I recently received this question from a planning bride:

Hi Arina,
I'm planning a wedding for next year and I'm desperate to incorporate something unique into the wedding theme. It seems like everyone I know is getting married this summer and I've been lucky to get a lot of inspiration from their weddings. One thing I can't seem to figure out is a unique idea for my wedding. It seems like I've seen it all. Is there anything I can do to have my friends remember my reception as having something different? Can you help me out? Stacy (Seattle)

Stacy, I feel your pain. It does seem like coming up with a unique idea is challenging in today's "been there, done that" wedding planning world. But, I have an idea that I think you will appreciate -- creating your own personal signature drink!

James Bond isn't the only one who can dub a drink his own personal trademark -- so can everyone else! Developing a signature drink is not as difficult as it may seem. All it takes is some foresight and a Friday or Saturday night... or any night, for that matter.

The first step is for you and your fiancé to sit down and think about your favorite beverages and whether or not you would like your signature drink to contain alcohol. Once you decide, start playing around with ingredients. For instance, throw some raspberry sorbet, club soda, raspberry juice, and ice into the blender, top off with a mint leaf and YUM, you'll love the result! Call it the "Stacy's and Mike's Raspberry Hug" and mention it in your menu cards or leave notes on everyone's place-setting. Leave a sign at the bar for the guests saying something like "Everybody needs a hug, Stacy's and Mike's Raspberry Hug, that is!". Have the bartenders mention it to the guests as they approach the bar and the next thing you know, you've created something unique for your wedding.

If coming up with drink concoctions scares you, just consider adding a unique ingredient or unusual garnishes to an already existing drink. Even something as simple as adding a mint leaf to all your water glasses can be a trademark for your wedding. One word of advice -- signature drinks shouldn't be complicated. A few key ingredients and an off-beat garnish will do the trick.

Do you have a dilemma regarding your wedding? E-mail us at advice@wedding-club.com.