5 Reasons Why You Need a Signature Cocktail
Nothing says, "let's celebrate!" like greeting your guests at the door with a delicious drink.
by Erin Henderson
I’ve long championed a theme for a party.
It doesn’t – and in most cases shouldn’t – be over-the-top. Something as easy going as florals for a spring brunch, or cottage country cozy for Christmas, is enough to create the compass for your message. Knowing your theme will dictate everything: food, setting, and, of course, the drinks.
I’ve hosted Christmas Tree Trimming parties that began with a warming Hot Buttered Bourbon Apple Cider; kick started fall apéro with a Pumpkin Spice French 75, and, inspired by a summer trip to the dreamy French port city of Cassis, greeted guests arriving for a pool party with a Kir Royale.
Signature cocktails have now become an expectation of my regular guests. A surprise and delight, they’re excited to discover what will be served. It’s fun to see the child-like glee of your guests when greeting them at the door, a glass of something new and different in hand.
1. It Sets the Tone
Once again, it all circles back to theme. Greeting guests with the signature cocktail gives them a subtle clue as to the vibe of the party - formal, casual, beach themed, classic - the drink you serve sets the mood of the party.
2. It Feels Festive
Whether it's Christmas, Canada Day or your basic Friday night, the signature drink immediately takes your gathering up a notch. It says, "this is a special occasion," one that you've put thought and into making a tad more important than every other day.
3. It's an Ice Breaker
You probably don't need a conversation starter for your nearest and dearest, but what if those BFF's are bringing a new date - or you're blending groups who may not be that familiar with each other? Sharing a laugh over the punch bowl is as good a reason as any to get the gang mixing and mingling.
4. It Becomes Tradition
When you serve a signature cocktail, it puts a little pizazz in your party and gives friends and family something to look forward to. It doesn't have to be the same cocktail every time – in fact we would advise against it as seasons, occasions, and celebrations change, and so should your signature drink – but the simple fact that guests know they're going to get a little something special becomes a fun ritual.
5. It Solidifies Your Party Host Status
This one might be a tad self-serving, but it's true. When you put a little extra effort into throwing a bash – which includes thinking of, creating, and serving a signature cocktail – it shows you are serious about hosting a party. And there's nothing wrong with wowing guests so they always look forward to coming over, and as a reward you get to enjoy the hard-earned reputation of being a Host With the Most.