The Open Bar Wedding: To Do Or Not To Do?

should I make my wedding open bar

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when it comes to deciding whether to have an open bar or not. An open bar at a wedding is when the couple pays for all their guests' drinks, meaning no money is exchanged between the guest and bartender. While this can offer a great experience for guests, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the cost of an open bar can quickly add up, depending on the number of guests, venue pricing, bar menu, and quality of alcohol served. Secondly, there is a risk of guests overindulging, which may put a damper on the big day. However, careful planning and hiring experienced bartenders can help mitigate these concerns. Ultimately, the decision to have an open bar depends on the couple's budget and preferences, and there are modified open bar options available to suit different needs.

Characteristics Values
Cost Expensive, especially with a large guest list
Guest expectations May vary depending on region, with cash bars being more common in the UK than in North America
Guest experience Open bars are more convenient for guests, who don't need to bring cash or cards
Guest behaviour Open bars may lead to overconsumption and rowdy behaviour
Planning Open bars are less work for the couple getting married

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Cost

The cost of an open bar at a wedding is a major consideration for couples. Alcohol can be one of the largest expenses, and costs can quickly rack up. The number of guests, the type of alcohol served, and the duration of the open bar will all impact the final bill.

The cost of an open bar depends on several factors, including the number of guests, the type of alcohol served, and the duration of the open bar. The more guests in attendance, the higher the bill is likely to be. Venues and catering companies often charge per person, with prices varying depending on the drinks included.

A limited open bar serving only beer and wine can cost between $15 and $20 per person. A full open bar with limited beer and wine options can range from $20 to $35 per person, while a premium open bar can cost between $35 and $45 per person.

Saving Money on an Open Bar

There are ways to save money on an open bar. One option is to bring your own alcohol, although not all venues allow this. Buying alcohol yourself can save money, especially if you can find venues that allow outside food and alcohol and don't charge a corkage fee.

Another option is to have a partially open bar, where guests receive a limited number of complimentary drink tickets and then pay for additional drinks. This can help regulate alcohol consumption and reduce costs.

Other Costs to Consider

In addition to the cost of alcohol, other expenses to consider include bartending services, tips, glassware, labour, gratuity, and insurance. Some venues may include these in their package, while others may charge extra. It's important to carefully review the contract and ask about any additional fees to avoid unexpected costs.

While an open bar can be a generous gesture to your guests, it's important to consider the costs carefully. By evaluating the options, creating a clear budget, and exploring cost-saving measures, couples can make an informed decision about whether an open bar is the right choice for their wedding.

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Guest expectations

Guests' expectations of an open bar at a wedding differ depending on their culture, region, and personal beliefs. Some people believe that it is rude to have a cash bar at a wedding, while others find it acceptable as long as they are informed in advance.

In some regions, an open bar is expected and not having one can be considered a breach of etiquette. For example, in certain circles, it is considered rude to host an event and expect guests to pay for their drinks, especially if they are also bringing gifts. In these cases, not providing an open bar could create a negative impression and potentially cause drama during the wedding.

On the other hand, there are regions where cash bars are the norm, and guests do not expect free-flowing alcohol. For instance, in the UK, it is typical to have a cash bar, and guests do not usually expect an open bar.

Additionally, some guests may have specific expectations based on their personal beliefs. For instance, some people may expect an open bar if the wedding has a particular theme, such as a Great Gatsby-themed wedding, where the free flow of drinks is part of the experience.

It is also worth noting that guests' expectations may be influenced by the guest list. If the majority of guests are big drinkers, they may anticipate an open bar to satisfy their drinking preferences. On the other hand, if the guest list includes mostly conservative individuals, they may not expect an open bar and may even prefer a more restricted drinking environment.

To manage guest expectations, it is essential to communicate the bar arrangements clearly and in advance. This can be done through the wedding website, invitation suite, or word of mouth. By providing this information, guests can come prepared, whether they need to bring cash or can expect their drinks to be covered.

Ultimately, the decision to have an open bar or not depends on various factors, including budget, guest list, and regional and cultural norms. While some guests may expect an open bar, others may be understanding of a cash bar as long as they are given a heads-up.

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Guest behaviour

Firstly, it's important to know your guests. If you have a lot of rowdy guests, or a group of wild friends, an open bar may lead to overindulgence and rowdiness. On the other hand, if you have a conservative crowd, an open bar may help them loosen up and create a fun, party atmosphere.

If you have a mix of drinkers and non-drinkers, you could consider a limited bar, which offers a limited selection of alcohol, such as beer and wine only, or includes a few cocktail options. This can help keep costs down and ensure that non-drinkers aren't paying for something they won't use.

Another option is to have an open bar for part of the wedding and then switch to a cash bar. This can help prevent guests from taking advantage of an open bar all night and can also help you manage your budget. However, it's important to notify guests ahead of time so they know to bring cash.

Some guests may take advantage of an open bar, leading to overconsumption and overindulgence. This can be mitigated by hiring an experienced bartender who can slow guests down and ensure the night doesn't get out of hand.

Ultimately, the decision to have an open bar at your wedding depends on your budget and your guests. If you can afford it and think your guests will enjoy it, go for it! If you're worried about cost or guest behaviour, there are plenty of alternative options to consider.

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Venue rules

The rules and regulations surrounding alcohol at your wedding venue are an important consideration when deciding on an open bar. Some venues require the use of their in-house bar services, while others may allow you to bring your own alcohol or hire an off-site bartender. It is crucial to clarify these rules beforehand to avoid any issues on your big day.

If your venue has specific requirements, such as using their alcohol or bartending services, it will impact the overall cost of your open bar. In-house bar services often come with additional fees, such as setup or teardown charges, gratuity, and other hidden expenses. These extra costs can quickly add up, so be sure to ask about them when discussing open bar options with your venue.

Another critical aspect to consider is whether your venue allows outside food and alcohol. Some venues may charge a corkage fee if you bring your own drinks, which can eat into your budget. Additionally, certain venues might have restrictions on the types of alcohol allowed, such as limiting hard liquor or requiring the use of specific vendors. Understanding these limitations will help you plan accordingly and decide if an open bar is feasible within your chosen venue's rules.

When discussing open bar options with your venue, be sure to ask about their consumption rate, which is the estimated number of drinks per guest per hour. This information will help you estimate the amount of alcohol needed and manage your budget effectively. You should also inquire about their policies on unused drinks, as some venues may allow you to return unopened bottles, which can save you money.

Lastly, don't forget to ask about their policies regarding non-drinking guests. Some venues may offer the option to exclude these guests from the open bar cost, helping you reduce expenses. By understanding the venue's rules and restrictions, you can make an informed decision about whether an open bar is the right choice for your wedding.

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Guest numbers

The number of guests you're inviting to your wedding will have a huge impact on the cost of an open bar. The more guests you have, the more you'll pay.

If you're on a tight budget, you could consider a "limited bar", which serves only beer and wine, or includes a few cocktail options. This is usually cheaper than a "full bar", which offers a wider variety of beer and wine options, as well as a full liquor supply.

Here's a rough guide to the costs you can expect:

  • Limited open bar — beer and wine only: $15-$20 per person
  • Full open bar with limited beer and wine options: $20-35 per person
  • Full, premium open bar: $35-45 per person

If you're inviting, say, 100 guests, you could be looking at a bill of $1,500 to $4,500 for a limited open bar, or $2,000 to $3,500 for a full open bar.

If you're worried about costs, there are a few ways to keep them down. One option is to have an open bar for the cocktail hour, then switch to a cash bar for the rest of the evening. Alternatively, you could give each guest 2-3 complimentary drink tickets, after which they have to pay for their own drinks.

Another option is to bring your own alcohol, if your venue allows it. This can save you a lot of money, as venues often charge a high markup on drinks. You could also save money by booking a dry-hire bartending service, which doesn't carry a liquor license but can buy the alcohol for you.

Whatever option you choose, make sure you communicate it clearly to your guests, either on your wedding website or invitation suite. That way, they know whether to bring cash, and there are no unwelcome surprises on the day.

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Frequently asked questions

There are several pros to an open bar at a wedding. It's a nice gesture to your guests, who won't need to bring cash or cards, and it can help create a fun, party atmosphere. However, it can be very expensive, and guests may take advantage, leading to overconsumption and a large bill.

Providing a cash bar for attendees isn't tacky, but not telling them ahead of time is. Make sure you notify guests on your invitations or wedding website so they can prepare accordingly.

One way to save money is to bring your own alcohol, if the venue allows it. You could also use drink tickets to regulate a partially open bar, providing each guest with 2-3 complimentary drinks.

As a general rule of thumb, plan to serve one drink per guest per hour.

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