Whether you’re planning a wedding in Ocean Isle Beach, a birthday celebration in Leland, or a holiday party in Southport, curating the right cocktail menu can elevate your event from simple to spectacular.
Guests often remember the drinks just as much as the food—and a thoughtfully planned menu can help reflect your style, theme, and the local Brunswick County vibe.
Here’s how to design a custom cocktail list that delights your guests and enhances your event experience.
🍹 1. Consider the Season and Location
Start by looking at the time of year and event setting.
- Summer events in Oak Island call for refreshing, light drinks like mojitos, cucumber coolers, or spiked lemonades.
- Fall weddings might lean into flavors like apple, cinnamon, and bourbon.
- Beachfront parties love tropical vibes—think rum punch, pineapple mules, or coconut margaritas.
Let the natural atmosphere of Brunswick County inspire the flavor profiles you choose.
🥂 2. Offer Variety Without Overcomplicating
A good rule of thumb is to offer:
- One signature cocktail
- One beer option
- One wine or sparkling option
- A non-alcoholic mocktail
This keeps your menu accessible while still making it interesting. One or two curated signature cocktails can be far more impactful than a long, generic list.
✅ Bonus Tip: Give your signature drinks a fun name that matches the theme of the event or the couple’s personality.
🍊 3. Use Local Ingredients When Possible
Support Brunswick County’s local markets and farms by incorporating fresh, locally grown herbs and fruit.
- Strawberries from a spring market
- Mint from your backyard garden
- Honey from a local apiary
Local ingredients elevate the freshness and offer a unique personal touch your guests will notice.
🧊 4. Think About Presentation
A beautiful drink is a drink people talk about. Consider:
- Garnishes like edible flowers, citrus wheels, or herb sprigs
- Specialty glassware that fits your vibe (mason jars, coupes, rocks glasses)
- Custom cocktail napkins or drink stirrers for branding or a personal message
Presentation is part of the experience, and even the simplest drinks look elevated with the right styling.
đź“ť 5. Plan for Dietary Needs and Preferences
Don’t forget:
- Gluten-free options
- Low-sugar or keto-friendly mixers
- Alcohol-free options for kids or non-drinkers
A mocktail bar with fresh juices and herbs can be a thoughtful and inclusive feature.
🎨 6. Match Your Menu to the Theme
Is your event rustic? Try whiskey-based cocktails in smoked glasses.
Hosting a coastal affair? Go with citrus-forward gin drinks and tiki classics.
Throwing a retro party? Bring back old-school favorites like Tom Collins, Sidecars, or Grasshoppers.
When your drink menu complements the event design, it ties everything together beautifully.
👩‍💼 About POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending
Based in Shallotte, POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending specializes in creating unforgettable bar experiences throughout Brunswick County, NC—including Oak Island, Southport, Leland, and beyond.
Founded by Charity Sunrise, our team collaborates with each client to craft personalized cocktail menus that match their event’s mood, setting, and audience. We use fresh ingredients, serve with style, and help bring your vision to life one drink at a time.
Ready to elevate your bar experience?
Learn more at pourthepeople.com