Franklin Dean
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding on the details, such as the glassware. The type and amount of glassware needed for a wedding can vary depending on several factors, including the number of guests, the duration of the event, and the types of beverages served. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least one glass per guest for each type of beverage, but it's also important to consider potential refills and misplaced glasses, which typically leads to a recommendation of an additional 10-20% of the calculated quantity. While some sources suggest that a universal wine glass for both red and white wine is sufficient, others suggest that having separate glasses for red and white wine adds a touch of elegance to the event.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of glasses per guest | 3-4 glasses per wine drinker |
| Glass size | 8.5-ounce and 13-ounce sizes |
| Glass type | Universal wine glass for red and white wine, champagne flutes, martini glasses, beer glasses, old-fashioned glasses, highball glasses, plastic cups |
| Number of bars | 2 or more during cocktail hour |
| Glass cleaning | Caterer or rental company |
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What You'll Learn
Different types of drinks require different glassware
When it comes to drinks, using the correct glassware is essential to enhance the drinking experience. Different types of drinks require different glassware to improve the drink's aroma, flavour, and visual appeal.
For example, consider the ubiquitous wine glass. Red wine glasses are typically larger with a wide mouth, allowing more air contact to enhance the aroma and flavour of the wine. Conversely, white wine glasses are smaller to maintain the wine's cool temperature and highlight its freshness. Similarly, champagne flutes have a tall, narrow shape to retain the bubbles and guide the aroma towards the nose effectively.
Cocktails also require specific glassware. Classic cocktails are served in a traditional cocktail glass, an inverted cone bowl that may come in various sizes, usually around 3 to 6 ounces. This shape allows the drinker to get close to the drink and enjoy its scent and taste fully. A martini glass, a variation of the cocktail glass, has a larger bowl and is fully conical at the bottom. On the other hand, a highball glass is used for 'tall' cocktails and mixed drinks with a large proportion of non-alcoholic mixers, served over ice.
Other drinks have their own unique glassware. For instance, the Glencairn Whisky Glass was developed to maximise flavour when drinking whisky, borrowing from traditional nosing glasses used by master blenders. The margarita, a speciality drink, also has its own glassware, though it is rarely seen outside of dedicated bars.
When planning a wedding, it is essential to consider the types of drinks that will be served and the appropriate glassware for each. While it may be tempting to use a standard wine glass for all types of wine, having separate glasses for red and white wine can elevate the drinking experience for your guests. Similarly, while plastic cups may be more convenient and cost-effective, real glass champagne flutes can add elegance to a champagne toast.
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Renting glassware vs buying disposable cups
When it comes to weddings, the drinks service is an important aspect to consider. While some may prefer the elegance of glassware, others may opt for the convenience of disposable cups. Here are some considerations for renting glassware vs buying disposable cups for a wedding:
Renting Glassware
Renting glassware can be a convenient option for couples who want to ensure they have enough glasses for all their guests. It eliminates the need to worry about cleaning and packing up glasses at the end of the night. However, it can be expensive, with costs including delivery fees and rental charges. For those who have the budget and prefer the look and feel of real glassware, renting may be the best option. It is also more environmentally friendly than disposable cups.
Buying Disposable Cups
On the other hand, buying disposable cups can be a more cost-effective option, especially for those on a tight budget. It eliminates the hassle of renting, returning, and cleaning glassware. It is also a safer option, as there is no risk of guests breaking glasses. However, some people may not prefer the look and feel of disposable cups, and there may be concerns about labeling and the environmental impact. Additionally, it can be challenging to find elegant disposable cups that fit the wedding's theme and style.
Factors to Consider
When deciding between renting glassware and buying disposable cups, several factors should be considered:
- Budget: Disposable cups are generally more affordable than renting glassware, especially for larger weddings.
- Convenience: Renting glassware can save time and effort, as you don't need to worry about cleaning and packing glasses.
- Elegance: Glassware can add a touch of elegance to the wedding, while disposable cups may not be as aesthetically pleasing.
- Safety: Disposable cups eliminate the risk of broken glass, which is a safety concern, especially in a crowded wedding reception.
- Environmental Impact: Reusable glassware is more environmentally friendly than disposable cups, which can contribute to waste.
- Theme and Style: The chosen drinkware should complement the wedding's theme and style. Glassware may be preferred for a more elegant or traditional wedding, while disposable cups could be customized for a more casual or themed wedding.
Ultimately, the decision between renting glassware and buying disposable cups depends on the couple's preferences, budget, and the overall style of the wedding. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to weigh these factors before making a decision.
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How many glasses to rent/buy
Renting glassware is generally considered to be the most sustainable option for weddings. It is also recommended over buying to avoid the pre-washing, storing, delivering, and taking home a large number of dirty glasses. If you are renting glassware on your own, it is important to choose a reputable company, order enough glasses, and factor in the cost of delivery, pickup, and additional waitstaff to clean and restock glasses throughout the event.
To determine the number of glasses to rent, a general rule of thumb is to multiply the number of guests by the length of the party in hours (assuming one drink per person per hour). For example, if your reception lasts 3 hours and you have 150 guests, you can expect to serve 450 drinks – 180 beer, 270 wine. If you are only offering wine and beer, it is estimated that 60% of guests will drink wine and 40% will drink beer. However, you know your guests best and can adjust these estimates accordingly.
For wine drinkers, it is recommended to have 3-4 glasses per person to account for multiple drinks and the possibility of glasses being misplaced or forgotten. So, for 150 guests, you should plan to rent 270 wine glasses. If you want to include a wine glass at each place setting, you would need to add another 150 wine glasses.
If you are serving bottled beer, it is recommended to have a few glasses on hand. For a 150-person wedding, you can plan for 150 water glasses for the table settings, plus extra for vendors and water requests at the bar. If you are serving beer from a keg, you may consider renting pint or pilsner glasses.
It is also important to consider the type of glassware you will need based on the theme and style of your wedding, as well as the drinks you will be serving. For example, cocktails are typically served in highball glasses, martini glasses, or champagne flutes, while water can be served in traditional highball glasses or fancier water goblets.
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Choosing glassware based on the number of drinks served
Choosing the right glassware for your wedding can elevate the look and feel of the event and make your guests feel well taken care of. The number of drinks you plan to serve will influence the quantity and variety of glassware you need. Here are some tips for choosing glassware based on the number of drinks served:
- Estimate the number of drinks: Calculate the expected number of drinks by considering the duration of your event, the number of guests, and the average drinking rate (e.g., one drink per guest per hour). This will help you determine the total quantity of glassware needed.
- Consider drink preferences: Think about the drink preferences of your guests. Will most guests prefer wine, beer, cocktails, or a mix of everything? Adjust your glassware quantities accordingly. For example, if you have 150 guests and expect 60% to drink wine, you'll need around 270 wine glasses for a 3-hour event.
- Choose a universal glass or specialised glasses: If you're serving multiple types of drinks, consider using a universal glass, such as an 11-13 oz glass for both red and white wine. This can reduce the number of specialised glasses you need. However, if you want to elevate the experience, you can provide separate glasses for red and white wine, champagne toasts, cocktails, and beer.
- Account for glass reuse and misplacement: Most events or venues don't offer dishwashing services, so guests will likely use multiple glasses throughout the event. Plan for 3-4 glasses per wine drinker, and consider having extra glasses for those who misplace their drinks.
- Offer water glasses: Ensure you have enough water glasses for each guest. Water goblets or highball glasses are common options.
- Seek professional guidance: Consult your bartender, caterer, or event planner for advice. They can guide you in choosing the right types and quantities of glassware based on your drink menu and the expected number of drinks served.
Remember, the glassware you choose should align with the formality and aesthetic of your wedding while also being practical and sufficient for the number of drinks you plan to serve.
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Asking for help from bartenders, caterers, etc
When it comes to planning a wedding, bartenders and caterers can be invaluable sources of help and advice. While you may want to have one standard set of wine glasses, it is nice to have different glasses for different types of drinks, such as distinct glasses for red and white wine. If you're serving champagne, you'll need to add champagne flutes to the list. If you're unsure about what glassware to use, your bartender should be able to help you figure out how many glasses you need and what kind to get. They will also be able to advise on the glass size for different drinks.
- Are you STAR (Server Training in Alcohol Regulations) certified?
- Will it be an open bar or a cash bar?
- Are there any restrictions on how alcohol can be served?
- Will you supply the alcohol, ice, cups, etc., or do I need to buy them?
- What is the deposit and final payment plan, and what forms of payment do you accept?
- Can we request specific drinks?
- Can you provide any special non-alcoholic drinks?
- Can you provide tables, linens, rags, ice, cups, bar napkins, cutting boards, shakers, etc.?
As for caterers, it is important to do a preliminary interview to get to know them and ensure they are free on your wedding day. You should also ask if they will need extra equipment to prepare food at the venue, and whether the food will be made at their facility or at the venue. It is also worth asking about their server and bartender-to-guest ratio, and whether the staff at the tasting will be the ones helping at the wedding. You can also ask about their clothing to ensure it fits the theme and style of your wedding, and whether they have the proper catering license and insurance.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not necessary to have differently-sized wine glasses for your wedding. A standard set of wine glasses is fine, but for a more elegant affair, you may want to have separate glasses for red and white wine. Typically, wine glasses are available in 8.5-ounce and 13-ounce sizes.
The number of wine glasses you will need depends on the number of guests and the duration of your wedding. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least one glass per guest for each type of beverage. For example, if you have 50 guests and plan to serve three types of drinks (wine, cocktails, and soft drinks), you would need a minimum of 150 glasses.
It is recommended to have an additional 10-20% of the calculated quantity to account for refills and misplaced glasses. This surplus also accommodates unexpected guests.
Yes, plastic wine glasses are an option if you want to avoid the hassle of washing and potential breakage. Plastic stemware is designed to mimic the appearance and feel of traditional glassware, adding a sophisticated touch to your wedding.
