Franklin Dean
Hiring a bartender for your wedding can be a daunting task, but it is crucial to ensure your guests have a memorable experience. From confirming the venue's policies to selecting a skilled mixologist, there are several steps to consider. Firstly, it is essential to verify if your wedding venue allows external bartenders and alcohol, as some locations have specific restrictions or prefer in-house staff. If you have the flexibility to hire a bartender, it is recommended to start the search at least six months before the wedding. Next, determine the number of bartenders needed based on the guest count and the complexity of drinks offered. A good rule of thumb is to have one bartender for every 35 to 100 guests. When hiring, prioritize experience, certifications, and liability insurance to ensure compliance with local laws and the safety of your guests. Discuss your drink preferences, signature cocktails, and budget with the bartending service, and don't forget to inquire about additional costs for glassware, ice, mixers, and other supplies.
How to hire a bartender for a wedding
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of bartenders | One bartender for every 35-100 guests |
| Type of bartender | Licensed, insured, TIPS certified |
| Cost | $35-60 per hour, $250-$400 for 3 hours, $50 per additional hour |
| Supplies | Glassware, cocktail napkins, cups, ice, garnishes, alcohol, tea, coffee, water |
| Timing | Select a bartender at least six months before the wedding |
| Other | Trash removal, bar setup and breakdown, bartender attire |
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What You'll Learn
Number of bartenders needed
The number of bartenders you need for your wedding depends on several factors, including the number of guests, the drinks being served, and the desired level of service.
As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for one bartender per 35 to 100 guests. This ensures that the bar is adequately staffed, and your guests won't have to wait too long for their drinks. For example, a wedding with 150 guests may require four to five bartenders. However, if you're serving simple drinks like beer and wine, you may be able to get away with fewer bartenders, as these can be poured quickly. On the other hand, if you plan to serve craft cocktails, you may need more bartenders with the appropriate mixology skills and experience.
It's also important to consider the setup of your venue. If you have multiple bar stations, you may need more bartenders to ensure each station is adequately staffed. Additionally, if you're providing a full bar with a custom cocktail menu, you'll likely need more bartenders than if you're only serving beer and wine.
Don't forget to factor in the work that happens before and after the event. Bartenders are typically responsible for setting up the bar and cleaning up afterward, so be sure to include this time in your calculations.
To ensure a seamless experience for your guests, it's generally recommended to have more bartenders than you think you'll need. This will help keep the drinks flowing and your guests happy.
When creating your timeline, it's a good idea to select your bartender at least six months before your wedding. This will give you time to discuss your vision, sort out the necessary details, and ensure they have the appropriate certifications and insurance.
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Bartender qualifications and experience
When hiring a bartender for your wedding, it is important to look for someone with the right qualifications and experience. While liquor laws vary from state to state in the US, most state liquor regulations require anyone serving alcohol at a licensed venue to be TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) certified, or hold equivalent certification. This course teaches bartenders how to prevent drunk driving, intoxication, and underage drinking, and they must pass an exam to receive this certification. Other certifications, such as ServSafeAlcohol, are also important for ensuring bartenders are trained to serve alcohol responsibly.
In addition to certifications, it is crucial to hire a bartender with experience in event bartending or wedding bartending specifically. Event bartending is different from regular bartending, and an experienced bartender will know what to order, how much to order, and how to set up and tear down efficiently. They should also be able to make drink recommendations and strike up conversations with guests.
When hiring a bartender, it is also essential to consider their mixology skills and knowledge of alcoholic beverages. A good bartender will be able to work quickly and have a vast knowledge of different drinks and mixing techniques. They should also be able to help you create signature cocktails for your wedding if desired.
Finally, it is important to ensure that your bartender is insured and has the necessary licenses to serve alcohol. This will protect you and your guests in case of any incidents. It is worth noting that some venues may have a list of preferred bar service vendors, and your wedding planner or caterer may also be able to recommend experienced and qualified bartenders.
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Drinks and glassware
When it comes to drinks for your wedding, you have a few options. You can choose to supply the alcohol yourself, or you can have the bartender or catering company supply it for you. If you supply the alcohol, you can save money by purchasing from a wholesaler or big-box store, and you can often return any unopened bottles. However, this option requires more planning and coordination, as you'll need to calculate how much alcohol to buy, and ensure that it's delivered and set up correctly.
If you'd prefer a more hands-off approach, you can have your bartender or caterer supply the alcohol. This option is typically more expensive, but it can save you time and effort. Be sure to discuss your drink options with your bartender or caterer in advance, as they may have suggestions or requirements for the types and amounts of alcohol needed.
In addition to alcohol, you'll also need to provide other drinks such as water, tea, and soda. It's important to have a variety of options to accommodate different preferences and needs.
Regarding glassware, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll need to decide whether to use glass or acrylic drinkware. Glass is more elegant and luxurious, but acrylic is more durable and budget-friendly. If you choose glass, consider renting glassware to save money and avoid the hassle of cleaning and returning rented glassware.
When selecting your glassware, opt for clean lines and neutral colours to complement your table settings. If you want to add a touch of personality, consider coloured or textured glassware that complements your floral arrangements or overall colour palette.
Finally, work with your bartender or caterer to ensure you have the correct glassware for the drinks you plan to serve. You may need glasses for water, wine, champagne, cocktails, and other specialty drinks. If you have signature drinks, you can make an impression by using curated glasses that match the drink's style and your wedding's aesthetic.
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Budgeting
Firstly, the bartender's experience and expertise will influence the price. A basic bartender may charge around $35 to $60 per hour, while those with extensive mixology skills and experience in crafting complex cocktails can charge $50 to $100 more per event. Event bartending is different from regular bartending, and an experienced bartender will be able to advise on what and how much to order based on your guest count.
The services offered by the bartender will also affect the cost. Some bartenders provide additional services such as flair bartending or cocktail crafting, which can increase the price by $100 to $200. Creating a signature cocktail for your wedding can cost an additional $300 to $500, depending on the ingredients and preparation time. If you require a mobile bar package for venues without a built-in bar, this can range from $800 to $3,000, depending on the equipment and the number of guests.
Other costs to consider include travel fees, setup fees, glassware, and gratuity. Some bartenders may charge extra for travel and setup, while others may include these in their package. Glassware can also add to the overall cost, especially if you require specific types of glasses for certain drinks. It is common to include a tip jar for the bartender, but if you prefer not to, you may need to pay a higher fixed rate.
To save money, you may want to consider purchasing your own alcohol and supplies separately. This can include items such as cups, napkins, straws, ice, garnishes, and water bottles. However, it is important to note that some bartenders have rules regarding the setup and may require certain items to be provided. Discussing your requirements directly with the bartender will help you understand the costs and what is included in their service.
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Venue restrictions
When it comes to venue restrictions, there are a few key things to keep in mind when hiring a bartender for your wedding. Firstly, check with your venue to see if they have any restrictions or requirements regarding bartending services. Some venues may have in-house bartenders or preferred vendors that you are required to use, so it is important to clarify this before making any hiring decisions. Additionally, some venues may have restrictions on the serving of alcohol, such as requiring that anyone serving alcohol be TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) certified or hold equivalent certification. This is an important consideration, as you will want to ensure that your bartender is properly certified and insured.
Another restriction to keep in mind is the cost of hiring a bartender. The venue may charge a fee for each bartender, which is typically based on the number of guests attending the wedding. For example, a venue may charge $75 per bartender for every 40 guests. This can add up quickly, so it is important to factor this into your overall budget. Additionally, there may be additional costs for set-up, travel, or creating signature cocktails.
Some venues may also have restrictions on where you can purchase your alcohol. While some venues may allow you to purchase your own alcohol off-site, others may require that you purchase it through them or through a specific vendor. This can impact your overall costs, so be sure to clarify this with your venue. If you are supplying your own alcohol, be sure to purchase enough to avoid running out during the event.
It is also important to consider any restrictions or requirements that the venue may have regarding the bar set-up. For example, some venues may require that you provide certain items such as napkins, straws, cups, ice, and garnishes. Others may have specific rules regarding the use of coolers or spills. Be sure to clarify these details with your venue to ensure that you have everything you need for the bar to run smoothly.
Lastly, don't forget to consider the timing of your event. Some venues may have restrictions on when the bar can be open and serving alcohol. Be sure to clarify this in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. By keeping these venue restrictions in mind, you can ensure that you hire a bartender who is well-suited to your wedding and venue and can provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
A good rule of thumb is to have one bartender for every 35 to 75-100 guests. The more bartenders you have, the faster the service and the more enjoyable the experience for everyone.
The cost depends on the bartender's experience, the drinks being served, the amount of time they're needed, and the number of bartenders required. An average starting point is $35/hour/bartender, but you might pay someone with experience in craft cocktails significantly more.
A professional wedding bartender will be able to work quickly and have an immense knowledge of mixology. They will also be insured and have the legal permission to refuse service to guests who may have had too much to drink, helping to keep everyone safe.
There are several options for wedding bars, including a full open bar, a beer and wine bar, or a signature cocktail bar. A signature cocktail bar is a step up from a beer and wine bar, but it's not as expensive or complex as a full open bar.
It is important to confirm that your venue allows you to hire your own bartender and to check if they have any licensing or insurance requirements. You should also consider the number of guests, the type of drinks being served, and your budget.
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