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Wedding Alcohol 101: All You Need to Know about Planning, Purchasing, and Pouring

March 28, 2025 | marissa

If you’re wondering how much alcohol to buy for a wedding, you’re not alone. While many venues, caterers, or bar services provide alcohol as part of their packages, there are plenty of scenarios where you might need to purchase it yourself. That can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it easier. From deciding on the type of bar to calculating how much to buy and where to purchase in bulk, here’s everything you need to know about wedding alcohol.

What Type of Bar Should I Have?

Before stocking up on bottles, you need to decide which kind of bar setup best suits your wedding.

Open Bar

An open bar allows guests to order any drink they’d like, as many times as they please. This typically includes top-shelf selections and a variety of liquors, wines, and beers. Because of the unlimited nature of an open bar, it’s the most expensive option and usually requires professional bartenders.

Limited Bar

A limited bar features a pre-set drink menu, often including two signature cocktails, a selection of wine (red and white), and beer. This option gives your guests variety while keeping costs more manageable.

What Alcohol Should I Serve?

A good starting point is a mix of 50% liquor, 25% beer, and 25% wine. Typically, wine is split evenly between red and white. But of course, you can adjust these ratios based on your personal preference or wedding style.

Signature Cocktail

Signature cocktails are a fun way to personalize your wedding drinks. Choose a cocktail that reflects your taste and theme—for example, mai tais for a tropical wedding or spiked cider for a cozy autumn celebration. You can even get creative and name the drinks after your pet or an inside joke.

Champagne Toast

A champagne toast is a classic wedding tradition. If you plan on having one, factor in the additional bottles needed. For larger weddings (over 50 guests), individual pours can quickly become a logistical headache. You could instead opt for a modern, trendy champagne tower which is perfect for photo opps. 

Mocktails 

Don’t forget about the non-drinkers! If you have guests who prefer mocktails, offering a thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic option is a great way to make everyone feel included. Instead of just water or soda, consider something festive like a virgin sangria or a sparkling lemonade—perfect for a summer celebration.

How Much Alcohol to Buy for a Wedding? 

The golden rule: It’s always better to have too much than too little.

To estimate how much to buy, consider:

  • Guest count
  • Reception duration
  • Time of wedding (guests will typically drink more at Friday weddings compared to Sunday ones)
  • Whether you’re having a champagne toast

A general formula is one drink per person per hour, or about five drinks per person for a five-hour event. Using this information and the proportions shared above, if you have 100 guests and are not including a champagne toast, you would need approximately:

  • 125 beers (500 total drinks x 25%)
  • 25 bottles of wine (125 glasses, assuming five glasses per bottle)
  • 13 bottles of liquor (250 mixed drinks, assuming 20 servings per bottle)

If math isn’t your thing or you’d rather skip the number crunching, don’t worry–there are plenty of wedding alcohol calculators to do the work for you. Just keep in mind that each calculator  may use a slightly different formula, so results may vary! Still, they’re a useful way to get a solid estimate of how much alcohol to buy for your wedding.  

Wedding Alcohol Calculators

Best Places to Buy Alcohol in Bulk

1. Markerview Liquor 

Based in Rochester, New York, this family-owned retailer began as a small, local wine and liquor store. Today, Marketview Liquor simplifies the process for engaged couples nationwide to find high-quality wine and spirits at competitive prices. With discounts on bulk orders and curated selections to suit any budget, you can find  90-point wines under $15, budget-friendly bottles under $8, and enjoy free shipping on select cases, offering numerous ways to save. 

2. Costco or Sam’s Club

These warehouse clubs offer significant discounts on large quantities, making them ideal for stocking a wedding bar without breaking the bank. Costco and Sam’s Club, found in multiple cities and suburbs, offer fantastic spots to pick up alcohol for your big day. From top-shelf liquor to budget-friendly wine and beer, these stores have a range of options to fit different tastes and wedding styles. Plus, many locations allow returns on unopened bottles, just in case you overestimate your needs.

3. Total Wine & More 

What sets Total Wine & More apart from other retailers is its extensive selection. You can choose from–literally–thousands of wines, beers, and liquors, ranging from top brands to budget-friendly options. They’re also renowned for their expertise, with in-store specialists ready to help you select the right quantities and pairings for your wedding menu. Plus, you won’t have to worry about acquiring a membership like you would at Costco or Sam’s Club. 

4. GoToLiquorStore

GoToLiquorStore is an online platform that connects customers with local liquor stores, making it easy to browse and order alcohol for delivery or pickup. Couples planning their wedding can take advantage of its convenience, extensive selection, and price transparency—allowing them to compare prices from various retailers and find the best deals on wine, beer, and spirits. With bulk ordering options and the ability to schedule deliveries, GoToLiquorStore offers a stress-free way to stock a wedding bar without the hassle of multiple trips to different stores. 

Choosing and purchasing alcohol for your wedding doesn’t have to be stressful. By deciding on your bar type, calculating the right amount, and shopping smart, you can ensure your guests have a fantastic time—without breaking the bank. Cheers to that!

wedding alcohol 101: all you need to know about purchasing in bulk

Image by Art of Grace

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Eight Guests, One Saxophonist, and the Mediterranean Sea: Inside an Intimate and Nontraditional Greece Elopement

March 27, 2025 | justine

Planning a wedding is never easy, but for Adam and Tosha, making their dream of a Greece elopement a reality was worth every challenge. With just eight guests, a soulful saxophonist, and the breathtaking Mediterranean Sea as their backdrop, they crafted a celebration that was deeply personal, stylish, and unforgettable.

Adam and Tosha’s love story began in 2016 when they connected on OkCupid while attending Washington State University. Their first date at Airway Hills Golf Course lasted three hours, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. “Adam’s kind heart won me over, and my energy reinvigorated him,” Tosha recalls. They spent every day together that summer, sharing coffee breaks and late-night sweets, building a foundation that would lead them to their ultimate adventure: a wedding halfway across the world.

What We Love About This Greece Elopement:

Featured Vendor:

tmInspired Photography

Booking a Venue Sight Unseen and Choosing the Right Vendors

Their dream was clear—a wedding that felt intimate, effortless, and organic, set against Santorini’s stunning cliffside. “We wanted our wedding to feel fun, intimate, and heartfelt, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a garden on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.”

To create this seamless experience, they combined the best of both worlds—bringing trusted vendors from Washington State while also supporting local Santorini businesses. “Being in the industry, I already knew a few vendors I needed to bring with me. For the others, we wanted to support island life and give back to their industry as well.”

Their approach to planning was meticulous yet flexible. They researched venues extensively, narrowed down their options, and finally selected the perfect location—without ever seeing it in person. “We committed to our venue sight unseen, which was surreal when we finally arrived,” Tosha says.

A Celebration Inspired by Greece’s Beauty and Spirit

The wedding design was inspired by the natural beauty of Santorini. “We took inspiration from the local plants, food, and infrastructure, as well as the spirit of Greek life,” Tosha explains. They ensured their guests’ comfort with parasols and fans, and selected seating that blended seamlessly with the scenery.

Their intimate ceremony was perfectly complemented by a unique musical choice—a saxophonist instead of a DJ, creating a soulful, romantic atmosphere. And to kick off the celebration, they hosted their rehearsal dinner on a 50-foot sailing yacht. “It felt like a movie—sailing on the sea, jumping into warm water, eating the best dinner while watching the sunset, and listening to the Mamma Mia! soundtrack. I tear up just thinking about it.”

Greece Elopement Style

Every detail of their Greece elopement was a reflection of their personalities and priorities. Tosha’s gown was a shimmering masterpiece—three layers of tulle that sparkled with every movement, weighing an impressive nine pounds. Adam embraced effortless style, pairing a tan suit with dark brown suede shoes and custom dog cufflinks, a heartfelt nod to their beloved pets back home.

For her signature bridal look, Tosha chose Chanel’s #48, a soft rose lipstick, and Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori as her wedding day fragrance. Adam, true to his nature-loving spirit, kept his hair down and skipped neckwear, embodying a relaxed, organic style that felt perfectly him.

A Serendipitous Ceremony Twist

Their wedding day began with a peaceful first look at Nimbus Santorini, a boutique hotel in Oia that set the perfect tone for the intimate celebration ahead. The cliffside ceremony space, designed for just eight guests, felt both cozy and breathtaking—exactly what they had envisioned.

“We just loved being able to commit our handwritten vows to one another at a venue we picked without seeing it in person. We worked so hard to stay true to what we wanted, and standing there together made it all feel so surreal.”

No wedding is complete without an unexpected twist. In a rush to the venue, Tosha forgot her bouquet at the hotel. While the staff rushed to deliver it, their officiant—who had another wedding scheduled—had to leave. “Luckily, our lead bartender stepped up to officiate,” Tosha laughs. “His first language is Greek, so there were some funny moments reading the script in English, but honestly, it felt more heartfelt and personal than the original officiant would have.”

It was an unplanned but perfect moment—one that made their ceremony even more unforgettable.

A Greece Elopement Reception Under Arches and Starlight

After exchanging vows, they explored the charming town of Oia, capturing stunning photos, sipping champagne, and sharing their first dance before cutting their cake. “We took dance classes for a year, and it paid off—it made for such a memorable moment that gave everyone something to talk about during dinner.” As cold sparklers lit up the cliffside, the moment felt straight out of a dream.

Their reception took place beneath elegant arches that perfectly reflected their style, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated three-course dinner featuring authentic local dishes, setting the stage for a magical evening. 

Later that night, after the last toast had been made and the final song had played, they stripped off their wedding attire and jumped into their private pool together—an intimate, carefree ending to a day they’d never forget.

Advice for Future Couples

For couples dreaming of a Greece elopement, Tosha shares one key piece of advice: “Give yourself plenty of time to plan an international wedding. Trying to rush it only leads to stress.”

For Adam and Tosha, their wedding wasn’t just about the ceremony—it was about crafting an entire experience that felt authentic, joyful, and uniquely theirs. And with Santorini’s cliffs, the Mediterranean breeze, and their closest loved ones by their side, they created a love story that will be cherished for a lifetime.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – tmInspired Photography
Event Planning – Elevated Events by Tosha
Venue + Catering – Canaves Oia Suites
Coordinator  – Melanie Papadopoulou of Canaves Oia Suites
Floral Design – Red Box Days
Officiant Consulting – Another One Ties The Knot
Live Music – Fotinos Tsakopoulos
Videography – Ochoa Films
Invitation Design – Scripted Sketches
Makeup Artist – Makeup Santorini Renia
Hair Styling – Wedding Hair by Rhianna
Wedding Dress – The Wedding Bell Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Mens Wearhouse
Cuff Links – Anavia Design
Flat Lay Accessories – Champagne and Grit + Chasing Stone 
Rentals – Spark Event Rentals
Sparklers – Skylight Santorini
Dance Instructor – Arthur Murray Dance Studio

 

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The Power of Scentscaping: A Wedding Fragrance is the New Way To Anchor Your Memories

March 26, 2025 | justine

Scentscape your big day by diffusing your signature wedding fragrance to set the perfect mood throughout your special day.  Image by Laning Photography

No other sense is as strongly linked to memory as smell. A familiar scent can instantly transport you back to a specific moment, like the smell of fresh-baked cookies from childhood or the ocean breeze from a favorite vacation. That’s why scentscaping—adding a signature scent to your wedding—is becoming such a popular trend. By weaving fragrance into different parts of your day, you create a powerful connection between your wedding and the memories it holds.

But the beauty of scentscaping isn’t just for you, it enhances the experience for your guests as well. A thoughtfully chosen fragrance can set the mood, create an immersive atmosphere, and leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s a light floral aroma drifting through the ceremony or a warm, cozy scent filling the reception, your signature scent makes every moment feel even more special.

Picture this: years from now, you catch a familiar scent in the air, and suddenly, you’re right back at your wedding—the moment you said “I do,” your first dance, the laughter of loved ones. That’s the power of scentscaping. A signature fragrance doesn’t just set the mood on your big day. It keeps the memories alive forever.

How To Choose Your Wedding Fragrance

Let Your Everyday Scent Inspire Your Wedding Fragrance

You don’t have to look far for your wedding fragrance if you already have a favorite perfume or cologne. You want to feel like yourself on your big day, so go with something familiar—but consider adding a twist.  Layer it with a complementary scent, choose a richer or lighter version, or find a fragrance with similar notes that feels special for the occasion.

Work with a Fragrance Expert

Consider working with a fragrance expert to design a custom wedding scent. You can create a fragrance that reflects your personality, wedding theme, or even the season of your big day. Brands like Jo Malone even offer scent layering, allowing you to blend different notes for a personalized touch.

Collaborate on a Signature Scent as a Couple

Some couples choose to blend their favorite scents to create something that represents them both. This could mean designing custom perfumes for each other or picking a shared scent to wear throughout the day. Olfactory NYC offers a way to create a custom scent from home.

Match Your Wedding Theme or Location

Your wedding scent should complement your venue’s atmosphere. Think about the natural scents around you—like salty ocean air, fresh flowers, or warm wood—and choose a fragrance that enhances them. The goal is to create a seamless, immersive experience that feels natural to your setting.

Pair Your Wedding Fragrance With Your Flowers

Your flowers naturally add fragrance to your wedding, so your perfume should complement, not compete. Identify the main scents in your bouquet—are they light and fresh, rich and floral, or warm and spicy? Choose a fragrance with similar or harmonizing notes for a balanced effect. If your flowers are strongly scented, go for something soft and subtle. If they’re mild, you can introduce bolder perfume notes without overpowering the space.

Junebug Tip: Test your fragrance before the big day to see how it evolves over time. Scents change as they wear, reacting to your body chemistry, temperature, and even the fabrics you’re wearing. Fragrance can also behave differently in various settings—what feels light and airy outdoors may be more intense in an enclosed space. If that’s the case,  opt for soft diffusers to maintain  a balanced scent. 

Ways to Infuse Wedding Fragrance into Your Celebration

Scentscape Your Invitations

Give guests a preview of your wedding by adding a light fragrance to your invitations. It’s an elegant touch that builds anticipation for the big day. Just remember to keep it subtle—no one wants an overwhelming scent when they open their mail!

Use Diffusers or Room Sprays

Have you ever entered a building and instantly noticed its scent? Many hotels,venues, and retail stores  use scent diffusers to create a welcoming and memorable atmosphere. You can do the same by placing small diffusers in key areas, like the ceremony entrance, restrooms, or lounge spaces. Room sprays are another great option for dressing rooms or the bridal suite.

Set Up a Fragrance Bar

Want to give guests a fun, interactive experience? A fragrance bar lets them mix their own custom scents to take home as a keepsake. It’s a unique alternative to traditional wedding favors and adds a personal touch to your reception.

Provide Aromatic Favors

Send guests home with a scented reminder of your wedding. Mini perfume samples, scented candles, or essential oil blends make thoughtful favors that they’ll actually use—and every time they do, they’ll think of your special day.

Choosing the Right Scent for Your Wedding Style

Floral

A garden or spring wedding feels even more romantic with scents like rose, peony, jasmine, lavender, and lilac. These delicate florals enhance the beauty of blooming flowers and create a dreamy, timeless atmosphere.

 

Fresh & Aquatic

Ideal for beachside or summer celebrations, light and airy scents such as citrus, green tea, ocean breeze, white tea, and mint bring a refreshing, uplifting feel. These fragrances mimic the crispness of a seaside breeze or a sunlit garden.

 

Woody & Earthy

Rustic venues like barns, forests, or fall weddings pair beautifully with warm, grounding scents like sandalwood, cedar, vetiver, fig, and sage. These rich, natural notes complement the organic charm of outdoor settings and autumnal palettes.

 

Warm & Spicy

Winter weddings or intimate evening celebrations feel even cozier with inviting scents such as vanilla, amber, musk, cinnamon, and honey. These warm fragrances create a sense of nostalgia and romance, perfect for candlelit receptions and cold-weather gatherings.

 

Modern & Chypre

City weddings or sleek, modern venues call for clean, sophisticated fragrances like white musk, bergamot, black pepper, and violet leaf. These scents add an effortlessly elegant and refined touch.

 

Crisp & Herbal

Adventurous celebrations in the mountains or remote destinations are enhanced by invigorating scents such as pine, eucalyptus, leather, and fresh air notes. These fragrances capture the wild, untamed beauty of the outdoors.

 

Gourmand & Sweet

For a touch of decadence, rich and dessert-like scents—vanilla, caramel, tonka bean, chocolate, and almond—create a warm, inviting atmosphere. These fragrances are perfect for winter weddings, ballroom receptions, or celebrations with a playful, indulgent feel.

 

Where to Find Your Signature Wedding Fragrance

Jo Malone London 

If you love the idea of scent layering and a completely personalized fragrance experience, Jo Malone London is a must. Their signature scents are designed for mixing, allowing you to create a well-balanced, custom blend. With fresh, sophisticated options like Peony & Blush Suede or Wood Sage & Sea Salt, you can craft a wedding fragrance that feels uniquely you.

Le Labo 

For those who love artisan, handcrafted scents, Le Labo is all about personalized perfume blending and high-quality, small-batch fragrances. Their unisex scents, like Santal 33 and Another 13, have a cult following for a reason—rich, unique, and long-lasting. They also offer body care, home fragrance, and gift sets, making it easy to extend your wedding scent beyond just perfume.

Diptyque 

Diptyque is a French luxury fragrance house known for its artistic and sophisticated compositions, captivating celebrities and beauty lovers alike. Their perfumes, home fragrances, and candles feature complex, memorable notes, with bestsellers like Philosykos, a fresh, woody fig scent, and Do Son, a dreamy blend of creamy white florals. Plus, their commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients makes them a great choice for eco-conscious couples.

Byredo

For a modern and sleek fragrance, Byredo offers minimalist yet design-forward perfumes that range from fresh and clean to deep and musky. Their scents—like Gypsy Water and Mojave Ghost—are elegant yet effortless, making them ideal for couples who want something chic and understated. In addition to perfumes, they provide home fragrances and body care products to help you scent your entire wedding experience.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian 

For timeless elegance, Maison Francis Kurkdjian is a go-to for luxury, high-end fragrances. Their best-selling Baccarat Rouge 540 is a statement scent—sophisticated, rich, and unforgettable. Beyond perfumes, they provide an array of refined home fragrances, perfect for subtly infusing your venue with a touch of luxury.

Additional Tips for Scentscaping Your Wedding

  • Be mindful of guests with allergies or sensitivities. Some people are sensitive to strong scents, so keep it subtle and balanced.
  • Check with your venue about open flames. If they don’t allow candles, opt for diffusers or scented sachets instead.
  • Refresh the scent throughout the day. Fragrances can fade over time, so have a plan for reapplying—whether it’s lighting new candles, refreshing diffusers, or spritzing a light mist in key areas.
  • Incorporate scent into unexpected details. Lightly fragrance your welcome bags, place settings, or even ribbon-tied napkins to create subtle, delightful scent moments throughout the day.
  • Less is more. The goal is to create a subtle, inviting atmosphere—not to overwhelm your guests. Test your fragrance in different areas of the venue to make sure it’s just right.

Ultimately, scentscaping is a personal choice. If you love the idea of tying your wedding memories to a signature scent, it’s definitely worth considering. Whether you go all out with a custom wedding fragrance or simply light a few scented candles, adding a thoughtful scent to your big day can make it even more special and unforgettable.

Image by Lynn Shapiro Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

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