Deborah Chan
A wedding bar is a fun addition to your big day, but it can be tricky to know what to include. You'll need to consider the season, style, and guest count, as well as your budget. The basics include beer, wine, and liquor, with vodka being the most popular choice. You may also want to include cocktails, mocktails, and a variety of garnishes. If you're not sure how much alcohol to buy, you can use an online wedding drink calculator or ask a professional bartender for advice.
What do I need for a wedding bar?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcoholic drinks | Beer, wine, liquor (vodka, whiskey, bourbon, gin, rum, tequila, scotch, malt) |
| Non-alcoholic drinks | Mocktails, hard seltzer, cider, cocktails |
| Glassware | Wine glasses, copper moscow mule mugs |
| Garnishes | Lemons, limes, oranges, olives, bar onions, cherries |
| Other | Bottle openers, muddlers, strainers |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol types and brands
When it comes to alcohol types and brands for a wedding bar, there is no standard, as it depends on various factors such as guest preferences, wedding style, and budget. However, here is a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions.
Firstly, it is essential to have a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to cater to diverse preferences. The recommended mix for alcoholic drinks is 50% liquor, 25% beer, and 25% wine. For liquor, vodka is the most popular choice due to its versatility and popularity among guests. Suggested vodka brands include Tito's and Absolut, with the former being a popular, mid-priced option. Whiskey, specifically Irish whiskey, is another favoured liquor, often enjoyed as whiskey mules or Old Fashioneds. For a budget-friendly option, consider Skyy vodka.
If you want to offer a variety of liquors, gin and rum are excellent additions. Gin is perfect for fancy cocktails, while rum, particularly a lighter variety like Mount Gay, adds colour and flavour to mixed drinks. Tequila is another option, but it tends to be consumed as shots, which are not encouraged at weddings. If you opt for tequila, consider a premium brand like Don Q or a mid-priced option like Suerte Reposado. Bourbon is a crowd favourite and can be easily interchanged with whiskey on the menu. For bourbon, consider Makers Mark or Woodford Reserve as premium options or Jim Bean as a standard choice.
When selecting wines, it is customary to offer both red and white options, with a 50/50 split. Cabernet and Chardonnay are safe bets for red and white, respectively. If you want to offer a third wine option, a sweet white wine like Moscato or Riesling is ideal, especially during the summer. For beer, it is common to provide one domestic and one imported option.
Lastly, consider including cocktails, such as signature or craft cocktails, to add a unique touch to your wedding bar. Signature cocktails can be personalised to match your wedding theme, and craft cocktails can entertain your guests during the time between the ceremony and reception. However, it is recommended to offer only a few craft cocktails, as too much variety can slow down bar service.
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Glassware
It's worth noting that you don't need to provide specialised glassware for every type of drink. For instance, champagne can be served in regular wine glasses if flutes are not available. Similarly, if you're serving beer, you can opt for simple pint glasses or even plastic cups, depending on your preference and the level of formality of your wedding.
When deciding on the glassware for your wedding bar, it's important to consider the types of drinks you'll be serving. A typical wedding bar often includes beer, wine, and liquor, with cocktails and champagne toasts also being popular choices. By understanding the drinks you plan to offer, you can ensure you have the appropriate glassware to match.
To save costs, you can opt for disposable or reusable plastic cups instead of glassware. This option can be more convenient and reduce the risk of broken glassware at your event. However, if you prefer the elegance and sophistication of glass, renting glassware is also an option. Many rental companies offer a variety of glassware options, from elegant champagne flutes to sturdy beer mugs, ensuring your wedding bar is both functional and stylish.
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Garnishes
Firstly, the most common garnishes for a wedding bar are citrus fruits, namely lemons and limes. These fruits are versatile and can be used in various drinks, from cocktails to beer and bubbly. You can cut them into wedges or slices, or even twist them over drinks to release their essential oils for a more intense flavour. They also add a pop of colour to the drinks, making them visually appealing.
Secondly, consider seasonal garnishes to elevate your drinks and create a unique experience. For example, fresh berries in the summer or autumn spices in the fall can add a seasonal twist to your cocktails. Herbs like mint, basil or rosemary can also be used to add a fresh, aromatic touch to your drinks. If you're serving a signature cocktail, you can even prepare custom garnishes that complement the flavours of the drink.
Thirdly, don't be afraid to get creative with your garnishes. While citrus fruits are classic, you can explore other options such as edible flowers, which add a delicate and romantic touch to the drinks. You could also use produce that complements the colours of your wedding theme, creating a cohesive and stylish presentation.
Finally, prepare your garnishes in advance as much as possible to save time during the event. Cut and store the fruit in airtight containers, and if using herbs, keep them fresh and hydrated. You can even create simple syrup-based infusions with herbs to extend their shelf life and make it easier for your bartenders to use them in cocktails.
Remember to keep your garnishes consistent with the drinks you're serving and the overall theme of your wedding. They should enhance the flavour and presentation of the drinks, creating a memorable experience for your guests.
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Budgeting
Determine the Type of Bar:
Firstly, decide on the type of bar you want at your wedding. You can choose between a full open bar, a limited bar, or a cash bar. An open bar means you cover all the drink costs, while a limited bar typically includes beer and wine and a couple of basic liquors. With a cash bar, your guests pay for their drinks, which can help reduce your expenses.
Guest Count and Drinking Habits:
The number of guests you invite will directly impact your budget. Consider the number of guests and their drinking habits. If you have a large guest list, you'll need to stock the bar with more drinks. Additionally, consider the season and wedding style—warmer months and outdoor weddings may require more refreshing drinks.
Alcohol Choices:
The type of alcohol you choose can significantly impact your budget. Beer, wine, and liquor are the basics for a wedding bar. You can offer a variety of beers, including craft beers, domestic beers, and summer ciders. For wine, plan to have at least one red and one white, and consider a third sweeter option like Moscato or Riesling. If you want to include liquor, vodka is the most popular choice as it's versatile and mixes well with various flavours. Whiskey and bourbon are also common choices.
Signature Cocktails and Mocktails:
Signature cocktails can add a personalised touch to your wedding bar. Consider offering two to three craft cocktails to keep the menu simple. Mocktails are also a great option, especially for non-alcoholic alternatives or for guests who prefer something different.
Glassware and Extras:
Don't forget to budget for glassware and other extras. You'll need a variety of glasses for different drinks, and you may also want to invest in some elaborate glassware, such as copper Moscow mule mugs, to elevate your drink presentation.
Professional Bar Services:
Consider hiring a professional bar service or a mobile bartending service. They can provide guidance on stock quantities and help you refine your shopping list within your budget. They may also offer packages that include glassware and other bar essentials.
Remember, it's essential to stay within your budget, but also ensure you have enough drinks to keep the celebrations going throughout the reception. By planning carefully and considering the preferences of your guests, you can create a wedding bar that fits within your financial plan.
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Bar service
A bar service is a great addition to a wedding, but it can be tricky to know where to start. Firstly, decide on a bar type that suits your wedding style and budget. You could opt for a professional bar service or a DIY wedding bar. If you are bringing your own alcohol, check with the venue if they charge a corkage fee.
For a well-stocked bar, the basics are beer and wine, and often liquor is added. Vodka is a popular choice as it is light and mixes well with most flavours. Whiskey is also a popular choice, and you could offer a variety of whiskeys or bourbons. Gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey are other options for white alcohol. However, gin may be an unpopular choice, and tequila could get guests too drunk, too quickly. If you want to offer a wider variety of drinks, you could include hard seltzers, ciders, or cocktails. Cocktails add a fun element to your wedding, and you could even create signature cocktails to personalize your wedding.
When it comes to quantities, it is important to calculate how many drinks you will be serving to avoid running out or wasting money on excess alcohol. The amount of alcohol you need will depend on the number of guests, the season, and the wedding style. You don't want to run out of liquor, so it is recommended to buy more than you think you need, especially for popular choices like vodka. For a summer wedding, you will likely need more white wine, beer, and refreshing cocktails. Don't forget to include non-alcoholic options like mocktails, and garnishes such as lemons, limes, and olives.
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Frequently asked questions
The drinks you serve will depend on the preferences of your guests, but the basics to stock any wedding bar are beer and wine. You could also add liquor to the mix, with vodka being the most popular choice. If you're looking to save money, you may be able to skip buying fancy extras like muddlers and strainers and stick to simple drinks.
The amount of alcohol you buy will depend on the number of guests, the season, and the wedding style. You can use a wedding alcohol calculator to help you determine how many drinks you'll be serving. You don't want to run out of liquor halfway through your reception, but you also don't want to buy more than you need.
In addition to guest preferences, you should consider the season and the weather. For example, if you're having a summer wedding, you'll likely need more white wine, beer, and refreshing cocktails. You should also think about the cost of the drinks and whether you want to include any special drinks, like signature cocktails or mocktails.
Popular drink options include beer, wine, and liquor. Vodka is a popular choice for liquor, as it is light and mixes well with most flavours. Whiskey is also a popular option, especially Jack Daniels. If you want to include cocktails, you can offer two to three craft cocktails, with no more than five to avoid overwhelming your guests.
