Raising the Bar: The Unique Beverage Experiences for Your Wedding at Zion Springs

We offer an open bar as it is the most economical for the bride and groom.  We have occasionally had couples enquire about a cash bar, but it involves the added stress of monitoring and managing the bar expenses, followed by the task of reconciling and settling bills after the wedding. 

Our bartenders are there for the whole weekend.  They first connect with the couples at the Dream Dinner Tasting.  They develop relationships with the guests right away from the rehearsal dinner, through the welcome party, and to the reception.  There's a continuity;  they know what you're drinking, and they're responsive to you, as well as personalizing your experience. They're on the Zion team, and that's a huge part of making your event special. 

Tailoring to Your Tastes - Personalizing Your Wedding Beverages

Every couple is unique, and so are their beverage preferences. Zion Springs excels in accommodating special requests, ensuring that even the most distinct tastes are reflected in your beverage selection.

Q? How does Zion Springs handle special requests for beverages that may not be included in the standard bar package?

Anna: Special requests are what we are good at. So, for example, this past weekend, a bride requested a Fall Sangria. We're happy to accommodate them, and it’s at no extra charge. The only time there's an upcharge would be if they wanted something extravagant, like a hibiscus flower on every cocktail. 

Q? Are there any unique or signature drinks that Zion Springs offers for wedding celebrations?

Anna: The smoky old fashioned is pretty cool because we have a smoke kit where guests can choose different kinds of wood, such as cherry or oak. Espresso Martinis are very popular right now, and we can do that with specialty rimmers and garnishes. Our barkeeper makes a green tea cocktail, it looks like green tea but is made with Peach Schnapps, Sprite, Sour Mix, and Whisky. Other interesting and flavorful specialty cocktails are a Gin Gimlet, a Sawyer, or a Spicy Margarita. Recently, a couple added a coin garnish with a photograph of them!

Q? Can the bar menu be customized to reflect the couple’s personal tastes or wedding theme?

Anna: In the bar package, there are the two red wine varietals, and two white wine varietals, along with the selection of two kegs. Couples select what they want from our extensive list, and have the option to trade out champagne for rosé. Also, if they want a champagne toast, we do that at the reception. Sometimes, they'll name their signature drinks after their dog, so we’ll have The Sadie, or Boo The Cat listed on the bar menu. It’s whimsical and a fun personalized touch. 

Q? What options are available for non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails?

Anna: We offer the option of non-alcoholic beverages, and we can work with the couple to create some interesting mocktails. Recently, we made a  lavender lemonade, and we also had an elderberry syrup mocktail with a coin of lemon and a lavender spear as a garnish.  We present them in a way that is appealing.  We have these beautiful copper mugs for the mules and make a thing about having the right glass for the right cocktail, too. It adds a little twist, whether it's a pint or Pilsner glass, a martini, coupe, rocks, or wine glass to create that  well-crafted and visually appealing beverage

Q? What is the process for selecting wines, and how does Zion Springs assist with pairing wines with the wedding menu?

Anna: The couple chooses two red varietals, two white varietals, a rosé and/or champagne. We provide a list to choose from, and they can choose which brands they want.  We make suggestions of what wines to pair with the meals, so I may say, “Okay, you're having chicken piccata and beef tenderloin. Why don't we do a Pinot Noir and a Cabernet Sauvignon for the red?” And then, depending on the season, I’ll suggest the heavier whites, like an oaked Chardonnay when it's cold out, and then in summer, I'll recommend a Sauvignon Blanc. So it depends on the season, and the food pairingsl. The beer is totally up to them; what they like and what is their preference. 

If the couple asks for something not on our list we try our best to get it. Sometimes brides and grooms want a local wine, and we can do that. So, for example, last weekend, they wanted a specialty beer from Bike Lane Brewery, where this couple always went when they were dating. So I got all of the beer from that brewing company. We try hard to get our guests what they would like if it’s available. 

We also have a limited edition hard cider we made called ZionSprings Holy Water, which is divine in the fall.  

While providing a diverse range of beverages, our commitment to responsible service remains paramount.