Junior Rasmussen
While some people opt to serve kegs of beer at their wedding, others choose bottled beer instead. Some couples decide against kegs because they believe they may not be suitable for the venue or the theme of the wedding. For example, kegs may be considered inappropriate for an upscale wedding venue. Additionally, couples may want to avoid any leftover beer going to waste, which is more likely with kegs than bottles. Kegs may also limit the variety of beer available to guests. In contrast, bottles are often considered more convenient, especially if the wedding is in a hard-to-reach location, and they allow for easier portion control.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Presentation | Some people think kegs are tacky and not suitable for weddings, especially if they are visible and look like kegs used at frat parties. |
| Variety | Kegs offer less variety than bottles/cans, which can be important for pleasing all guests. |
| Cost | Kegs may be more cost-effective than bottles, but unused beer in a keg will go to waste, while unused bottles can be taken home. |
| Efficiency | Kegs may result in longer wait times at the bar, especially if there are not enough bartenders or the bartenders are inexperienced. |
| Logistics | The venue may not have the capability to dress up a keg or hide it from view. Kegs may also require additional staff and glassware rental, increasing costs. |
| Portability | Bottles/cans are more portable and can be served anywhere, while kegs may require a draft system and a power source. |
| Personal Preference | Some people prefer the look and feel of bottles/cans, especially if they have sentimental value or are part of wedding favors. |
| Guest Preferences | Not all guests will drink beer, and some may prefer a variety of beverages, including wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic options. |
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What You'll Learn
Cost: Kegs may be more expensive and wasteful
While some people opt for kegs at their wedding, others believe that bottles or cans are a better choice. One reason for this is cost. Some people believe that kegs may be more expensive and wasteful.
Firstly, kegs are typically large, and it is difficult to estimate how much beer your guests will consume. Kegs usually contain 55 servings, and while some people prefer to have leftover beer rather than run out, others have found that they were left with a lot of beer that went to waste. This is especially true for smaller weddings, where even a small keg may create waste. In this case, bottles are a better option, as you can buy in multiples of 6 or 12, and any unused bottles can be taken home.
Secondly, if your wedding is in a hard-to-reach spot, bottles are a more convenient option, as they do not require the expense or trouble of setting up a draft system. Basic draft systems use hand or picnic pumps, which introduce oxygen into the keg, meaning the beer must be consumed quickly before it gets oxygenated and flat. More advanced systems use CO2 to keep the beer carbonated and fresh, but these are more expensive.
Thirdly, bottles and cans offer more variety than kegs. With bottles, you can offer a big selection without having to worry about leftovers. You can also buy by the case to offset the cost, although this will limit your flavours. With kegs, it is recommended that you commit to drafting all of your beer, which may be an issue if you want to offer a range of beers.
Finally, bottles are a better option if you have hired a rookie bartender, as it is much easier to mess up drafting a beer than opening a bottle.
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Variety: Bottles offer more variety
When it comes to wedding drinks, variety is key. You want to ensure that all your guests' tastes are catered to, and bottles offer a wider range of options than kegs.
Firstly, bottles allow you to buy in smaller quantities. Kegs typically come in large sizes, and if you're hosting a smaller wedding, you may find that a lot of beer goes to waste. With bottles, you can purchase by the case, or even by the bottle, ensuring that you have just the right amount and a good variety.
Secondly, bottles give you access to a broader range of beers. Many craft breweries and small-batch producers only offer canned or bottled beer, and you may find that your favourite microbrewery doesn't offer kegs. By choosing bottles, you can support local or independent brewers and offer your guests a unique drinking experience.
Bottles also allow you to easily offer a range of beer styles and strengths. You can provide a selection of light and regular beers, as well as ciders and non-alcoholic options, ensuring that all your guests can find something to suit their tastes.
In addition, bottles are a more beginner-friendly option. If you're hiring a rookie bartender or asking a friend to help out, bottles are much simpler to pour and serve than drafting from a keg. This can help ensure a smooth and efficient bar service during your wedding.
Finally, bottles are a great way to avoid waste. Any unused bottles can be saved for later or given to guests to take home, whereas leftover beer in a keg is likely to go to waste.
So, if you're looking to offer a diverse and appealing beer selection at your wedding, bottles are a fantastic choice. They provide flexibility, variety, and the opportunity to support small businesses, all while ensuring your guests have a memorable drinking experience.
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Presentation: Kegs may not fit the wedding aesthetic
The presentation of kegs at a wedding is a key consideration for couples. Some couples prefer to avoid the look of a keg at their wedding, particularly if it resembles a keg used at a frat party.
One option to maintain the desired aesthetic is to hide the keg, for example, by placing it under a table and drilling a hole for the dispense hose and faucet to come through. Alternatively, a Jockey Box can be used to dispense the beer. Another option is to use a fridge or shank kit, which can be used to build a customised bar that fits the wedding theme. A third option is to use a tower kit, where only the beer tower is visible to guests, with the kegs hidden.
Couples may also choose to dress up the keg by putting it in a new trash can with ice, or another vessel that fits the wedding theme. This can be placed anywhere and served from directly using a party faucet.
Some couples may prefer the look of bottles or cans of beer over kegs, particularly if they want to offer a variety of beer choices. Bottles and cans can also be returned if unused, whereas leftover beer in a keg will likely go to waste.
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Bartenders: Drafting from a keg is harder than pouring bottles
While some people opt for kegs of beer at their wedding, others prefer bottles or cans. Some venues may not serve kegs of beer due to the challenges associated with drafting from a keg, which requires additional skills and time compared to simply pouring bottles. Here are some reasons why drafting from a keg may be harder for bartenders than pouring bottles:
Requires Additional Skills
Drafting beer from a keg requires specific skills that not all bartenders may possess. It is a more complex process than simply opening and pouring a bottle, and it is easier to mess up. Drafting involves using a tap system, controlling the flow rate, and ensuring the beer is dispensed at the correct temperature and carbonation level. These factors can affect the quality and taste of the beer.
Potential for Longer Wait Times
Pouring beer from a keg can potentially result in longer wait times for guests at the bar. Drafting from a keg may take longer than simply grabbing a bottle and cracking it open, especially if the bartender is inexperienced or if there is a high demand for beer. This could lead to longer lines and potentially frustrated guests.
Waste and Leftovers
Kegs typically come in larger sizes, and if not properly estimated, can result in a significant amount of waste. Unused beer in a keg often goes to waste, whereas unused bottles or cans can be saved, stored, or even returned, depending on local laws and retailer policies. With bottles, it is easier to estimate the amount needed and avoid excessive leftovers.
Limited Variety
When serving beer from a keg, the variety of options may be limited compared to bottles or cans. With bottles, it is easier to offer a wider selection of beer choices without committing to a large quantity of each type. This can be advantageous when trying to cater to different tastes and preferences among the wedding guests.
Setup and Presentation
Setting up a draft beer system can be more complex and require additional equipment, such as taps, faucets, hoses, and coolers. This may involve additional costs and logistical considerations. Additionally, some couples may prefer the presentation of bottles or cans on display rather than a visible keg, especially if it is challenging to “dress up” or conceal the keg effectively.
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Calculating amounts: It's hard to calculate how much beer is needed
One of the most challenging aspects of planning a wedding is calculating how much beer is needed, especially when serving from kegs. It's important to be as accurate as possible when determining the number of guests and their drinking preferences to ensure enough drinks for everyone.
There are many factors that influence the amount of beer consumed at a wedding, such as the time of day, temperature, menu, and formality of the event, as well as the average age of the guests. For example, a wedding with an older demographic may have fewer beer drinkers, while a younger crowd may prefer beer over wine or cocktails.
Online calculators and wedding planners can assist in estimating the quantity of drinks needed. As a rule of thumb, the average wedding guest consumes approximately two alcoholic beverages during cocktail hour. So, for every 100 guests, 50 bottles of wine or 25 bottles of beer are typically required. However, if only beer and wine are served, 35% of the drinks consumed are estimated to be beer.
Another consideration is whether to offer a variety of beers. While kegs may be more cost-effective for large groups, bottles or cans offer greater variety and can be more suitable for smaller, intimate weddings. With bottles, it's easier to curate a menu that pleases all guests and prevents leftovers. Additionally, unused bottles can be saved or returned, whereas leftover beer in a keg is likely to go to waste.
Ultimately, the decision between kegs, bottles, or cans depends on the wedding's theme, budget, and the couple's preference. It's important to plan carefully to ensure a well-stocked bar and a memorable celebration.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding venues do serve kegs of beer. However, couples may opt for bottles or cans instead of kegs to offer variety, save money, or ensure efficient service.
Bottles and cans offer more variety, as couples can select multiple brands and types of beer. They also reduce waste, as unused bottles can be returned or taken home, whereas leftover beer in a keg will likely go to waste. Additionally, bottles and cans are easier to serve, especially if the bartender is inexperienced, and they are generally faster to pour and distribute to guests.
The number of kegs required depends on the number of guests and their drinking preferences. On average, wedding guests consume approximately two alcoholic beverages during cocktail hour. For 100 guests, two kegs are typically sufficient, but some couples opt for three to ensure they do not run out.
