How to Create Your Own Signature Cocktail

The concept of his-and-hers cocktails is a refreshing way to spice up the social hour part of the wedding. It's also an entertaining way to express your personalities and personal likes to your wedding guests. The hindrance is that it requires a little creativity and effort on your part; not only do you need to come up with a cocktail and name, but you need to hire an experienced bartender who knows how to mix a good drink. There is a difference between a bartender who knows how to make a rum and Coke, and a bartender who knows how to create a craft cocktail.

Most couples would love to serve a signature cocktail or two, but are unsure of how to go about it. After all, most of us are limited in knowledge when it comes to cocktail creation—although I will admit I sure gave it the old college try back in the day (in bartender words, I was a bit heavy handed on the pour). Some things really are just best left to the professionals. With that said, we consulted with a mixologist for a little guidance on how to create a truly authentic (and delicious) signature cocktail that goes far beyond the typical bar drink.

With a little research, I was led to Plat 99 Mixology Lounge at The Alexander Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. Plat 99 graces Indianapolis with its swanky atmosphere and well-known reputation for crafting out-of-this-world cocktails by renowned mixologists. It was here that I discovered that couples could actually take a mixology class that serves inventive cocktails and plenty of ideas for personalization. The Pour and Play class gives participants a brief overview of the history behind the modern craft cocktail movement. It also shows participants how to create a cocktail using bartender tools and later, allows participants to compete in groups to craft their own original cocktail. There is no better place than to start here for a lesson in finding your signature cocktail—plus, it's an out-of-the-box (err...bottle) date night idea!

I spoke with Catering Sales Manager Caroline Myers and Bar Manager Will Mohring at The Alexander about what their venue and mixology class has to offer couples in the beverage department.

WeddingDay: What do you want people to understand about mixology?

Will Mohring: A skilled mixologist balances notes of sweet, bitter, sour and spicy with fresh or seasonal ingredients, like an artist uses complementary elements in a visual composition. Even though the term “mixology” has been around since the late 1800s, the renaissance of the cocktail has made it front and center again. Mixology has always been part of a bartender's job description. The personalization or customization of cocktails for specific audiences is where today's bartenders really shine.

WeddingDay: What kinds of ingredients does your pantry carry for people to experiment with?

Will Mohring: The base spirit for the evening is often an Indiana-produced spirit such as bourbon, vodka or gin. The pantry is stocked with all the current seasonal produce being used in the bar. Examples include an array of fresh fruit and vegetables, herbs, and spices. Aromatic bitters, house-made syrups, liqueurs and cordials are also made available.

WeddingDay: Where should couples start when they decided they want to incorporate signature cocktails into their wedding? How can they make it really personal?

Will Mohring: Choosing a venue with a strong background in mastering the art of the cocktail is always the first place to start! Couples should consider identifying certain flavor profiles they have enjoyed together or cocktails that have been their “go to” as inspiration. Our mixologists can hand-craft customized cocktails for weddings that are always sure to impress guests.

WeddingDay: If a couple wants to attend a Pour and Play class, how can you help them create their personal wedding cocktail?

Will Mohring: It's a great introduction to creating an original cocktail. It exposes the participants to the many elements involved in the process. For example, the number of ingredients or flavor profiles that are trying to be harmonized in the final product, the time it takes to create one drink, and whether it could be done on a larger scale.

WeddingDay: What are some of your most popular house-made cocktails?

Will Mohring:  The Delta Rose has hibiscus-infused still moon special reserve moonshine, fruit lab jasmine liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup and angostura bitters. Also, the Power of Love cocktail has sage-infused aylesbury vodka, lime juice, lavender syrup, green chartreuse and sf green carthusian bitters. Both of these are very popular and hand-crafted by our mixologists!

Couples who book The Alexander for their wedding venue will have an added benefit of getting to work with Wedding Sales Manager Caroline Myers who will assist them in the planning process. Part of that process includes a complimentary consultation in which Caroline will help them to determine their tastes and flavor profiles. Then Will steps in to create custom cocktails that suit their personalities while keeping their preferences in mind. And here's the best part: for couples who book The Alexander for their wedding, they can add a live, interactive mixology bar to their reception. Guests can taste different options and learn how their drinks are being created. Entertaining while cocktailing is the best of both worlds!

For more information on Plat 99, please contact Will Mohring.

For more information on weddings or events at The Alexander, please contact Caroline Myers.

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