You’ll Want These 21 Signature Cocktails at Your Fall Wedding

Calling all autumn brides! If you’re set on having your nuptials as the crispy leaves fall from the trees, it’s important to honor the seasons changing with a proper drink in hand. Signature cocktails — which are totally trending in the wedding world — are an amazing way to add a new dimension to your special day. Grab your thinking cap and your wedding planner of choice, because the 21 signature cocktails below are *perfect* for your fall wedding. Whether you’re adding some cider to your sangria, some apple to your martini or some pumpkin spice to your boozy hot chocolate, these recipes will brighten your fall soiree. Plus, with one of these in your guests’ hands, they’ll celebrate you two with open arms all night long.

1. Apple Pie Moscow Mule: Refreshing and fizzy, this autumn twist on the classic Moscow Mule will surely dazzle your guests on your big day. For a more modern twist, upgrade this sour and sweet vodka-based blend with real apples and cinnamon sticks. (via The Cookie Rookie)

2. Vanilla Pear Rum Cocktail: Pears are often underrated during the fall months, and this needs to be rectified — so celebrate your autumn nuptials with the beautifully complex flavors of this vanilla-pear cocktail. It’s sweet, herbaceous and incorporates a hint of clementine juice too. (via Thanksgiving)

3. Cranberry Margaritas: No matter the season, it’s always margarita time on our watch. Take your margarita game to a whole new level this season with a shot of cranberry juice. It’s the perfect sipper to combine your autumn wedding and your tropical honeymoon destination. (via Gimme Some Oven)

4. Hard Apple Cider Sangria: Greet your guests with a pitcher of this. Even if you and your love are not wine drinkers, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the spiced fruity flavors of fall that make this sangria the most perfect wedding cocktail there ever was. (via So Good Blog)

5. Boozy Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate: This is one of those two-in-one cocktails you two will be dreaming about all the way to your honeymoon. You can even make a non-boozy option for the little ones. Plus, it has pumpkin in it, so do we really need to say more? (via Minimalist Baker)

6. Apple Cider Bellini: Sometimes a signature drink is all about the garnishes, like this Apple Cider Bellini that uses apple cider, orange liqueur, maple syrup, rosemary sprigs and prosecco. It’s easy, festive and light. Something you could either start the party with or save until dinner. (via Creative Culinary)

7. Pumpkin Pie Shooters: We like to celebrate all the possible ways to add pumpkin to your drinks during the fall. Loaded with the wonderful flavors of pumpkin, vanilla and marshmallow, this fun little drink is just perfect for fall weddings. (via A Night Owl)

8. Apple Cider Mimosas: For those planning a morning wedding, nothing says “brunch” quite like mimosas. With an array of options, choose an apple cider twist that will definitely get your guests up and dancing. Pair with different types of sugar rims for a unique touch. (via The Cookie Rookie)

9. Mulled Wine: Wine lovers, rejoice! Many classic cocktails are beautifully simple, and the mulled wine is no exception. It is seriously the perfect drink to warm you up in the evening after a chilly day out in the cold. For a DIY wedding, just turn on the slow cooker and you’re good to go. (via Gimme Some Oven)

10. Chamomile Honey and Bourbon Cocktail: Lovers of tea love anything tea-flavored, whether it’s cookies, cakes or even ice cream, so we can only imagine their excitement over this ridiculously pretty chamomile cocktail. With many added antioxidants, sipping on this healthy drink will make you two feel energized all day long. (via A Cozy Kitchen)

11. Sparkling Pomegranate Cranberry Sangria: Perfect for pretty much all glam fall and winter weddings, this sangria adds an extra sparkle by swapping gold ol’ wine for some rosé. With a warm and earthy hint of rosemary, this stunning sip is inspired by seasonal flavors. (via Justine Celina)

12. Honey Winter Bourbon Cocktail with Honey Sage Syrup: Despite being super pretty and very autumn-like, this ain’t no sugared-up girly drink. Let your guests enjoy the deep taste of bourbon stirred with an orangey bite and some subtle sweetness with this fabulous drink. (via One Broads Journey)

13. Pear and Thyme Martini: There should always be thyme for a martini at any ultra-glam autumn wedding. You and your beau will feel sophisticated and elegant when sipping one of these sweet yet peppery concoctions. And your guests? They’ll be totally hooked. (via Erin Made This)

14. Caramel Apple Martini: This drink might sound a bit more like dessert for your wedding, but we’re firm believers that if there’s booze in it, it’s a cocktail. Plus, the ingredients are truly simple — Baileys Irish cream, apple schnapps, butterscotch schnapps, whole milk, sugar and cinnamon. Simply delicious! (via HGTV)

15. Apple Bourbon Punch: This festive apple drink packs quite a punch. Just add some really cool martini glasses and it’ll be perfect for your halloween-themed wedding. Your guests will never guess it only has three ingredients: fresh apple cider, mulling spices and bourbon. (via Rustic White Photography / Style Me Pretty)

16. Fig Champagne: Champagne doesn’t have to be limited to toasts. Mix it with your favorite fruit like berries or figs and you’ll get a fresh bounty that’s perfectly in season which all your guests will love. Simple and sweet, it’s a great party cocktail. (via Valley and Co. Lifestyle)

17. Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail: This delicious moonshine drink actually takes like apple pie and will be super smooth and delicious for your guests to sip on throughout the celebration. Plus, the addition of cinnamon simple syrup kicks up the autumn flavors. (via A Little Epicurean)

18. Sparkling Apple Pie Cocktail: If you two lovebirds are more of a serene morning brunch couple, try this apple pie take on the classic wedding toast. For an even more fun twist, rim the glasses with cinnamon sugar. It’ll make it feel extra festive. (via The Kitchen Is My Playground)

19. The Southern Lady: Imagine a late-afternoon stroll in the fall with crisp air, the sound of leaves crackling beneath your feet and a sweet tea in hand; now imagine all that, but with a bit of booze. Your Southern heart will love every bit of this peachy drink for your early-fall soiree. (via Beth Cakes)

20. Toasted Coconut White Russian: Picture this: a mix of Silk Toasted Coconut and Cashew Nutchello, coffee liqueur and ice. This is the perfect drink to spice up your autumn nuptials. Garnish with toasted coconut for that extra je ne sais quoi. (via Taste Love and Nourish)

21. Pumpkin Beer: There are so many different kinds of beers, but there’s no doubt that we’ve all been waiting for “pumpkin season” beer. With so many different kinds, you’re sure to find the perfect pumpkin beer for your big day. Take it one step further and decorate with carved pumpkins. (via Waiting on Martha)

Already have a drink of choice? Tweet us what cocktails you’re serving at your wedding @BritandCo.

With the holidays inching closer, it's time to start thinking about gifts for your nearest and dearest. Whether you want to get them something based on their MBTI type, their zodiac sign, or their favorite hobby, we've got you covered. For the cocktail enthusiast in your life, we’re sharing our list of incredible gifts within every budget, guaranteed to match any style! From swizzle sticks and cocktail napkins that add flair to mixers and infusions for some added flavor, here's what to look for.

You’ll be sure to stay long after the gifts are opened to toast these cocktail gifts!

Anecdote Candles

Anecdote Candles Cocktail Hour Candle

Happy hour starts with this delicious-smelling candle. It carries notes of sparkling champagne, lemon juice, cognac, juniper berries, and tarragon – which all sound like a great build for an actual glass. Cheers!

Amazon

PolyScience Breville Gun Pro Smoke Infuser

This super cool gun adds a delicious smoky flavor to boozy drinks with minimal effort.

Amazon

Angostura Aromatic Cocktail Bitters

Any cocktail lover will know exactly what to do with this.

Amazon

Thoughtfully Cocktails Mix & Match Mini Cocktail Mixer Set

This sampler set is the easiest way for cocktail connoisseurs to try a whole bunch of flavors and create endless yummy drinks right at home!

Anthropologie

Lina Wine Bottle Holder

Full of midcentury style, this wine bottle holder is super on-trend and will complement any oenophile's bar cart beautifully.

Etsy

Cheers Stir Stick Set

Every good cocktail deserves a snazzy swizzle stick, and every bartender deserves a classy set. You can go with the default option (cheers!), or even request a custom design for a personalized look.

Amazon

Edible Glitter

This edible glitter makes any cocktail look absolutely magical.

Amazon

The Art of Mixology

This classic go-to source for mixology wisdom is both useful and pretty to display on the bookshelf.

Amazon

YETI Rambler 20-Ounce Cocktail Shaker

This shaker features double-wall insulation to keep those cocktails nice and oh-so cold.

Seedlip

The Seedlip Trio

Seedlip's non-alcoholic spirits have earned widespread praise for their deliciousness and contribution to booze-free drink making.

Williams Sonoma

Williams Sonoma Signature Muddler

A serious bartender needs a serious muddler. The tool turns fresh herbs and produce into cocktail magic.

Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods On The Rocks Set

Once you’ve got everything to make the perfect whiskey cocktail, you’ll want these granite stones to keep your drink cold (without diluting it).

Amazon

Mocktail Party

If your drink lover in interesting in trying their hand at mocktails, this book is the perfect (and prettiest!) resource for new recipes.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Marina Bar Cart

An aesthetic bar cart is where the magic begins. Upgrade their entire set-up with this sleek pick!

Anthropologie

Ramona Coupe Glasses Set

These gorgeous glasses are great for holding cocktails, mocktails, wines, and even sparkling waters. They're a must-have for anyone with a penchant for serving classy bevvies!

Amazon

The New York Times Essential Book of Cocktails

This informative guide has everything a person would want to know about the art of making cocktails. Plus, it looks so good on a coffee table!

Williams Sonoma

Williams Sonoma Signature Bar Spoon

Save your table flatware for ice cream and pudding — a real cocktail requires a stirrer spoon.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Cocktail Icons 2025 Calendar Tapestry

This artsy tapestry would look so chic hung next to their bar cart.

Target

Blush Cocktail Shaker Set

This colorful set has everything they need to concoct the tastiest cocktails around!

Amazon

The Drunken Botanist

This intriguing book goes back in time to shed light on the plants that make your favorite varieties of booze.

Our Place

Our Place Party Coupes

Give their tablescape a little more pizazz with these funky glasses!

Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods Flavored Simple Syrup Set

This set of four simple syrups includes creative flavors like Cherry Almond and Cucumber Habanero to jazz up your favorite liquors with sophisticated notes.

Amazon

3-Tier Cocktail Seasoning Box

This 3-tier seasoning box keeps all of those cocktail-making essentials in one easy to access place.

Uncommon Goods

Uncommon Goods Personalized Whiskey Barrel

Personalize spirits for your favorite whiskeylover in a special barrel with their initials or name emblazoned on the front!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Saluti Cocktail Napkins

These adorable reusable napkins will instantly cheer up happy hour!

Love this cocktail lover's gift guide? Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more food + drink ideas, plus gift guides for everyone on your list!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.


This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

Admit it: when the weather turns cooler, your diet basically becomes that of Buddy the Elf. That means candy, candy corns, candy canes, and syrup will be your main food groups. Instead of pouring maple syrup all over your spaghetti like he does, try mixing it into your favorite cocktails! Whether they’re bourbon-based or laced with rum, the sticky sweetener, maple syrup, is perfect for fall and winter libations. If you still need convincing, check out the maple cocktails below that are like having a maple tree tapped in your backyard all year long.

A Beautiful Mess

Maple Pumpkin Martini

This cocktail combines two of the most iconic fall flavors for a whole new taste that we love. Not only is it delicious, but it's also non-dairy, which makes for a great option if you or your guests need to opt for coconut or oat milk anyway. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Clean Cuisine

Brandy Lemon Drops

Citrusy and sweet, these brandy-filled maple cocktails are sure to get any holiday party going. (via Clean Cuisine)

Half Baked Harvest

Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz

The bourbon, citrus flavors, and homemade (!) maple syrup in this sip are out-of-this-world delicious, but topping the drink off with champagne really takes it to the next level. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cookie + Kate

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

Give your typical whiskey sour a sweet and spicy twist with cinnamon and a splash of maple syrup. Truth be told, you may not be able to go back to regular simple syrup again. (via Cookie + Kate)

Lemon Blossoms

Cranberry Maple Bourbon Cocktail

This holly-jolly cranberry maple cocktail is perfect for all of your holiday get-togethers. Garnish this drink with sugared cranberries and an orange wedge to make it extra festive. (via Lemon Blossoms)

Crumb

Spiced Maple Manhattan

The maple syrup echoes the sweetness of the rye in this cocktail, and the slight warming spices are truly like autumn in a glass. (via Crumb)

How Sweet Eats

Maple Honeycrisp Margaritas

You shouldn’t have to give up your margarita nights when the seasons change. The next time you go apple picking, whip up these margs afterward to enjoy the fruits of your labor. (via How Sweet Eats)

Earthly Provisions

Blanton's Old Fashioned

With just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes, you can have this strong (and a bit sweet) maple cocktail ready to sip. Cozy weeknights just got a whole lot better! (via Earthly Provisions)

Cookie + Kate

Maple New York Sour

If you’ve never had a New York sour, now is the time. You don’t have to choose between a whiskey sour or a glass of wine, because this drink combines the two for a sweet and tangy nightcap. (via Cookie + Kate)

Cheese and Chocolate

Figgy Maple Bourbon Fizz

This maple cocktail gets its fizz from ginger beer, sweetness from syrup, and a nice kick from the bourbon. (via Cheese and Chocolate)

Gastronom

Cold Brew Bourbon Cocktail

There are times when you need a pick-me-up, but you also want a second to chill. Those moments call for a stout cold brew cocktail that’s spiked with bourbon and sweetened with a hint of maple syrup. (via Gastronom)

Food Fanatic

Maple 43 Cocktail

When a cocktail is garnished with a maple-soaked mini waffle, you happily accept and don’t ask questions. (via Food Fanatic)

Just a Little Bit of Bacon

Pear Bourbon Smash

Winter fruits like pears and apples are perfect to pair with maple syrup and bourbon. This bourbon smash has half of a pear in each glass and is full of whole fruit flavor. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)

Feasting At Home

A Long Winter’s Nap

You’ll feel like a snooze is on the horizon with this aromatic drink. Flavor it with everything from whole allspice pods to pine needles. (via Feasting At Home)

Mixop

Gingerbread Latte

This creamy and frothy latte can be made with alcohol for a yummy caffeinated treat. (via Mixop)

Follow us on Pinterest for more cocktail ideas and fall recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.