The difference between an Italian aperitivo and an American-style cocktail hour

Having a cocktail bar at a wedding is often considered a must-have. Guests may be offered drinks before the ceremony, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere from the moment they arrive. Italian weddings usually don’t include an open bar this early in the day, keeping the focus on the couple and their vows. After the ceremony, a traditional Italian aperitivo provides a natural transition from the ceremony to the reception.

The newlyweds often step away with their photographer to capture their wedding portraits in a scenic setting, while guests can enjoy their cocktails, such as Aperol Spritz, Campari Spritz, or a refreshing Hugo accompanied by an elegant selection of finger foods and small bites. It is a relaxed and convivial moment, with music, conversation, and the beauty of a Tuscan wedding venue providing the perfect backdrop. Later in the evening, after dinner, the bar can reopen for cocktails as the celebration moves into the dancing and party portion of the night.

What to serve at a cocktail hour for a destination wedding in Tuscany?

In Tuscany, cocktail hour can take the form of a traditional Italian aperitivo. Popular aperitivo drinks include spritzes, prosecco, local wines, and classic Italian liqueurs, while cocktails such as an Espresso Martini can be incorporated for a more contemporary touch. This is a special moment to let your guests enjoy Italian wedding food in a relaxed manner, before guests take their seats for dinner. Little tables, sofas and benches scattered around the gardens or courtyard allow for easy mingling and chatting between guests. Finger foods can be presented buffet-style or passed by servers. Small arancini, bite-sized pizzas, Tuscan cured meats and cheeses, olives, crostini, and other canapés are all wonderful choices for this part of the reception. Dinner can then unfold into a more elaborate culinary experience.

How to personalize your Italian wedding aperitivo buffet

Every detail of your wedding can be personalized to reflect your vision, your style and your story as a couple. With a carefully selected network of trusted vendors and luxury wedding venues, we can create the Italian aperitivo of your dreams and a cocktail hour that’s truly inspired by you. Custom signature cocktails inspired by the couple and little twists to traditional recipes can create a memorable experience for your guests, giving them a night they will cherish forever. Sipping a signature cocktail in the soft light of a Tuscan sunset is a magical moment.

What is the best setting for a cocktail hour in Tuscany?

A traditional Italian aperitivo typically takes place between the ceremony and dinner, so most of the time it will take place at sunset. A magnificent historic villa, a panoramic view over the Tuscan hills or a poolside aperitivo buffet offer an elegant setting as well as beautiful opportunities for wedding photography. Once the newlyweds have finished their portraits, they can rejoin their guests’ company. The celebration can transition seamlessly into dinner, perhaps with a final round of drinks or a special bottle of Champagne.

Why does the cocktail bar usually close during dinner in Italy?

In Italy, meals are traditionally treated as an integral part of the celebration, with particular attention paid to the food and wine served at the table. Traditionally, cocktails are less commonly served alongside a formal lunch or dinner, when wine tends to take center stage. If you are planning a vineyard wedding, you may have the opportunity to enjoy wines produced by the estate alongside your meal. And even in different venues, white and red wines can be carefully paired with each course to showcase the best of Italian cuisine. After the cake cutting, the cocktail bar can reopen as the celebration transitions into dancing and late-night festivities.

When does cocktail hour take place at a Tuscany destination wedding?

If you want to incorporate Italian food and beverage traditions into your Tuscan destination wedding, the timeline might look something like this.

1. Guests may be welcomed with a refreshing drink as they arrive at the venue.
2. During the ceremony, drinks are typically set aside so that guests can focus on the couple and their vows.
3. After the ceremony, an Italian-style aperitivo will take place, with signature cocktails and delicious finger food.
4. At dinner, wine traditionally takes center stage, particularly in a region such as Tuscany. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available throughout dinner.
5. After dinner, the cocktail bar can reopen as the celebration moves into the dancing and party portion of the evening. 

Ultimately, your wedding should reflect your vision and your traditions, whether that means adapting the drinks menu to your cultural traditions, personal preferences, or religious requirements. Work with your wedding planner to create a reception that feels personal, elegant, and entirely your own.