Forget getting the happy couple a new toaster. Get them the tools they need to make a proper toast!

Plan a Stock-The-Bar Shower

Want a modern twist on the classic wedding shower? Why not try a Stock the Bar Party. It's a great way to include couples in the pre-wedding festivities and it will make entertaining fun and easy for the newlyweds. Bonus: you'll get to enjoy those future parties as their guest. 

Couples can register for specific items or the party host can offer suggestions to guests based on a theme. One idea is to divide your guests into four groups with each assigned to a certain type of gift based on that classic wedding phrase...

Something Borrowed

Beverages that "borrow" their taste from something else such as flavored vodkas or wine blends.

Clark’s Pick:

– Pol is always a great Champagne to serve to your guests: a classy, balanced expression of the three grape varieties allowed by law. It has plenty of rich apple fruit along with a streak of lemon zest and just a hint of juicy tangerine. The palate is round but fresh, and has a long, steely finish which leaves you wanting another sip.

Shopping at a destination liquor store, like Colonial, can be overwhelming – like being a kid in a candy store. But we’ve created a tool to help. Below is a complete shopping list with both choice (budget conscious) and splurge options for all of the major categories. You don’t have to buy everything at once. Just check off the items when you purchase them and watch your home bar become the ideal celebration station.

There are a lot of details to plan but you don’t have to do it alone. Just as there are experts to help you select beautiful attire, find a magical venue or choose the perfect cake, Colonial Wines & Spirits can help with beverage planning for the various parties and meals that accompany this all-important event.

HERE ARE JUST A FEW WAYS WE CAN BE YOUR PERSONAL WEDDING ASSISTANT:

1. One of the biggest challenges in planning a reception is what to serve and how much you need. Our staff has years of experience in this area, and will be happy to assist.

2. Colonial’s on-staff chef can suggest perfect food and wine pairings for all of your celebratory meals.

3. For your special occasion, a signature cocktail is a must! Our staff designs signature cocktails for all kinds of events. We’ll put one together that flawlessly captures the spirit of your wedding.

So you want to have an open bar at your reception. Here are some money saving tips:

1. Make selections that are not the nationally-recognized brand names. For example, some of the most popular imported vodka brands can cost two to three times as much as lesser known quality brands.

2. Make selections that are not “age specific.” Scotch, Bourbon and Irish whiskeys that are aged for 12 – 30 years are naturally going to be expensive. Choose Scotch Blends, and Bourbons and Irish whiskeys that carry no age statement.

3. Purchase the 1.75 Liter size. In virtually every case, the cost per ounce will be considerably cheaper.

4. Offer only the basic bar set up. It is impossible to have everyone’s favorite. Usually, a Bourbon, Scotch, Vodka, Gin and Rum will meet requests of the large majority of guests.

5. Make sure bartenders know to open only one bottle per bar at a time. Most stores will allow the return of unopened bottles for credit. You don’t want to end up with a lot of opened bottles.

Wedding Cake Martini

• 1 part whipped flavor vodka

• 1/2 part Dolin White Vermouth

• vanilla cake frosting

• coconut*

In shaker, pour vodka and vermouth over ice. Shake well and set aside.

Add warm water to frosting to thin and pour into a bowl or plate. In a second plate, pour coconut. Rim glass with frosting, then with coconut. Strain martini from shaker into the rimmed glass.

For larger quantities: Pour 1 part vodka and 1/2 part vermouth in pitcher over ice, stir vigorously, and serve. 

* Variation: Use colorful cake sprinkles in place of coconut.

The Blushing Bachelorette Martini

• 1 oz. Dekuyper Peach Schnapps

• 4 oz. Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Wine

• 1 oz. grenadine

Pour the peach Schnapps and grenadine into a Champagne flute.

Top with sparkling wine.

The Grinning Groom Martini

• 2 parts ROXOR Gin

• 1 part St-Germain Liqueur

• ½ part fresh squeezed lime juice

Fill shaker with ice. Add all ingredients over ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with lime twist.