Oh you lucky, smart people, you, getting married at the epicenter of a seismic wave of beverage revolution. If you decide you’d like to feature a Hudson Valley craft beverage at your Hudson Valley wedding, you have more choices of beer, fine wine, cider, and distilled drinks than ever before (check our sister publication, VISITVortex, for more about the scene).
Most couples decide to offer at least beer and wine, along with soft drinks, but there’s no law that says you have to do that. Only you know your crew and their preferences. On the subject of soft drinks, it’s nice to have water, a coffee and tea station, and a festive yet nonalcoholic choice that’s not soda pop.
Guests typically consume two drinks apiece in the first hour of open bar, and one per hour after that; for a five-hour reception, then, six drinks per guest is typical and allowing for seven should mean you’ll have plenty.
The simple way to begin finding someone to serve beverages at your reception is to ask your caterer for suggestions. They probably have a good idea of who can do a good job providing whatever you need. Most of our area’s fine drink shops will happily help you select whatever you need and deliver to your venue, but you’ll still need the barware, some bartenders—and the bar itself, if one doesn’t exist—and your caterer will know where to find it.
Venues generally offer a selection of packages that include a period or periods of open bar. Guests typically consume two drinks apiece in the first hour of open bar, and one per hour after that; for a five-hour reception, then, six drinks per guest is typical and allowing for seven should mean you’ll have plenty. Of course, not everyone will drink that much, but it’s important to remember that some will go half-finished, and that leftover bottles make dandy gifts.
Rule of thumb: A bottle of wine holds seven glasses, a bottle of spirits about a dozen drinks. There are numerous formulas offered on various websites for how to break down the mix of wine, beer, and hard liquor, but none can take the place of your knowledge of your people and their preferences.
Don’t be afraid to save money on the “Champagne” toast by pouring prosecco or cava. (Champagne “towers” can be just as visually stunning with these alternative sparklies as well.) A tasteful solution to the question of full bar vs. just beer and wine is to offer an open bar consisting of beer, wine, cider, and your signature wedding cocktail. A vodka-based drink is the safest crowd-pleasing choice. And offer a virgin version for those who want to drink your health without any side effects; modern craft “mocktails” can be made exquisitely crafty and tasty.
binnewater
Kingston, 845-331-0237, binnewater.com
It is very important to keep guests hydrated for any event, large or small. Binnewater can provide New York’s finest spring water and Mountain Valley Spring Water, in addition to ice for keeping those drinks nice and cool.
blue bird wine & spirits
Accord, 845-626-0140, bluebirdwineshop.com
A bottle shop on Route 209 in Accord that specializes in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines and unique craft spirits. Bluebird offers a full range of beverage consulting services for parties and gatherings both large and small. Take a look at the ever-changing inventory at bluebirdwineshop.com or on Instagram @bluebirdwineshop or reach out via email at hello@bluebirdwineshop.com to discuss your needs.
miron wine & spirits
Kingston, 845-336-5155, mironwineandspirits.com
Miron Wine & Spirits is the Hudson Valley’s premier source for your wedding beverage needs, from event planning advice to special orders and deliveries. We carry an extensive selection of fine wine and spirits at low, everyday prices. View our inventory online at mironwineandspirits.com and ask us how we can accommodate your special day. Rely on Miron Wine & Spirits for an affair to remember!
stone ridge wine and spirits
Stone Ridge, 845-687-7125, stoneridgewine.com
Located in historic Stone Ridge, this knowledgeable group is uniquely qualified to recommend wines for any event or menu. This year marks their 23rd year in business, and they are constantly looking for ways to improve service. Stone Ridge Wine and Spirits looks forward to assisting you with selections for your big day.
