drink reflects the wedding party's tastes. Wedding companies assist couples with the formulation of signature drinks. Many liquor companies are coming out with all sorts of versions of flavored spirits. With signature drinks it is customary to infuse the liquor yourself, therefore creating a unique concoction. The use of fruit-infused liquors is gives creators a wide range of fruits to choose from. Also the vibrant colors of individual fruits add to the drink's personality. The use of herbs to infuse spirits has created a different line of cocktails. These herb-infused drinks tend to be more savory then sweet and lend a different taste to the occasion. The use of Basil, Rosemary, Sage, Tarragon, Thyme and Mint are becoming common in the drink arena. Edible flowers, floral extracts, and floral-based spirits are occasionally incorporated. Edible flowers like Anise Hyssop, Carnation petals, Lavender, Rose petals and Violets will add complex floral or vegetative elements to mixed drinks. Syrups and extracts infused with petals and stems incorporate a more concentrated flavor of the blossoms to cocktails. Floral garnishes infuse the cocktail aroma with a stronger floral note and add beauty to the presentation. Competitions The purpose of the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) is to improve customer-bartender relations and increase the prestige and knowledge of practicing bartenders. They host an annual bartending competition where bartenders are given the task of creating unique drinks. USBG members also participate in many other events and competitions during the year. The World Barista Championship is a premier competition that consists of the winners of the National Barista Championship. These contestants are challenged to make twelve coffee beverages, four of which are signature drinks. Tales of the Cocktail is the largest festival of its kind and is dedicated to the advancement of the craft of the cocktail through education, networking and promotion. The festival is held annually in New Orleans, LA. Dale DeGroff, King Cocktail, is a master mixologist and has been a presenter at this event. References External links Museum of the American Cocktail Cocktails Drinks