Franklin Dean
Kegs at weddings are a popular choice for couples looking for a cost-effective way to serve alcohol at their wedding. While some people may argue that kegs are tacky for weddings, many people opt for them anyway. The number of kegs you need depends on the number of guests and their drinking preferences. You can keep the kegs cold in a garbage can full of ice, wrapped in tablecloths, or in a keg fridge.
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What You'll Learn
Keeping kegs cool at a wedding
Kegs are a great way to serve drinks at a wedding, but they can be tricky to keep cool, especially in hot weather. Here are some tips to keep your kegs cool and your guests happy:
- Use a keg fridge: If you have access to a keg fridge, this is an ideal way to keep your kegs cool. You can rent or purchase a keg fridge specifically for your wedding, or you may be able to borrow one from a friend or family member, as one person did by using their in-laws' keg fridge.
- Ice and linens: If you don't have access to a keg fridge, you can create your own cooling system by using ice and linens. Put the keg in a garbage can or bucket full of ice, then wrap the can or bucket with linens to create a stylish and functional cooler. This method will help to keep the keg cool while also tying it into the decor of your wedding.
- Insulated containers: Another option is to purchase or rent insulated containers specifically designed to keep kegs cool. These containers will help to regulate the temperature and keep the kegs cool for a longer period of time. They come in various colours and styles, so you can choose one that fits your wedding theme.
- Calculate the amount: It is important to calculate the amount of alcohol required for the wedding. This will help in avoiding wastage. One caterer suggested that an average of two drinks per hour per person is ideal.
- Customized sunglasses: To beat the heat, you can customize sunglasses with your wedding logo or initials for your guests to wear during the outdoor ceremony and on the dance floor. This will not only keep them cool but also add a unique touch to your wedding favours.
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How many kegs to buy for a wedding
When planning a wedding, it is important to consider your guests' preferences. Some of your guests may prefer to stick to non-alcoholic drinks, so it's a good idea to provide some alcoholic substitutes, such as beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beer and wine, as well as mixers and garnishes. You may also want to include mocktails so that your guests can make a choice that suits their tastes and still feel included in the festivities.
The number of kegs you will need for your wedding will depend on several factors, such as the number of guests, the duration of the event, and the drinking habits of your guests. A standard keg contains 125 drinks or 165 12-ounce cups, which is approximately 150 servings.
If you are having around 100 guests, it is recommended to have two kegs, especially if most of them are heavy beer drinkers. You can also provide other alcoholic beverages, such as rum, vodka, and mixers, as well as non-alcoholic options. If you have a larger group of 150 guests, you may consider having two to four kegs, depending on whether your guests prefer beer or wine.
To keep the kegs cold, you can place them in a garbage can full of ice and wrap the can with linens to hide the ugly container. You can also use a keg fridge or a bucket with ice, ensuring that the setup blends with your wedding decor.
It is always better to have leftover beer than to run out, so consider your guests' drinking habits and the availability of other beverage options when deciding on the number of kegs to buy for your wedding.
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Serving drinks from a keg
Keeping the Keg Cold
One of the challenges of serving drinks from a keg is keeping the beverage cold without compromising the aesthetic of your wedding. A common solution is to place the keg in a new trash can filled with ice. You can then wrap the trash can with linens or tablecloths that match your wedding decor to hide the keg and keep it cold. Another option is to use a keg fridge or invest in an insulated container specifically designed to keep kegs cold.
Dispensing the Drinks
There are several ways to dispense drinks from a keg. The most basic method is to use hand or picnic pumps, but this introduces oxygen into the keg, causing the beverage to lose its carbonation and freshness over time. A better option is to use a CO2-based system, which keeps the beverage carbonated, fresh, and easy to pour. You can also consider using a party faucet or event faucet, which can be set up directly on the keg or through a hole drilled in a table for a more elegant look. Another option is to build a custom bar with holes in the back wall for the beer shanks, creating a freestanding bar that dispenses drinks from the kegs.
Hiring a Bartender
While self-serve kegs may be more cost-effective, it is recommended to hire a licensed bartender to serve the drinks. This adds a touch of elegance to your wedding and ensures that alcohol is served responsibly. Having a bartender can also speed up serving time, especially if they pour drinks into pitchers before serving, reducing on/off cycles and excessive head.
Estimating the Amount
When it comes to estimating how much beer you will need, a good rule of thumb is to plan for two drinks per hour per person. For a wedding with 150 guests, two to four kegs are typically sufficient, depending on the drinking preferences of your guests. It is better to overestimate and have leftover beer than to run out during the celebration.
Glassware and Variety
Consider providing mason jars or elegant glassware for guests to use instead of plastic cups, which can be less environmentally friendly and may detract from the aesthetic of your wedding. If you're only serving beer from kegs, you may also want to provide a variety of other drinks, such as wine, specialty cocktails, or bottled beers, to cater to different tastes.
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Hiring a bartender for a wedding
If you're planning on having kegs at your wedding, you'll need to think about how to keep them cold and well-presented. One option is to use a keg fridge, if you can get your hands on one. Alternatively, you could put the keg in a bucket or garbage can full of ice, and then wrap the container in table linens to hide the ice and create a more elegant look.
Now, onto hiring a bartender for your wedding. This is an important consideration to ensure your wedding day runs smoothly and that your guests are well looked after. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Research and Planning
Firstly, it's essential to plan well in advance. A good rule of thumb is to have your bartender selected at least six months before your wedding day. This gives you time to research and find the best bartender for your needs. Consider whether you want a simple bar service or if you'd like to offer signature cocktails or flair bartending entertainment. These specialized services can add to the cost, but they also enhance the guest experience.
Cost and Budgeting
Speaking of cost, hiring a bartender for a wedding can be expensive, and it's important to budget carefully. The price will depend on factors such as the bartender's skill level, the services offered, and any additional costs like setup, travel, or equipment rental. Intermediate bartenders typically charge around $40 to $75 per hour, while advanced or flair bartenders can charge $75 to $150 or more per hour. Don't forget to factor in the cost of alcohol, mixers, ice, glassware, and any other necessary items.
Venue and Vendor Considerations
If you've chosen a full-service venue, they may have staff bartenders or a list of preferred bar service vendors they can recommend. These bartenders will already be familiar with the venue and its rules, which can be advantageous. Your wedding planner or caterer may also have connections to bartenders or bartending services they can suggest. When hiring a bartender, it's worth investing in someone with experience, as they will be able to work efficiently and manage the bar professionally.
Legal and Insurance Requirements
It's crucial to abide by local and state liquor laws. Most state regulations require anyone serving alcohol at a licensed venue to be TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) certified or to hold equivalent certification. Make sure to verify the bartender's certifications and insurance before hiring.
Managing Expectations
When it comes to alcohol quantities, it's generally recommended to estimate an average of two drinks per hour per person. This may vary depending on your guest list and their drinking preferences. It's better to have leftover alcohol than to run out, but do consider if you'll be able to return any unopened bottles or unused kegs.
By following these guidelines and planning ahead, you can ensure that your wedding bar is well-staffed and stocked, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.
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Cost-effectiveness of kegs at a wedding
Kegs are a cost-effective option for serving beer at a wedding, especially if you have a large number of guests. They are also more environmentally friendly than cans or bottles, which can be a consideration for some couples.
One of the main benefits of kegs is the volume of beer they provide. A half-barrel keg typically serves around 140-150 people, which is far more cost-effective than buying individual cans or bottles of beer. For example, one couple with 100 guests who drink decided on two kegs and some wine, with specialty drinks available for purchase. They estimated that they would need three kegs for 150 guests, along with two specialty drinks.
However, it is worth noting that not everyone will drink beer, and some may not consume alcohol at all. In addition, with kegs, you have less variety in terms of serving options. You could get 2-3 smaller kegs to increase variety, but this may reduce the cost-effectiveness.
Another consideration is the equipment needed to serve the beer. You will need a tub to store the keg in, and it must be surrounded by ice to keep the beer cold. You can use a hand pump or a jockey box as a mobile tap system. Some couples have also used keg fridges or buckets with ice to keep the kegs cold. Linens or tablecloths can be used to wrap the kegs and ice to improve the appearance.
Finally, it is worth noting that any leftover beer in the kegs will likely go to waste, as they need to be returned regardless of how much beer is left. This could be a significant consideration if you are trying to decide between kegs and bottles, as unopened bottles can often be returned.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the number of guests and their drinking preferences. A rule of thumb is that a half-barrel keg will provide 150 servings. If you're expecting 150 guests, it's recommended to get 2-4 kegs. If you're expecting 200-225 guests, 2-3 kegs should be enough.
A popular method is to place the keg in a new trash can filled with ice. You can then hook up your system and serve the beer directly from the keg using a faucet. To dress it up, put the keg under a table and drill a hole for the dispense hose and faucet to come through, or use a Jockey Box to dispense the beer. Alternatively, you can use a fridge or shank kit to build a customised bar.
Having a bartender can add a touch of elegance to your wedding and prevent it from looking like a "keg party". It also ensures that beer is served efficiently and limits alcohol consumption. Some venues may require a licensed bartender with insurance on-site, and it's important to comply with local laws regarding alcohol distribution.
