
Owning a venue like Montagu Meadows for over 8 years, I have always encouraged couples to be great hosts. The couple sets the tone of the wedding. When planning a wedding in Maryland, it’s essential to incorporate personal and regional touches that reflect the charm of Maryland and its vibrant traditions. Signature cocktails are a fun and personal way to enhance the guest experience while highlighting local flavors. Whether you’re tying the knot at a barn venue like Montagu Meadows in Carroll County or overlooking the scenic Chesapeake, these drink ideas are sure to impress. From the refreshing Orange Crush to the timeless Mojito, here’s a roundup of signature drink recommendations that scream “Maryland wedding magic.”
1. Maryland Orange Crush: A Refreshing Classic
The Orange Crush is synonymous with Maryland summers. Bursting with fresh citrus flavors, it’s the ultimate refreshing drink for warm-weather weddings.
Ingredients:
• Freshly squeezed orange juice
• Vodka
• Triple sec
• A splash of lemon-lime soda
• Crushed ice
Garnish:
An orange wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.
Why It Works:
This drink is a crowd favorite, blending sweet and tangy notes for a cocktail that’s light and easy to sip throughout the day. It’s a perfect addition for Maryland weddings, whether served during cocktail hour or as a featured beverage at your barn venue. It’s refreshing and not too sweet!
2. Mojito: Minty Fresh Perfection

The Mojito is a versatile, refreshing cocktail that pairs well with almost any menu. It’s especially fitting for Maryland weddings because it complements local seafood dishes like crab cakes and oysters.
Ingredients:
• White rum
• Fresh lime juice
• Muddled mint leaves
• Simple syrup
• Club soda
Garnish:
A lime wheel and a mint sprig. Montagu Meadows grows fresh mint. Be sure to ask about it.
Why It Works:
The crisp, clean flavors of a Mojito offer a palate cleanser that balances rich dishes. It’s also an excellent option for summer or outdoor weddings, providing a cooling effect for guests under the sun.
3. Black-Eyed Susan Sangria: A Maryland Tradition
Inspired by the official cocktail of the Preakness Stakes, this fruity sangria is a fresh take on the classic Black-Eyed Susan, Maryland’s state flower. By combining its signature ingredients with white wine, you can create a drink that’s both celebratory and approachable.
Ingredients:
• Orange juice
• Pineapple juice
• Bourbon
• Vodka
• White wine
• A splash of grenadine
Garnish:
Orange slices, cherries, and blackberries.
Why It Works:
This cocktail pays homage to Maryland’s equestrian heritage while adding a fruity twist that’s perfect for large crowds. The vibrant colors also make it visually stunning—perfect for Instagram-worthy moments. Did you know that Montagu Meadows used to be a horse farm?
4. Spiced Old Bay Bloody Mary: A Maryland Must
No Maryland celebration is complete without a nod to Old Bay seasoning. A Spiced Old Bay Bloody Mary is bold, savory, and ideal for brunch receptions or as a “hair of the dog” option for the morning-after festivities.
Ingredients:
• Vodka
• Tomato juice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce
• Old Bay seasoning
• Lemon and lime juice
Garnish:
A celery stalk, a lemon wedge, a jumbo shrimp, bacon and a rim dusted with Old Bay seasoning.
Why It Works:
This cocktail ties directly to Maryland’s love of seafood and spice. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for couples hosting daytime or casual wedding events.
5. Lavender Lemonade Spritzer: A Soft Floral Touch
For those looking for a non-alcoholic signature drink or something with a lighter touch, the Lavender Lemonade Spritzer is a lovely addition.
Ingredients:
• Fresh lemonade
• Lavender-infused simple syrup
• Club soda
• (Optional) Vodka or gin for an alcoholic twist
Garnish:
A sprig of lavender and a lemon slice. Montagu Meadows also has fresh lavender in their gardens.
Why It Works:
This elegant drink offers a refreshing and aromatic experience. Its pastel hue also fits beautifully with rustic or garden wedding themes, making it a versatile choice.
6. Maryland Mule: A Local Spin on a Classic
Take the popular Moscow Mule and give it a Maryland twist with locally distilled spirits and seasonal fruit.
Ingredients:
• Vodka or bourbon (from a Maryland distillery like Sagamore Spirit or Old Line)
• Ginger beer
• Fresh lime juice
• Crushed ice
Garnish:
A lime wedge and fresh blackberries or blueberries.
Why It Works:
The combination of ginger beer and lime is timeless, and adding local spirits makes it a distinctly Maryland drink. Served in copper mugs, this cocktail is both stylish and delicious.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Signature Drinks
1. Highlight Local Ingredients: Incorporate Maryland-made spirits, fresh garnishes, or local fruits like peaches and blackberries.
2. Balance Your Menu: Offer a mix of light, refreshing cocktails like the Mojito and more robust options like the Bloody Mary or Black-Eyed Susan Sangria.
3. Provide Non-Alcoholic Options: Signature mocktails like the Lavender Lemonade Spritzer ensure everyone feels included.
4. Seasonal Selection: Tailor your drinks to the season. For spring and summer weddings, opt for citrusy and fruity cocktails, while autumn celebrations can feature spiced or bourbon-based drinks.

A Toast to Maryland Weddings
Signature cocktails are more than just drinks—they’re a way to set the tone for your celebration and give guests a memorable taste of your special day. From the ever-popular Orange Crush to the bold and flavorful Old Bay Bloody Mary, these Maryland-inspired drinks reflect the beauty, culture, and cuisine of the state.
In addition, below is some expert advice on other

in the United States:
Sarah from the Admiral Room – “The hottest drink trend in Western New York right now is espresso martinis. We can offer them at the bar, a separate martini bar or hand passed as an “after dinner” drink. The couple can decide which option works best for their budget. Sarah from Admiral Room.
Teri from Fernbook Farms – “Don’t choose a drink that will have a bunch of steps. Don’t forget the mocktails …. Make it special for the sober crowd. If it is warm weather choose a refreshing drink without too much alcohol like sangria …. Cooler weather -mulled cider (spike option).”
Karri from Riverbend Estate – “A couple of signature drinks that we’ve had this past year are:
Carmel apple martini or caramel vodka and fresh apple cider garnished with fresh apple slice (Fall).
Crown peach, lemonade, peach simple syrup, garnished with fresh peach slice (summer).
Where our venue is located in Michigan, we are near a ton of different types or orchards.”
Ginger and Paul from SpringHaus Farm Wedding and Event Venue – “Margaritas are a big one here because we have a large Hispanic population and let’s face it, margaritas are just fun. Another favorite is Manhattan which surprised me with the younger crown!”
So, raise a glass and toast to a wedding filled with love, laughter, and the perfect cocktails that keep your guests talking long after the party ends! Salute!
#mdbarnweddingvenue #affordableweddingvenueincarrollcountymd #MontaguMeadows #outdoorweddingvenuewestminstermd #countryweddingvenuewestminstermd #loveislove #Montagumeadowsweddingvenue #bohoweddings #manchestermdweddingvenue #southernpaweddingvenue #howardcountymdweddings #outdoorweddingvenuemd #intimateweddings #marylandelopementsvenue #frederickmdweddingvenue #baltimorecountyweddingvenue #pondviews #rusticelegantweddingvenue #historicweddingvenuemd #weddingvenuebaltimoremd #vowrenewal #dogfriendlyweddingvenue #weddingvenuenearannearundelmd #weddingvenuecarrollcountymd #ourhistoryyourlovestory #weddingvenuenearBaltimore #weddingvenuenearMontgomerycountymd #outdoorweddingvenuehanoverpa #outsideweddingvenueneargettysburgPA #engagementmd #engagementpa #engagementdc #historicweddingmaryland #countryweddingvenuecarrollcountymd
Please visit our website for additional information on our venue.
Website: www.montagumeadows.com
留言