planning yours:
β¨ Have drinks ready to go
When cocktail hour begins, everyone tends to head to the bar at once. Help ease that initial rush by having pre-poured w**e or b**r ready to be passed, or consider a batched signature cocktail thatβs ready to pour. Itβs an easy way to get drinks into your guestsβ hands quickly and keep the bar line moving.
β¨ Donβt skip the food
Passed appetizers, stationary displays, grazing tables β have it your way! No matter how you choose to serve it, having something for guests to snack on during cocktail hour is a must. You donβt want guests heading into your reception hungry and counting down the minutes until dinner.
β¨ Add some entertainment
Give your guests something to enjoy while they mingle! Live music, a photo booth, an audio guest book or another interactive element can make cocktail hour feel like part of the celebration instead of simply the wait between ceremony and reception.
β¨ Be intentional with the timing
Thereβs a reason itβs called cocktail hour! Around 60 minutes gives guests time to grab a drink, enjoy an appetizer and mingle while you finish up photos. If you know youβll need a little longer, plan accordingly with enough food, drinks and entertainment to keep your guests enjoying themselves.
Cocktail hour is only one piece of your wedding day, but a little extra planning here can make a big difference in your guestsβ experience. π€
VENDORS:
In-House Day-of Coordinator: Mersadesa Event & Design Co. | Design β’ Planning β’ Coordination
Photography: B. Wise Photo | Columbia MO Family & Newborn Photographer
Florals: Carley Jean |WEDDING FLORIST
DJ: DJ Shark Attack | STL, KC, COMO DJs
Decor: 3604 Decor
Photobooth: Missouri Weddings | Blue Diamond Events βeX-ceS-sIVeβ ENTERTAINMENT
Catering x Bar: Eclipse Catering and Events + Broadway Brewery