Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding reception is no easy feat, and one of the most important considerations is the drinks menu. Couples often opt for a signature cocktail to personalise their wedding, with some choosing to offer two to three craft cocktails and others just one. The number of cocktails served at the average wedding reception varies depending on the couple's preferences, the guest list, and the length of the reception. On average, guests will consume around four drinks, including beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks, with some having one reception drink and others two. For a six-hour wedding with 100 guests, this would equate to 600 drinks. However, it's worth noting that some guests may have up to seven drinks, while others may not drink any alcohol at all. Ultimately, the decision of how many cocktails to serve depends on the couple's budget and the expected consumption rate of their guests.
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What You'll Learn
Signature cocktails
It is recommended that couples offer no more than two to three signature cocktails at their wedding, with one source suggesting no more than five. These cocktails should reflect the couple's personalities and be sentimental, but also appeal to a variety of guests. For example, an Aperol Spritz, Negroni, or Sangria will always be a crowd-pleaser, and espresso martinis and mezcal margaritas are trending.
One way to make the signature cocktails special is to incorporate the wedding theme, the couple's heritage, or hometown. For instance, a wedding in the south might feature whiskey and bourbon-based drinks, while a beach wedding could have fruity cocktails. Another idea is to name the cocktails after the couple's pets, such as "The Bella" or "The CosmoPAWlitan".
If you're looking to save money, offering just a signature cocktail, champagne, or wine and beer for the first hour is a good option. This can be followed by a full bar when the dance floor opens. It is also a good idea to offer a non-alcoholic version of the signature cocktail, or "mocktail", to make ordering easier for guests who don't drink alcohol.
When it comes to quantities, it is recommended to plan for at least one drink per person per hour. For a six-hour wedding with 100 guests, this would be 600 drinks. However, some sources suggest accounting for two drinks in the first hour and one drink per hour after that, resulting in seven drinks per person for a six-hour reception. This calculation can be adjusted based on the expected duration of the event and the number of guests.
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Number of drinks per guest
When it comes to drinks at a wedding, there are a lot of variables to consider, from the duration of the reception to the number and preferences of your guests. It's also important to remember that some guests may not drink at all, while others may have several drinks.
As a general rule of thumb, you can estimate that each guest will consume around four drinks over a four-hour reception, which equates to about one drink per hour. This estimate assumes a mix of beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks. If your wedding is longer than four hours, you can adjust this estimate accordingly, adding one drink per guest for each additional hour. For example, for a six-hour wedding with 100 guests, you would need around 600 drinks.
However, it's worth noting that this is just an average, and the actual number of drinks consumed can vary significantly depending on the group. Some people suggest budgeting for two drinks per guest during the first hour of the reception, especially if you're offering a signature cocktail or a welcome drink. This can be followed by a glass of wine or champagne with dinner and then one to two drinks per hour for the rest of the evening.
If you want to offer a full bar, it's recommended to provide a variety of spirits, including vodka, bourbon, tequila, gin, and rum, as well as mixers. However, if you're concerned about overcomplicating things or having too much leftover alcohol, you could consider offering just a signature cocktail or two, along with wine and beer. This way, you can personalize your wedding while still providing a range of options for your guests.
Ultimately, the number of drinks per guest will depend on your specific wedding and guest list. It's always a good idea to have a little extra, and you can return any unopened or non-perishable goods afterward.
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Types of alcohol
When it comes to wedding planning, there are a lot of variables to consider when determining how many cocktails to serve. The style of the wedding, the duration of the reception, and the number of guests will all impact the number of cocktails served.
As a general rule of thumb, plan for at least one drink per guest per hour of the reception. For example, a six-hour wedding with 100 guests would require approximately 600 drinks. This calculation includes all types of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you anticipate your guests consuming more cocktails, you can adjust this calculation accordingly.
It is recommended to offer two to five signature cocktails to personalise your wedding. This allows for variety while keeping the bar service efficient. Classic cocktails such as an Old Fashioned or a Negroni are always popular, and you may also want to include a mocktail option. When creating your signature cocktails, consider using spirits such as vodka, bourbon, tequila, gin, or rum to satisfy most guests' preferences.
In addition to cocktails, a typical wedding bar may also offer beer, wine, champagne, and spirits. For a four-hour reception with 100 guests, you would need approximately 400 drinks, including cocktails. A standard bottle of wine serves 5-6 glasses, so you would need around 67 to 80 bottles for this duration. For beer, a case typically contains 24 bottles or cans, so you can calculate the quantity required based on the number of guests and the duration of the reception.
Don't forget to consider the season and location of your wedding. A summer wedding or one held in a warmer climate will likely require more white wine, beer, refreshing cocktails, and water to keep your guests hydrated and comfortable.
Lastly, it is a good idea to buy your stock from a retailer that offers a sale-on-return basis. This will allow you to return any unopened and non-perishable goods, ensuring you don't overspend or run out of drinks during your special day.
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Glassware and sundry items
When it comes to glassware and sundry items, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to know how many guests will be attending the wedding reception and how long the reception will last. This will help determine the number of glasses and other items required.
As a general rule, it is recommended to plan for at least one drink per guest per hour. For example, for a six-hour wedding reception with 100 guests, you would need around 600 drinks. This can be adjusted based on the expected drinking habits of your guests—if you anticipate heavier drinking, you may want to increase this estimate.
The type of drinks served will also influence your glassware choices. For example, a cocktail reception may require more varied glassware, such as flutes for champagne or specialty glasses for specific cocktails. On the other hand, a casual backyard barbecue wedding may only require glasses for wine and beer. Consider the style and theme of your wedding when making these choices.
In addition to glassware, there are several sundry items to consider:
- Mixers: Ensure you have a variety of mixers such as coke, sprite, orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, ginger ale, tonic water, club soda, grenadine, and more.
- Garnishes: Specialty drinks may require particular garnishes. For example, a Mint Mojito requires plenty of mint leaves and lime, while an Old Fashioned needs orange slices.
- Straws, napkins, and other small items: These may be required depending on the drinks served and the preferences of the couple.
- Refrigeration and bar essentials: If you are providing your own drinks, you may need to hire refrigeration and bar equipment, including a bar unit, to ensure a seamless service.
It is also worth noting that some guests may prefer non-alcoholic options, so ensure you have a good selection of soft drinks and mixers for those who are not drinking alcohol.
By considering the number of guests, the duration of the reception, the types of drinks served, and the necessary sundry items, you can ensure you have the appropriate glassware and accessories for a well-stocked and enjoyable wedding reception.
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Cost
The cost of cocktails at a wedding reception will depend on a variety of factors, including the number of guests, the duration of the reception, and the types of drinks served. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with cocktails at a wedding reception:
Number of Cocktails Served
The number of cocktails served at a wedding reception can vary depending on the preferences of the couple and the guests. Some couples may choose to offer a limited selection of signature cocktails, while others may opt for a full bar with various cocktail options. On average, it is recommended to plan for at least one drink per guest per hour. For example, a six-hour wedding reception with 100 guests would require approximately 600 drinks. This calculation assumes that each guest will consume one drink per hour. However, it is important to consider that some guests may drink more or less than this average amount.
Type of Cocktails
The cost of cocktails can vary significantly depending on the type of drinks served. Simple cocktails with fewer ingredients tend to be more cost-effective than complex craft cocktails. For example, a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a Negroni may require fewer specialty liquors and garnishes compared to a more intricate mixology creation. Additionally, the cost of liquor can vary widely, with top-shelf spirits being more expensive than mid-range or well drinks. Couples can also offer canned cocktails as a welcome drink, but it is recommended to limit these to one per guest rather than offering them unlimited at the bar.
DIY vs Professional Bar Service
Another factor affecting cost is whether the couple chooses to set up a DIY wedding bar or hire a professional bar service. A DIY bar can be more affordable, as the couple can purchase alcohol and supplies in bulk and return any unopened items. However, it requires more planning and coordination, including transporting the alcohol to the venue and setting up the bar. On the other hand, hiring a professional bar service can be more convenient, as they will handle the setup, staffing, and management of the bar. Professional bartenders may also have access to wholesale prices on alcohol, which can help reduce costs.
Signature Cocktails vs Full Bar
Offering a signature cocktail or a limited drink selection during the first hour of the reception can be a cost-saving strategy. This allows the couple to provide a personalized drink experience without incurring the cost of a full bar from the beginning. Couples can also choose to start with a cocktail hour, featuring signature cocktails, followed by a selection of wine and beer for the remainder of the reception. Starting with a full bar from the beginning of the reception will likely increase costs.
Open Bar vs Cash Bar
The decision between an open bar and a cash bar can also impact the overall cost. An open bar means the couple covers the cost of all drinks for their guests, which can quickly increase the budget, especially if there are many guests. On the other hand, a cash bar means guests pay for their drinks, which can help control costs but may not be as well-received by guests. A middle ground could be to offer a limited open bar with specific drinks included, and additional drinks available for purchase.
Glassware and Sundry Items
In addition to the cost of alcohol, couples need to consider the cost of glassware and sundry items such as straws, napkins, and mixers. Glassware can be rented or purchased, and the quantity needed will depend on the number of guests and the types of drinks served. Couples should also factor in the cost of non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda or juice, for guests who don't drink alcohol or prefer mixed drinks. These additional items can add to the overall cost of the wedding bar.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the number of guests, the duration of the reception, and the drinking habits of your guests. As a rule of thumb, plan for at least one drink per person per hour. For a six-hour wedding with 100 guests, you’ll need about 600 drinks. This includes cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits.
It is recommended to offer two to three craft cocktails, with no more than five options. Offering too many cocktails can slow down the bar service and lead to unused alcohol.
Popular cocktails include the Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Sangria, espresso martini, mezcal margarita, and Old Fashioned. You can also personalise your wedding by creating a signature cocktail that reflects the couple's personalities and heritage.
First, estimate the number of guests who will consume cocktails. Then, consider the duration of the reception and the average number of cocktails consumed per hour. Finally, adjust your calculations based on the expected drinking habits of your guests. Some may have two cocktails in the first hour and then one cocktail per hour, while others may have a lower or higher consumption rate.
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