There are a few ways to run an open bar at a wedding. Typically, when you book through a venue that has a bar, it’ll provide the necessities your guests will need for the night. If you’re not booking a facility with a bar available, you’ll have to shop to stock up and prepare the open bar. You’ll most likely save money in the long run, but it can also add to your stress.
That’s why this blog is going to cover the latter situation. We’ll share the essential items you need to have for a successful open bar at your wedding.
Enough Alcohol for Guests
One party mistake is running out of alcohol during the party. You don’t want your guests to remember that your reception ran out of wine, beer, or liquor before the party was over.
Serving only beer and wine will make it simpler to figure out how much alcohol you’ll need. If you start adding in cocktails, you’ll have to ensure you have all the ingredients for each drink. Here are a few questions to answer before you run to the store:
- How many guests are you inviting?
- What alcohol will you serve?
- How long do you plan the reception to last?
- Are you having a champagne toast?
- How heavily do your guests drink?
Here’s a quick example breakdown list of a wedding with about 100 guests in which the host will serve beer, wine, and a champagne toast.
- 17 champagne bottles (750 mL)
- 20 bottles of red wine (750 mL)
- 16 bottles of white wine (750 mL)
- 4 bottles of rosé or sparkling wine (750 mL)
- 200 cans or bottles of beer
Other Supplies You’ll Need
You’ll need to see if your reception facility has mini-fridges to keep the beverages frosty throughout the night. If it doesn’t have them, then you’ll need large coolers and enough ice. Reserve the ice buckets for ice that will go in drinks. You’ll need enough containers for garnishes if you’re serving cocktails and cocktail napkins. Invest in personalized cocktail napkins as a cute, individualized touch. Don’t forget about the cocktail straws and stirrers.
Prep the bar with enough corkscrews and bottle openers for each bartender. Have a few extras just in case one breaks. Don’t forget the strainers, muddles, and shakers if you’re serving cocktails. Ensure you have the proper glassware for each drink type. Decide if you want to invest in glass or plastic stemware that resembles glass.
Concluding Thoughts
You’ll probably feel overwhelmed as you begin stocking the bar. However, following the above list will help keep you on track and organized. Stocking the open bar with all the essential items will result in a successful wedding reception.
Don’t forget to decorate your bar and create a unique space for friends and family to gather and celebrate your marriage.