When planning your wedding, there’s a lot to think about—music, food, flowers, and of course, the drinks! One of the best ways to streamline bar service, avoid long lines, and keep your guests refreshed all evening long is by offering a few delicious batch cocktails. Not only are these pre-made drinks cost-effective and efficient, but they also add a personalized, festive touch to your celebration.
Whether you’re going for romantic and elegant, rustic and relaxed, or fun and modern, batch cocktails can match your vibe. The best part? These drinks can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy every moment of your big day. Here are three crowd-pleasing cocktail recipes you can scale up to serve around 100 guests with ease.
1. Citrus White Sangria
Perfect for: Summer weddings, garden vibes and daytime celebrations.
Ingredients (for approx. 100 servings):
- 15 bottles (750ml) dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 4 cups brandy
- 3 cups triple sec or orange liqueur
- 2 liters club soda or lemon-lime soda (for topping before serving)
- 4 cups orange juice
- 2 cups simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Sliced citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes), berries, and green apples
Instructions:
- In large food-safe containers, combine the wine, brandy, triple sec, orange juice, and simple syrup.
- Add plenty of sliced fresh fruit.
- Chill overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
- Just before serving, add club soda for a refreshing fizz. Serve over ice.
2. Classic Bourbon Punch
Perfect for: Fall wedding and rustic vibes
Ingredients (for approx. 100 servings):
- 10 bottles (750ml) bourbon
- 6 cups fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups simple syrup
- 2 liters water or iced black tea (for a Southern twist)
- 2 liters ginger ale (for topping)
- Orange slices, cherries, and mint for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and water/tea in large beverage containers.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, add ginger ale and stir gently.
- Garnish each glass with an orange slice and cherry, or float garnishes in the dispenser.
3. Sparkling Lavender Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic or Spiked Option)
Perfect for: Brunch receptions, summer vibes, or as a non-alcoholic signature drink option.
Ingredients (for approx. 100 servings):
- 3 gallons lemonade (homemade or quality store-bought)
- 2 cups lavender simple syrup (steep dried culinary lavender in equal parts sugar and water, then strain)
- 2 liters sparkling water or club soda
- Optional: 3 bottles vodka or gin (750ml each) for spiked version
- Fresh lavender sprigs and lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large drink dispenser, combine lemonade and lavender syrup.
- Stir and chill thoroughly.
- If spiking, add vodka or gin and stir to combine.
- Just before serving, add sparkling water for effervescence.
- Garnish with lemon slices and lavender sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
