Our latest Ask Emmaline question couldn’t have come at a better time! With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, bride-to-be Ashlee writes us with this question. “I’m having an outdoor wedding and I want to know how to keep drinks cold. I’m serving wine and would like guests to help themselves. Any tips?” Absolutely — our favorite way to keep drinks cold at wedding receptions is with over-sized galvanized tubs and tons of ice. Whether you’re chilling wine, champagne, beer, or soda bottles, a tub is the way to go — plus, guests can help themselves.

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How to Keep Drinks Cold at a Wedding

Here’s how to keep drinks cold at a wedding:

• Pre-chill your drinks, if possible; cold drinks stay colder for longer periods of time
• Keep drinks in galvanized tubs of ice in shade (or away from direct sunlight); add drinks first, then ice as cold air moves downward
• If hiring a bartender, ask him or her to keep an eye on the ice levels and replenish as needed

Also, it’s a good idea to label the tubs if you’re offering a variety of beverages (so guests know what’s what).

You’ll also want to have on hand:

• Plenty of glassware or cups like this
• Any drink accessories (can coolers, beverage napkins, stirrers, etc.)

• Bottle openers, if needed (and a catcher for bottle tops, if having beer or soda in bottles)

Be sure to take a peek at these mason jar drinking glasses for added inspiration.

Hope it helps!

xo
Emma