Crafting the Perfect Mocktail Menu for All Ages & Dietary Needs

Every detail matters when planning a special event, especially the drinks! While most people focus on their specialty cocktails or making sure they have the right champagne, an unforgettable experience includes inclusive options for all of your guests. Guests who choose not to drink, have dietary restrictions, or simply want a refreshing alternative will appreciate thoughtfully prepared mocktails (non-alcoholic beverages)!

At Andre’s Banquets & Catering, we bring the same attention to detail to our beverage menus as we do to our catering, creating options that add sophistication, style, and inclusivity to your celebration.

Here’s a guide to crafting a great mocktail menu, adding sophistication and fun to your event without the alcohol. Mocktails at weddings have become much more common in the past few years. But why is that?

Crafting the Perfect Mocktail Menu for All Ages & Dietary Needs

The Rise of Mocktails

Over the past five years, mocktails have gone from being an afterthought to a must-have at events. Once limited to simple sodas or juice blends, today’s mocktails are crafted with creativity and intention, much like fine cocktails. This movement has been driven by a growing interest in wellness, sober-curious lifestyles, and inclusive hospitality.

Our professional catering staff embraces this trend, designing mocktails that pair beautifully with our customized menus and reflect the elegance of your event.

A few factors have fueled the cocktail movement:

1. Health & Wellness

Many people are choosing to reduce or remove alcohol from their diets for health reasons, whether it is to improve sleep, boost energy, or support mental wellness. Alcohol-free lifestyles are on the rise, so is the demand for delicious mocktail recipe alternatives!

2. Sober Curiosity

There is a large movement these days called the ‘sober-curious’ movement that encourages people to be more mindful of their drinking habits. Usually, it doesn’t mean abstaining completely, but rather seeking intentional, enjoyable mixed drinks without alcohol involved.

3. Inclusivity

One of the best ways to make your event stand out and be recognized for your hosting abilities is to create an environment where every guest feels welcomed. Booze-free/non-traditional cocktails are an easy way to ensure that everyone can partake in the celebration and are a clear sign that everyone is welcome.

4. Cultivating Culinary Creativity

Even bartenders and catering companies are leaning into the mocktail trend and using it as a catalyst for innovation. Mocktails can now include botanical syrups, infused waters, or adaptogens – today’s mocktails are anything but boring!

A Shift in the Industry

Mocktails have become a standard part of sophisticated drink menus. Go to many high-end restaurants or luxury hotels these days, and their menu will have a section with delicious, must-try mocktails. Many venues are investing in ‘dry bars’ and zero-proof liquor to make delicious drinks that can rival the traditional bar offerings. The bottom line? Mocktails are no longer the fallback; they’re the feature.

Elements of a Show-Stopping Mocktail Menu

When designing a mocktail selection for your event, focus on these essentials:

1. Flavor Variety

Not everyone has the same taste, so try to include different flavors like:

Fruity & Sweet (e.g. Strawberry Basil Spritz)
Citrusy & Tart (e.g. Sparkling Grapefruit Rosemary)
Herbal & Earthy (e.g. Mint Cucumber Cooler)
Creamy & Decadent (e.g. Coconut Chai Fizz)
Spicy or Bold (e.g. Jalapeño Pineapple Smash)

2. Seasonal Ingredients

Try to use fresh, in-season ingredients to enhance flavor and reduce your costs – use berries in the summer, apples in the fall, citrus in the winter, and herbs in the spring. These will not only help with your cost, but they will look stunning in glassware.

3. Visual Appeal

You want your mocktail to stand out just as much as your cocktails, so consider using elegant glassware, colorful garnishes (edible flowers or glitter or herbs), and fun additions like flavored ice cubes or glowing stirrers.

4. Dietary Flexibility

Depending on your guest list, you may want to think about ensuring that your menu includes options for: sugar-free, vegan/dairy-free, nut-free, and/or caffeine-free for kids

Sample Mocktail Menu for Inclusive Events

Here’s a sample mocktail menu that’s big on flavor and mindful of the elements listed above:

Sunset Citrus Fizz: orange juice, lime juice, club soda, splash of grenadine
Cucumber Mint Cooler: fresh cucumber juice, fresh mint leaves, lemon, agave, sparkling water, a cucumber slice as a garnishVegan, sugar-free option
Berry Basil Smash: muddled mixed berries, basil, lemon juice, honey, club sodaGluten-free, can add as much or as little sugar as you would like
Golden Glow Elixir: turmeric, ginger, lemon, maple syrup, sparkling waterAnti-inflammatory, caffeine-free
Spicy Pineapple Mojito: pineapple juice, jalapeño, mint, lime, seltzerBold and tropical

Mocktail Tips and Tricks

1. Work with Your Caterer or Venue

Professional caterers (like ours!) can help execute a customized mocktail menu to match your event theme, colors, and vibe. Our skilled bartenders are happy to help create delicious mocktails with a high-end presentation.

2. Use Signature Names

Give your drinks personality with names that reflect your story. Examples of these could be: “Blissfully Bubbly” for a wedding or a “Garden Gala Fizz” for a summer party. You could also have one for the bride and one for the groom – Bride: “Blushing Bride” or “Mint to Be” and Groom: “The Main Squeeze” or “Tied the Knot”

A Toast to Inclusivity & Style

Your event should reflect your values and guest list. That means thinking beyond the cocktails and going for the mocktails! A beautifully crafted mocktail is more than just a non-alcoholic alternative; it is an experience. It is hospitality. And it is a thoughtful way to say, “We’re glad you are here.”

Why Choose Our Catering Services

Choosing the right catering partner makes all the difference in creating a stress-free and memorable celebration. At Andre’s Banquets & Catering, our focus is on delivering both exceptional cuisine and reliable service that reflect the importance of your event.

Full-Service Experience

Our catering team handles every detail, from menu planning and setup to professional service and cleanup. With buffet options, plated meals, and creative beverage stations, we provide a seamless dining experience designed to let you relax and enjoy your celebration.

Customized Menus

We believe no two events are the same. That’s why our catering services in St. Louis include fully customizable menus tailored to your tastes, budget, and dietary needs. Whether you prefer gourmet entrées, light hors d’oeuvres, or themed menus, our chefs create a spread that fits your vision.

Local Expertise

With decades of experience as a local catering team, we understand what it takes to make events in St. Louis truly special. Our strong relationships with venues, vendors, and clients allow us to deliver a smooth and stress-free process from start to finish.

At Andre’s, we specialize in curated catering and bar services that will delight every guest. Whether you are planning a dry wedding, want to keep it kid-friendly, or just want to have an inclusive drink, our team is here to help!

Andre’s Banquet & Catering | St. Louis, MO

André’s Banquet & Catering provides elegant venues in St. Louis that complement any wedding aesthetic, from floral-forward designs to minimalist chic celebrations.

At Andre’s, we have several amazing venues in addition to being a full-service catering company. Along with our full-service catering, packages typically include a full buffet meal, a 4-hour open bar, linen tablecloths, chair covers, centerpieces, personnel, as well as an onsite coordinator. We are a one-stop shop facility that can offer guidance in planning and organizing your day. Andre coordinates with several different vendors to make your planning process painless!