As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, there's something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm, steamy drink. Whether it's a velvety hot chocolate, a spiced cider, or a rich cup of coffee, the right beverage has a way of bringing people together and creating a sense of comfort. At Sugar & Ice, we believe that the perfect drink can make any fall or winter gathering unforgettable. So, as the season invites us to cozy up and celebrate, let's dive into why hot beverages are the ultimate must-have for your next event.
Did you know? Drinking hot beverages does have some scientific benefits, especially in cooler weather:
Temperature Regulation: Surprisingly, a hot drink can help your body adjust to cold temperatures. When you drink something warm, it activates thermoreceptors in your mouth and throat, signaling to your body that it need to cool down. This reaction can trigger sweating and help your body stabilize temperature - useful in chilly conditions when the environment won't actually lead to much sweating.
Improved Circulation: The warmth from a hot drink causes blood vessels to dilate, promoting better circulation. This can make your hands and feet feel warmer, which is especially comforting in the winter.
Mood Boosting: There's also a psychological benefit. Studies suggest that holding a warm drink can create feelings of comfort and happiness, likely because the warmth mimics physical warmth, which is often associated with positive emotions and even social warmth.
Why Hot Beverages May Evoke a Sense of Nostalgia
How many childhood characters can you name that feature a steamy cup of cocoa? Here are some of my favorite characters who are known for their love of cocoa. Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter from the Chronicles of Narnia - After entering the magical world of Narnia, the Pevensie siblings are treated to a warm, comforting cup of hot cocoa by Mr. Beaver, bringing a sense of safety and coziness in the snowy wonderland. My next favorite characters would be Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger in the Three Broomsticks! But they are drinking hot butter beer!
I would love to hear about your favorite characters! Reply to this email and I'll share your response on an upcoming Instagram post!
How to make a hot cocoa bar for your next party
Pick and make your favorite hot cocoa mix and pour into a stainless steal insulated container of choice. I prefer to use AirPots (pictured above). They keep beverages warm for hours but if you don't have one you can use a crock pot to keep your cocoa steamy.
Next, your are going to put out paper cups for your guests to pour their cocoa in. (Yes, your can use styrofoam but it's better for the environment to use recyclable paper. PLUS, you can find festive cup designs on Amazon.)
Don't let your hot cocoa bar stop with just cocoa in a cup! Add some toppings and garnishments to send it to the next level. My favorites are candy canes, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. But you can also provide whipped cream toppings, caramel drizzle and toffee crunch! Fill a few of your extra cups or small bowls with toppings. I have these really cute ceramic containers from Hobby Lobby. (pictured above)
Make sure to put napkins on the table because someone will always over pour or spill and make a mess.
Then grab some festive decor pieces to place throughout the table.
Don't want to do it yourself - It's not too late
Last-minute events typically don't start as last-minute events. They start as great ideas and good intentions and then life gets busy! You may look at this and think that you could totally do it but you just don't have the time now. So, whether it crept up on you or you just happen to have a day open up for an event...we are here for you! Our packages are all-inclusive, perfect for you to check it off your box and move on to something else. We will give your guests all the warm and fuzzies with minimal hassle.
Due to last minute events being so popular in the fall and winter, we book up quickly. So now is the perfect time to plan a festive and warm gathering! Our packages start at $150 per hour.
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