Let’s be honest: the phrase “open bar” can sound intimidating and expensive. If you’re trying to stick to a budget, you might wonder if it’s even a realistic option for your event. The great news is that you don’t have to choose between being a generous host and being financially responsible. There are many flexible and affordable ways to provide drinks for your guests without breaking the bank. From limited bars featuring a few select spirits to consumption-based pricing, modern open bar packages are designed to fit a variety of price points. In this article, we’ll break down all the options, explain how pricing works, and give you the tools to choose a package that feels generous to your guests and kind to your wallet.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a Package That Fits Your Party’s Vibe: Your open bar should match your event’s style and your guests’ tastes. Whether you opt for a full bar, a simple beer and wine selection, or a few signature cocktails, the right choice sets the perfect tone for your celebration.
- Understand the Full Cost Upfront: Your final price depends on more than just the alcohol. Factor in your guest count, event duration, and any service fees or gratuity. Use an alcohol calculator for a solid estimate and get a detailed quote to prevent any budget surprises.
- Let the Pros Handle the Details: Hiring a professional bartending service is an investment in a stress-free event. They manage the crucial legal aspects like insurance and permits and ensure responsible service, so you can relax and enjoy the party with your guests.
What Is an Open Bar Package?
If you’ve ever been to a wedding or company party where the drinks were free-flowing and you didn’t have to pull out your wallet once, you’ve experienced an open bar. Simply put, an open bar package is a service where the event host pays for all the alcoholic beverages their guests enjoy. It’s a classic gesture of hospitality that tells your guests to relax, have a great time, and leave the tab to you. This approach creates a seamless and celebratory atmosphere, ensuring no one has to worry about the cost of a drink or fumbling with cash at the bar, which keeps the party’s energy high.
Choosing an open bar is one of the most popular ways to handle drinks for a private event, and for good reason. It simplifies the experience for everyone involved. For guests, it’s a generous treat that makes them feel truly taken care of. For you, the host, it means you can settle the cost upfront, making budgeting more predictable and avoiding any surprise expenses later. Instead of dealing with countless individual transactions, you arrange a single plan with your bartending service. This allows the bartenders to focus on what they do best: crafting delicious drinks and providing excellent service, ensuring your party runs smoothly from the first toast to the last call.
How Does an Open Bar Work?
So, how does this all come together? Most often, an open bar works on a per-person, per-hour basis. You pay a flat rate for each guest for a set duration, and they can enjoy unlimited drinks from the agreed-upon menu. Another popular option is a consumption-based bar, where you pay for the exact amount of alcohol consumed. This can be a great choice if you have a crowd with lighter drinkers. The key is flexibility; you can choose from various bartending packages to find a structure that fits your specific event, guest list, and budget perfectly.
What’s Included in a Package?
A standard open bar package is designed to cover all the bases. You can typically expect a solid selection of beer and wine choices to please different palates. It will also include a range of essential liquors like vodka, whiskey, gin, and rum. Of course, no bar is complete without the mixers, so things like soda, juice, and basic garnishes are also part of the deal. If you want to add a more personal flair, you can often upgrade to premium spirits or work with your bartenders to create a menu of unique signature cocktails that reflect the theme of your event.
Exploring Open Bar Package Options
When you decide to host an open bar, you’re making a wonderful gesture for your guests, ensuring they can relax and enjoy themselves without worrying about their wallets. But the term “open bar” covers a lot of ground. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; instead, it’s a flexible concept with several package types, each offering a different selection of drinks at various price points. Understanding these options is the first step to finding the perfect fit for your event’s style, your guests’ tastes, and your budget. The right choice can set the entire tone for your celebration, whether it’s a sophisticated corporate event or a laid-back wedding reception. It also helps you manage your spending effectively, so there are no surprises when the final bill arrives. Think of it as curating an experience. Do you want the classic, all-inclusive feel of a full bar, or the personal touch of a few signature cocktails? From a bar stocked with every essential spirit to a simple and elegant beer and wine selection, there’s a package that will make your party a hit. Let’s walk through the most common choices so you can feel confident in your decision.
The Full Open Bar
Think of the full open bar as the dependable classic. This package is designed to satisfy nearly everyone by offering a comprehensive selection of drinks. It typically includes a few popular beer and wine choices, along with all the essential liquors needed for standard cocktails: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey. This setup ensures your bartender can mix up favorites like a Gin & Tonic, a Rum and Coke, or a simple Vodka Soda. It’s a straightforward, crowd-pleasing choice that removes any guesswork and guarantees your guests can enjoy their go-to drink throughout the event.
The Limited Open Bar
A limited open bar is a smart way to offer cocktails while keeping a closer eye on your budget. This option still provides a great experience but with a more curated selection. You’ll typically offer beer and wine, plus a select few types of liquor instead of the full range. For example, you might choose to serve just vodka and whiskey if you know those are the most popular spirits among your guests. This approach simplifies the bar menu, streamlines service, and can be a more cost-effective way to provide mixed drinks without stocking every possible spirit.
The Premium Open Bar
If you want to create a truly high-end experience, the premium open bar is the way to go. This package includes everything in a full bar but features top-shelf liquor brands, a wider selection of craft beers, and higher-quality wines. It’s an excellent choice for formal weddings, corporate galas, or any event where you want to impress your guests and give them the best of the best. A premium bar signals a level of luxury and care, ensuring everyone enjoys a carefree, sophisticated party. You can explore different bartending packages to see how premium brands can enhance your event.
Beer and Wine Only
Sometimes, simplicity is key. A beer and wine bar is a popular and often more budget-friendly choice that still creates a festive and celebratory atmosphere. This package is perfect for daytime events, casual get-togethers, or crowds that aren’t heavy liquor drinkers. You can still offer a great variety by selecting a mix of light and dark beers, along with red, white, and rosé wines to suit different palates. It’s an elegant and simple solution that ensures your guests have wonderful options without the complexity or cost of a full liquor bar.
Signature Cocktails Only
For a fun and personal touch, consider offering a menu of signature cocktails. Instead of a full range of spirits, you’ll feature two or three unique, pre-selected cocktails, often alongside beer and wine. This is a fantastic way to tie the bar into your event’s theme or share a piece of your story—think “his and hers” cocktails at a wedding or a branded drink at a corporate launch. It adds a memorable element to your party and can also help manage costs and speed up service, as bartenders can prepare these specific drinks efficiently. Check out some signature cocktails for inspiration.
Pay-Per-Drink (Consumption Bar)
A consumption bar is another type of open bar, but you’re billed differently. Instead of paying a flat rate per person, you pay for the exact number of drinks your guests consume. For your guests, the experience is the same—they don’t pay for anything. This option can be a great value if your guests are light drinkers, but it can also be a gamble, as costs can climb quickly at a party with heavy drinkers. It offers a way to control your budget by only paying for what’s used, making it a flexible choice for events where you’re unsure about the total consumption.
How Much Does an Open Bar Cost?
Let’s talk numbers. The cost of an open bar is one of the biggest questions when planning any event, and for good reason. The price can vary widely, but you can generally expect to pay somewhere between $15 to $60 per person. Most standard packages offering beer, wine, and well drinks fall into the $25 to $40 per person range. If you’re dreaming of top-shelf liquor or a menu of custom signature cocktails, that price will naturally climb.
This range gives you a starting point, but the final number on your invoice depends on several key factors. The type of alcohol you serve, the length of your event, and your total guest count all play a major role in the final cost. Think of it less as a fixed price and more as a flexible budget that you can adjust based on your priorities. To get a more personalized estimate for your party, you can use a handy alcohol calculator to figure out how much you’ll need to buy. Understanding the variables below will help you build a bar package that fits your vision and your budget perfectly.
What Affects the Price?
Several moving parts determine the final cost of your open bar. First, the quality of the alcohol is a big one. A bar stocked with well liquors will be much more budget-friendly than one featuring premium, top-shelf brands. Beyond the booze itself, you need to consider service costs. It’s important to ask whether gratuity for the bartenders is included in the package or if they’ll have a tip jar out. Some venues also structure their bar packages with a minimum spend, especially for popular dates, so be sure to clarify that upfront. Our bartending packages are designed to be transparent, so you always know exactly what you’re paying for.
Per Person vs. Per Drink Pricing
You’ll typically see two main pricing models for an open bar: per person or per drink. A per-person package means you pay a flat rate for each guest, giving them unlimited access for a set number of hours. This is straightforward and great for budgeting. The other option is a consumption bar, where you pay for what’s actually consumed. This can be a cost-saver if your guests are light drinkers, but it can also be unpredictable. There are also creative ways to plan an open bar, like offering drink tickets to control consumption while still treating your guests. The right choice depends on your crowd and your comfort with budget variability.
How Guest Count and Event Length Impact Cost
The two biggest factors that will influence your open bar cost are the number of guests you invite and how long the party lasts. A good rule of thumb is to assume each guest will have about one drink per hour. So, a four-hour reception for 100 people will require a lot more alcohol than a two-hour cocktail party for 50. Most professional services stock an open bar based on this formula. That’s why getting a firm RSVP list is so important before you finalize your bar package. The more accurate your headcount, the more precise your quote will be, ensuring you have just the right amount of everything for your event.
How to Choose the Right Open Bar Package
Picking the right open bar package feels like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s all about finding the sweet spot between what your guests will love, the atmosphere you want to create, and what your budget allows. Think of it less as a test and more as an opportunity to add a personal touch to your event. By considering a few key factors, you can confidently select a package that keeps the drinks flowing and the good times rolling, without any morning-after financial regrets.
Consider Your Guests and Their Preferences
You know your guests best. Are they a wine-and-cheese crowd, or will they be looking for craft beer and classic cocktails? Take a moment to think about their general preferences. Most open bar packages include a solid selection of beer, wine, and essential liquors like vodka, whiskey, and gin. If your friends are big tequila fans or you know your family loves a good bourbon, you might look for a package that highlights those spirits. Understanding your guests’ tastes helps you decide if a standard selection is perfect or if you should explore more specialized bartending packages to make everyone feel catered to.
Match the Bar to Your Event’s Vibe
The bar service is a huge part of your event’s overall atmosphere. Are you hosting an elegant, black-tie wedding or a relaxed corporate happy hour? A full open bar sends a clear message of celebration and generosity, ensuring your guests can enjoy themselves without worrying about costs. For a more low-key or daytime event, a simple beer and wine package might be all you need. You could also feature a few signature cocktails that reflect your personality or brand. The goal is to choose an option that complements the style and energy of your gathering.
Check Your Venue’s Rules
Before you book any bartending service, it’s crucial to talk to your venue. Every location has its own set of rules regarding alcohol. Some may require you to use their in-house service, while others allow outside vendors as long as they have the proper licensing and liability insurance. It’s also smart to ask about their policy on gratuity. Find out if a service charge is automatically included or if your bartenders will have a tip jar. Getting clarity on these details upfront prevents any surprises and ensures a smooth working relationship between your venue and your bartending team.
Stick to Your Budget
Let’s talk numbers. One of the biggest mistakes in event planning is not setting a clear budget for the bar. Before you start looking at options, decide how much you’re comfortable spending. This will immediately help you narrow down your choices. A per-person package offers predictable costs, while a consumption bar can be a gamble. Using an alcohol calculator can give you a realistic estimate of what you’ll need, helping you avoid overspending. Remember, a fantastic guest experience is possible at any price point—it’s all about smart planning.
How to Calculate Your Drink Needs
Figuring out exactly how much alcohol you’ll need for an event can feel like a guessing game, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple guidelines, you can create a solid estimate that ensures your bar is well-stocked and your budget stays on track. While our team at BARMASTERS® will help you fine-tune the numbers, coming prepared with a baseline understanding is incredibly helpful for choosing the right package. The goal is to strike that perfect balance: enough for everyone to enjoy themselves without having cases of wine left over at the end of the night.
A great starting point is to use a dedicated tool to get a personalized estimate. Our alcohol calculator takes your specific event details—like guest count and duration—into account to give you a reliable number to work with. Think of this as your foundation. From there, you can adjust based on the unique details of your event, like the time of day and the general preferences of your guests. Remember, it’s always better to have a little extra than to run out early. Let’s walk through the key factors to consider so you can feel confident in your drink plan and make sure your open bar is a huge success.
Estimate How Much Your Guests Will Drink
A reliable industry standard is to plan for one drink per guest, per hour. So, for a four-hour party with 100 guests, you should prepare for about 400 drinks. This is just a starting point, of course. You know your crowd best—some guests might have two drinks all night, while others might have four or five. This rule of thumb provides a balanced average that works for most events.
Think about the mix of drinks as well. A common breakdown is 50% wine, 20% beer, and 30% liquor. If you know your friends are huge craft beer fans or love a good old-fashioned, you can adjust those percentages. The key is to use these general rules as a foundation and then tweak them based on what you know about your guests’ preferences.
Factor in Your Event Type and Time
The vibe and schedule of your event play a huge role in how much your guests will drink. A formal afternoon corporate luncheon will have very different consumption patterns than a high-energy Saturday night wedding reception. Daytime events or those held on a weeknight typically see less drinking. The longer the party, the more people will naturally drink, which is where a flat-rate bartending package can be more cost-effective.
Also, consider the flow of your event. Will there be a cocktail hour before dinner? Will the bar close during speeches? These details affect when and how much your guests will be drinking. Finally, don’t forget about non-alcoholic options. Always have water, soda, and juices available for guests who aren’t drinking alcohol or want to pace themselves.
Open Bar vs. Cash Bar: Which Is Right for You?
Deciding between an open bar and a cash bar is one of the biggest choices you’ll make when planning your event’s beverage service. One puts the focus squarely on guest experience, while the other prioritizes budget control. Neither is inherently better—it all comes down to your event style, your guests, and your bottom line. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can confidently decide which setup is the perfect match for your celebration.
The Case for an Open Bar
An open bar is the gold standard for guest experience. When you host an open bar, you’re telling your guests to relax, enjoy themselves, and leave their wallets at home. It creates a seamless, celebratory atmosphere where no one has to think about the cost of their next drink. This is a fantastic way to show your appreciation and ensure everyone feels taken care of. While costs can vary, planning for an open bar is straightforward. You can explore different bartending packages that bundle everything you need, making it easy to budget for a truly memorable and generous experience for your attendees.
When to Consider a Cash Bar
While an open bar is a generous gesture, it isn’t the right fit for every event. A cash bar, where guests pay for their own drinks, can be a practical and responsible choice. This option gives you complete control over your budget, which is a major plus if you’re working with tight financial constraints. It can also help manage consumption, as guests tend to drink more moderately when they’re paying. A cash bar might be a smart move for events with a smaller guest list, a crowd that doesn’t drink much, or a more casual daytime gathering where alcohol isn’t the main focus. It keeps things simple and predictable from a cost perspective.
Finding a Middle Ground
If you’re torn between the two, you’re in luck—there are plenty of ways to find a happy medium. One popular option is a ticketed bar, where you provide each guest with one or two drink tickets for a complimentary beverage. After they use their tickets, the bar can switch to a cash system. Another great approach is to host a limited bar, offering free beer and wine but having guests pay for spirits. This still feels generous without breaking the bank. To plan effectively, a good rule of thumb is to assume guests will have about one drink per hour. Using an alcohol calculator can help you dial in the exact numbers for your event.
Staying Legal: Permits, Licenses, and Liability
Let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous but absolutely essential side of hosting an event with alcohol: the legal stuff. Figuring out the rules around permits, insurance, and responsible service can feel like a huge task, but it’s a critical piece of the puzzle for a safe and successful party. The regulations aren’t just suggestions; they’re in place to protect you, your guests, and your venue from potential issues. The great news is that when you work with a professional bartending service, you’re not just hiring someone to mix drinks—you’re bringing on experts who handle these details so you don’t have to. It’s all about giving you total peace of mind, knowing that every legal box is checked while you focus on your guests. This is where a seasoned team makes all the difference, turning a potentially stressful process into a seamless part of your event plan. Instead of spending hours on government websites or worrying about liability, you can trust that your bartending partner has it all covered. They understand the local laws and carry the right credentials, which is a massive weight off your shoulders. It’s one of the biggest, yet often overlooked, benefits of hiring professionals for your open bar.
Necessary Permits and Licenses
Serving alcohol is a regulated activity, and the rules can change quite a bit depending on your state, county, and even the specific venue. Generally, any event serving alcohol requires certain permissions to operate legally. This can include everything from a general business license to specific permits related to alcohol service. Trying to figure this out on your own can be a real headache. A reputable mobile bartending company will be properly licensed and will know exactly what’s needed for your event, ensuring everything is above board from the first pour to the last call.
Understanding Liability and Insurance
Insurance is your safety net, and it’s non-negotiable when alcohol is involved. There are two main types to be aware of: general liability and liquor liability. General liability covers things like accidental property damage, while liquor liability insurance protects against any incidents related to alcohol consumption. Many venues will actually require your vendors to provide proof of event insurance before they can even set up on the property. When you hire a professional service like BARMASTERS®, we come fully insured. This protects you, your guests, and the venue, letting everyone relax and enjoy the celebration without worry.
Guidelines for Serving Responsibly
A great bartending team does more than make delicious cocktails; they create a safe environment for your guests. Serving alcohol responsibly is a top priority for any professional. This means our bartenders are trained to check IDs, recognize signs of intoxication, and politely refuse service when necessary. It also means ensuring there are appealing non-alcoholic options available for guests who aren’t drinking or who have had enough. Having experienced professionals behind the bar ensures your party stays fun and everyone gets home safely, which is the ultimate goal of any great host.
How to Hire a Professional Bartending Service
Choosing the right bartending service is just as important as selecting the perfect drink menu. The right team does more than just pour drinks; they create an atmosphere, manage the flow of your event, and ensure your guests have a fantastic and safe time. When you hire professionals, you’re not just buying beverages—you’re investing in peace of mind. A great service brings experience, liability insurance, and the skill to handle any situation with grace, from a sudden rush at the bar to politely cutting off a guest who has had too much. This level of professionalism protects you and makes the experience better for everyone involved.
As you start your search, focus on finding a company that feels like a true partner. Look for a team that listens to your vision and offers flexible bartending packages that can be tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to find a service that handles all the details, from bringing the right tools and garnishes to managing inventory throughout the night. When you can trust your bartending team completely, you can relax and enjoy the party alongside your guests. From setup to cleanup, a professional bartending company ensures every aspect of the bar service is seamless and stress-free.
What to Look for in a Bartending Company
When you’re vetting potential bartending companies, start with their experience and reputation. A seasoned company will have a portfolio of events similar to yours and glowing reviews from past clients. Look for a service that offers a wide range of options and is eager to customize a package that fits your event’s theme and budget. They should be able to guide you on everything from drink selection to how much alcohol you’ll need. A professional team will be transparent, responsive, and genuinely excited to help bring your event to life. This isn’t just about hiring staff; it’s about finding a partner who will contribute to your event’s success.
Key Questions to Ask Before You Book
Before you sign any contracts, it’s crucial to have a clear conversation to make sure you’re on the same page. Don’t be shy about asking direct questions to avoid any surprises later on. Start with the basics: Are your bartenders licensed and insured? Then, get into the financial details. Ask whether gratuity is included in the package or if the bartenders will use a tip jar. It’s also important to know the deadline for submitting your final guest count, as this will directly impact your costs. A reputable company will have clear answers to these questions, and you can often find many of them on their FAQ page.
Read the Fine Print: Agreements and Hidden Costs
Your contract is your best friend. Read it carefully to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Look for details on how costs are calculated—is it a flat fee, per person, or based on consumption? Clarify if there are any minimum spending requirements you need to meet. Be sure to ask about any potential extra charges, such as travel fees, setup costs, or taxes, that might not be included in the initial quote. The best way to start is to get a detailed quote that breaks down every line item. This ensures total transparency and helps you stick to your budget without any last-minute financial hiccups.
Common Open Bar Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
An open bar is a generous touch that makes guests feel welcome. But even with the best intentions, a few common planning mistakes can create stress and unexpected costs. The good news? They’re all easy to avoid. Whether it’s miscalculating how much alcohol you need or overlooking hidden fees, a little foresight goes a long way. We’ll cover the most frequent slip-ups and give you simple ways to sidestep them, so you can focus on enjoying your event while your guests enjoy their drinks.
Underestimating How Much Guests Will Drink
It’s the classic party-planning dilemma: how much is enough? Many hosts underestimate how much their guests will drink, leading to running out of popular options or facing a much higher bill than expected. A good rule of thumb is to plan for one drink per guest per hour, but this can change based on your crowd and the time of day. To get a more precise number, using an alcohol calculator is your best bet. It gives you a detailed estimate based on your specific event details, removing the guesswork and helping you build a realistic budget from the start.
Forgetting About Service Fees and Gratuities
The price you see isn’t always the final price you pay. A common budget buster is forgetting to account for administrative fees, taxes, and gratuities. Before signing any contract, get a clear breakdown of all costs. Ask your bartending service directly: Is gratuity included, or will they use a tip jar? Are there other service or setup fees? Understanding the full financial picture upfront prevents unwelcome surprises. When you review our bartending packages, we make sure every cost is clearly outlined so you know exactly what to expect.
Keeping Guests in the Dark About the Bar Setup
A little information goes a long way in managing guest expectations and keeping the bar line moving. If you’re offering a limited bar or special signature cocktails, let your guests know. This prevents confusion and shows you’ve put thought into their experience. You don’t need a huge announcement; a small, tastefully designed sign on the bar or a note on your event website works perfectly. Clearly communicating what’s available helps guests make their choices faster and keeps the celebration flowing smoothly.
Your Open Bar Game Plan
With your package selected and budget set, it’s time to focus on the details that will make your open bar a seamless part of your event. A solid game plan ensures everything from booking to the last call runs smoothly, letting you relax and enjoy the celebration alongside your guests. A little preparation now prevents logistical headaches later and guarantees your bar is a highlight for all the right reasons. Think of this as your final checklist for creating an unforgettable bar experience.
A Timeline for Booking and Planning
Once you have your event date, it’s a good idea to book your bartending service as soon as possible, especially if your event falls on a popular weekend or holiday. Start by getting a clear understanding of what your venue allows regarding outside alcohol and vendors. From there, you can explore different bartending packages to find one that fits your needs. A common rule of thumb for estimating consumption is to plan for one drink per guest per hour. To get a more precise estimate tailored to your crowd, use our handy alcohol calculator to figure out exactly what you’ll need to purchase. Finalize your booking, confirm the details, and you’re set.
Let Your Guests Know What to Expect
Giving your guests a heads-up about the bar situation is a thoughtful touch that helps everyone feel prepared. You don’t need a huge announcement; a simple line on your event website or invitation insert works perfectly. Mentioning what will be served—whether it’s beer and wine, a full bar, or a couple of fun signature cocktails—sets clear expectations. For most events, a small, elegant sign at the bar is enough to communicate the offerings. Your professional bartenders are also skilled at guiding guests through the selections and answering any questions they might have on the day of the event, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for everyone.
Tips for a Smooth Event Day
On the day of your event, a well-planned bar setup is key to keeping the drinks flowing and the lines short. Consider the flow of traffic in your venue and place the bar in a location that prevents bottlenecks. For larger parties, having two separate bar stations can make a huge difference. Before the event, confirm with your bartending service how gratuity is handled. It’s important to know whether it’s included in your package or if the bartenders will have a tip jar. Clarifying this detail beforehand ensures your service team is fairly compensated and avoids any confusion for you or your guests.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the real difference between paying per person and paying per drink? Think of it as choosing between budget certainty and a bit of a gamble. A per-person package gives you a fixed price, so you know your exact bar cost from the start, which makes financial planning much simpler. A per-drink, or consumption, bar means you only pay for what your guests actually drink. This can save you money if your crowd is full of light drinkers, but the final bill can be unpredictable if the party turns out to be a lively one.
Do I need to buy all the alcohol myself, or is that part of the service? This is a great question, as it can vary between companies. With our service, you provide the alcohol, and we handle everything else. This approach often saves you a significant amount of money since you can buy the beer, wine, and spirits from your preferred retailer without any markup. We then come in with our professional, insured bartenders, all the necessary bar tools, and the expertise to make your event run perfectly.
Will my guests think a beer and wine only bar is cheap for a wedding? Absolutely not! A thoughtfully selected beer and wine bar can be incredibly elegant and is a very popular choice for modern weddings. The key is quality, not quantity. Offering a great red, a crisp white, a rosé, and a couple of craft or local beers provides wonderful variety that satisfies the vast majority of guests. It creates a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere without overwhelming people with choices.
What happens if we start to run low on something popular like vodka or a specific wine? This is every host’s nightmare, but it’s one we work hard to prevent from the very beginning. The best solution is solid planning. By using our alcohol calculator and discussing your guest list with us, we can create a purchase list that ensures you have the right amount of everything. While we can’t run to the store mid-event, our planning process is designed to make sure you’re well-stocked for the entire party.
How do I handle gratuity for the bartenders? You have a couple of easy options here, and it’s best to decide what you’re comfortable with ahead of time. You can choose to include a gratuity in your total service fee, which means your guests don’t have to worry about tipping at all. The other common approach is to allow the bartenders to have a tip jar at the bar. We’ll discuss this with you when you book so everything is clear and handled exactly the way you want.
