What to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Bartender

When planning your wedding, choosing the right bartender or bartending service is often one of the most important yet overlooked decisions. After all, drinks are an essential part of any celebration—whether it's signature cocktails, a well-stocked bar, or just perfectly poured wine. A great bartender not only serves drinks but also creates an inviting, enjoyable atmosphere, helping to make your guests feel comfortable and engaged throughout the evening.

So how do you choose the right bartender or bartending company for your big day? Here's a helpful guide to navigate this important decision and ensure your wedding bar is everything you've dreamed of.

1. Understand Your Wedding’s Drink Style

The first step in choosing the right bartender or bartending company is to define the style of drinks and bar service that fits your wedding. Are you envisioning a casual beer and wine affair or an elaborate craft cocktail experience? Knowing what you want will help you make the best decision.

• Signature Cocktails: If you're offering unique cocktails, make sure your bartenders are well-versed in mixology and can create those drinks with precision and flair.

• Full Bar Service: If you're offering a wide variety of liquor, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, ensure the bartenders can handle a high volume and are familiar with various types of spirits.

• Beer and Wine Only: For a more relaxed affair, you may opt for a simpler bar service with only wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Here, bartenders should still be friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled in pouring wine and beer, even without mixing cocktails.

• Craft Cocktails or Themed Bar: If you're looking for a more upscale or themed bar experience (e.g., tiki cocktails, prohibition-era drinks), it’s crucial to hire bartenders with experience in crafting unique drinks and engaging guests with their expertise.

2. Look for Experience and Professionalism

Whether you choose an independent bartender or a bartending company, experience and professionalism should be at the top of your list. Bartenders with experience in weddings understand the unique atmosphere of these events and know how to handle a variety of challenges. They also know how to remain calm under pressure and ensure service runs smoothly.

• Experience with Weddings: Ideally, the bartender should have a proven track record of working at weddings. This ensures they know the pace and flow of such events and can handle the timing of drink orders while keeping guests satisfied.

• TIPS Certified (or equivalent): Many bartenders are required to be certified in responsible alcohol service, such as TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures), which ensures they know how to serve alcohol responsibly, check IDs, and manage intoxicated guests.

• References and Reviews: Ask for testimonials or references from other couples they've worked with. Positive feedback from past weddings is a great indicator of their skill and reliability.

• Personality and Attitude: Bartenders at weddings are often the life of the party. You want someone who is not only professional but also engaging and personable. A friendly attitude and strong people skills are essential for making guests feel comfortable and creating a fun environment.

3. Consider Your Wedding Size and Guest Count

The size of your wedding is directly related to how many bartenders you’ll need. If you’re hosting a large wedding, you’ll need a team of bartenders to handle the flow of drink orders, while smaller weddings may only need one or two skilled bartenders.

Here’s a general guideline:

• For weddings with 100-150 guests, you'll likely need at least 2 bartenders to ensure a smooth flow.

• For weddings with 150-250 guests, consider having 3-4 bartenders to avoid long wait times.

• For weddings with 250+ guests, you may need additional bartenders (up to 5 or more) to keep everything running efficiently.

Remember, the more guests you have, the faster the demand for drinks will grow. A good bartender or bartending service will ensure that everyone gets served promptly while still maintaining a high level of service.

4. Check for Flexibility and Customization

Your wedding bar should be as unique as your love story, so look for a bartending service that offers flexibility and customization options.

• Custom Cocktails: Does the bartending service offer the option to create a signature cocktail for your wedding? A personalized drink can add a special touch to your event and is a fun way to incorporate your wedding theme.

• Drink Packages: Some bartending companies offer pre-designed drink packages (e.g., beer, wine, and one or two signature cocktails), while others allow you to create a custom menu based on your preferences. Be sure to ask if they offer packages that suit your needs.

• Non-Alcoholic Options: If you're planning to serve a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensure the bartenders can craft mocktails or other fun non-alcoholic drinks that align with your wedding theme. You don't your pregnant or sober friends to feel left out!

• Equipment and Glassware: Some bartenders or companies will provide their own bar set-up, glassware, and equipment. If you're opting for a more rustic wedding, for example, it might be necessary to rent additional glassware or opt for an “open bar” style with fun elements like mason jars or unique cocktail cups.

5. Discuss Pricing and Packages

Bartending services come in many shapes and sizes, with varying prices depending on location, experience, and service level. Some services offer all-inclusive packages that include bartenders, equipment, mixers, and glassware, while others charge a flat rate per bartender per hour.

• Hourly Rates vs. Flat Rates: Some bartenders charge by the hour, while others charge a flat fee for the event. Be sure to clarify what’s included in the rate and whether any overtime fees will apply.

• Tips and Gratuity: Does the price include tips or is that something guests will need to cover separately? It’s essential to clarify this in advance so there are no surprises.

• Liquor Costs: Will the bartending company provide the alcohol, or will you need to purchase it separately? Some companies will work with your chosen alcohol or offer “liquor packages” to make things easier.

6. Confirm the Setup and Breakdown Process

Ask about the logistical details of the bartending service:

• Setup and Breakdown: Will the bartending service take care of setting up and breaking down the bar area? Some bartenders will bring all necessary equipment, while others may require you to rent or provide certain items.

• Staffing and Uniforms: How many staff members will be present, and what will they wear? A professional appearance is crucial, so make sure the bartenders will be dressed appropriately for the style of your wedding.

7. Don’t Forget the Legalities

Ensure that the bartenders or bartending company is fully licensed to serve alcohol at your venue. If you're serving alcohol at a public venue, the location might require a liquor license, and the bartenders may need to carry insurance.

• Liquor Liability Insurance: Does the bartending company carry insurance in case of accidents or issues related to alcohol consumption?

• License and Permits: Does the bartender or company have the necessary permits to serve alcohol at your venue? If the venue doesn’t provide a licensed bar, this may be something you need to arrange separately.

Choosing the right bartender or bartending company is crucial for ensuring your wedding’s bar is not only functional but also an integral part of the celebration. Whether you’re offering a selection of signature cocktails, a full bar, or a simple beer and wine setup, make sure your bartenders are not only skilled but also professional, personable, and prepared to handle any challenges that come their way.

With the right team behind the bar, your wedding guests will be raising their glasses, enjoying great drinks, and creating unforgettable memories! Cheers to a beautiful celebration!