Open Bar At Weddings: Invitation Wording And Guest Expectations

When it comes to wedding planning, there are many factors to consider, and one of the most important decisions is whether or not to include an open bar. While some couples prefer to keep their guests informed about the availability of an open bar, others may find it unnecessary or even tacky to mention such details on the invitation. In this discussion, we will explore the different perspectives and offer guidance on how to navigate this aspect of wedding planning gracefully. From etiquette considerations to practical concerns, we will delve into the pros and cons of including open bar information in wedding invitations, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your values and vision for your special day.

Invitation wording

There are differing opinions on whether or not to include information about an open bar on a wedding invitation. Some people think it is unnecessary and could be seen as tacky, while others believe it is helpful for guests to know in advance so they can bring cash if needed. Ultimately, it is up to the couple to decide what wording, if any, to include about the bar on their invitation.

If you choose to include information about the open bar on your invitation, there are a few ways you could word it. Here are some options:

• "Limited bar available" (for a more formal invitation style)
• "We'll bring the beer and wine, you bring the party" (for a more casual invitation style)
• "Dinner, dancing, and cocktails to follow"
• "Dinner reception to follow"
• "Reception to follow"
• "Cocktail reception to follow"

If you prefer not to mention the open bar directly, you could include a subtle hint such as "If you plan on drinking, please arrange alternate transportation" or "As alcohol will be served, please use alternate transportation."

Another option is to include a link to your wedding website on the invitation, where guests can find more detailed information about the open bar. This way, you can provide all sorts of additional details without making it the focus of the invitation. On your website, you could simply state "Yes, there will be an open bar at the wedding" or provide more specific information about the type of open bar, such as a limited open bar or a beer and wine-only bar.

Some couples choose to include information about the bar on a separate insert or details card included with the invitation, rather than on the invitation itself. This allows them to provide additional information without cluttering the invitation.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include information about the open bar on the wedding invitation is a personal one. Some couples may prefer to keep the invitation simple and elegant, while others may want to ensure their guests are well-informed about what to expect at the reception. Whichever approach you choose, there are tasteful ways to word and present the information to your guests.

Cash bar or open bar

There are various factors to consider when deciding between a cash bar or an open bar for your wedding. While an open bar is generally considered the more hospitable option, it can be very expensive. On the other hand, a cash bar may be seen as poor hosting by your guests, but it can help you save money. Here are some pros and cons of each option to help you decide:

Open Bar Pros:

• Your guests will appreciate not having to worry about bringing cash or cards to the wedding.
• An open bar can enhance the party atmosphere and encourage guests to indulge and have a good time.
• You won't have to worry about any calculations or budgeting during the event, though you should be prepared for a potentially high estimate.

Open Bar Cons:

• Your guests may overindulge, which could put a damper on the event.
• It can be very expensive, especially if you want to offer a full selection of beer, wine, and liquor.
• There may be issues with guests trying to get multiple drinks at once or wasting drinks.

Cash Bar Pros:

• You will save a significant amount of money that can be allocated to other aspects of the wedding, such as food or entertainment.
• Guests may drink less, which can lead to better behaviour and fewer drunk guests.
• You can still offer some free drinks, such as a glass of bubbly for toasts, or provide drink tickets to control the tab.

Cash Bar Cons:

• Some guests may view a cash bar as poor hosting and may be less inclined to stay for the entire event.
• Guests may not be prepared with enough cash, especially if it's not mentioned in the invitation.
• It may not be suitable for certain social circles or regions where an open bar is expected.

Informing Guests:

It is generally not necessary to specify the bar details on the invitation. However, if you are having a cash bar, it is considerate to inform your guests in advance so they can come prepared. This can be done through word of mouth, on your wedding website, or on a separate insert with the invitation. If you have an open bar, you can simply mention "reception to follow" or "dinner, drinks, and dancing to follow" on the invitation.

Alternative Options:

If you are concerned about the pros and cons of both options, you can consider alternative variations, such as:

• Limited open bar: Offer a limited selection of alcohol, such as beer, wine, and a signature cocktail, or only serve during certain times, like the cocktail hour.
• Beer and wine only: This helps reduce expenses while still providing alcoholic options for guests.
• Signature cocktails only: Offer one or two custom cocktails that reflect your relationship or favourite drinks.
• Champagne-only: Serve champagne or prosecco, or set up a DIY bubbly bar with fresh fruit juices.

Communication methods

There are several ways to communicate the availability of an open bar at a wedding. While it is not required to inform guests about the open bar, it is a nice gesture to do so. Here are some communication methods to consider:

• Wedding Invitations: One option is to include a simple phrase on the wedding invitation or an accompanying information card. For example, phrases like "reception to follow" or "dinner reception to follow" are often used to imply that drinks will be served without explicitly mentioning an open bar. Some couples may also choose to include a more direct phrase like "open bar to follow" or "limited bar available." However, it is generally considered unnecessary and even tacky by some to include such details on the formal invitation.
• Wedding Website: A more subtle and modern approach is to mention the open bar on the wedding website. This allows for more flexibility in the wording and provides an opportunity to share additional details without making it the focal point. For instance, a FAQ page on the website can include a question like "Will there be an open bar?" allowing the couple to provide a direct answer. This method ensures that guests have access to the information without overwhelming them on the formal invitation.
• Word of Mouth: Another option is to rely on word of mouth to spread the information. This can be done by casually mentioning it to close friends and family, who can then pass on the information to other guests. This method may not reach all guests, but it can help create a sense of exclusivity and excitement.
• Separate Cards or Inserts: Instead of including the open bar information on the main invitation, it can be communicated through separate cards or inserts included with the invitation suite. These additional pieces can provide more detailed information, such as the types of drinks that will be served or any relevant transportation arrangements.
• Transportation Information: Some couples choose to emphasize the importance of safe transportation without directly mentioning the open bar. For example, including a phrase like "If you plan on drinking, please arrange for alternate transportation" can subtly hint at the availability of alcohol without explicitly mentioning an open bar.
• Cocktail Reception: Inviting guests to a cocktail reception, especially if it starts at a later time like 8 pm, can imply that drinks will be served without specifically mentioning an open bar. This approach may not provide explicit information but allows guests to infer the availability of alcoholic beverages.

When deciding on a communication method, it is essential to consider the couple's preferences, the guests' expectations, and the level of formality desired for the wedding. Ultimately, the decision to include or exclude information about the open bar on the wedding invitation should be made based on what feels most comfortable and appropriate for the couple.

Guest expectations

When it comes to guest expectations, the general consensus is that it is not necessary to include information about the bar on the wedding invitation. It is assumed that guests will be provided for, and they will be pleasantly surprised if there is an open bar. However, it is important to note that expectations may vary depending on cultural norms and the guest's financial situation.

Some guests may expect an open bar, especially if it is a cultural norm or if they are travelling from out of town and will be staying in hotels. In such cases, explicitly mentioning an open bar on the invitation or wedding website may be appreciated, so guests don't have to worry about bringing cash or incurring additional expenses. This is also an opportunity to encourage guests to arrange alternative transportation if they plan on drinking.

On the other hand, some guests may find it tacky or unnecessary to mention the bar details on the invitation or website. They may prefer more subtle hints, such as mentioning a "cocktail reception" or "dinner, drinks, and dancing to follow." These phrases imply that drinks will be served without explicitly stating an open bar.

If there is a cash bar or limited bar, it is generally considered vital to inform guests in advance so they can come prepared with money. This can be done on a separate insert or details card, or on the wedding website, rather than on the invitation itself. This ensures that guests are not caught off guard and have the opportunity to bring cash if needed.

Overall, guest expectations regarding the bar at a wedding may vary. While some may expect an open bar and appreciate explicit information about it, others may find it unnecessary or tacky. As such, it is essential to consider the guests' perspectives and choose a communication method that aligns with the couple's preferences and ensures a pleasant experience for their guests.

Alcohol alternatives

It is generally considered unnecessary to specify whether there will be an open bar on your wedding invitations. However, if you are having a cash bar, it is considered vital to let your guests know in advance so that they can come prepared with money.

If you are looking for alcohol alternatives for your wedding, here are some ideas:

• Serve your favourite non-alcoholic drinks. This could be anything from root beer to homemade lemonade.
• Offer a variety of mocktails. These can be served in cocktail glasses, giving them the appearance of alcoholic beverages, with the added bonus of a range of flavours.
• Provide sparkling waters. These are festive and please almost everyone. You can order them in bulk in various flavours and serve them in bottles, cans, or any other type of container.
• Set up a soda bar. Customise it with your favourite colas and make it fit your wedding decor. You can provide mason jars or old bottles for serving and include syrup flavours that your guests can mix into their drinks.
• Create classic mocktail pairings with the food you serve. For example, serve non-alcoholic mojitos with crab or non-alcoholic daiquiris with oysters.
• Pop open some sparkling cider. It is just as bubbly as champagne and will look the same when poured into a champagne glass.
• Set up a tea station, especially if your wedding is during the colder months. Provide a variety of teas, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, and ensure every flavour is clearly marked.
• Host a coffee bar with custom coffee drinks, desserts, and Italian sodas.
• Offer tea, water, sodas, and sparkling cider.
• Serve non-alcoholic beers and wines.
• Provide juices and smoothies.
• Set up an old-fashioned soda fountain experience with floats, malts, and milkshakes.
• Create mocktail versions of classic cocktails like virgin daiquiris, piña coladas, and Bloody Marys, or come up with new concoctions that can be your signature drinks.
• For toasts, offer non-alcoholic sparkling drinks such as sparkling cider, apple juice, grape juice, flavoured seltzer water, mock mimosas (orange juice with ginger ale), or sodas.

Frequently asked questions