Planning a wedding is a mix of excitement and stress, and one of the most important aspects is ensuring your guests have a fantastic time—cue the wedding bar service. Whether you want a full open bar, a curated selection of signature cocktails, or a simple beer-and-wine setup, finding the right wedding bartending service can elevate your event and create a memorable experience.
At Tipsy Times, we specialize in bartending services for events, offering fully licensed bar services for wedding near me in Nashville, TN, and surrounding areas. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect wedding bar service, from package options to legal considerations and budgeting tips.
Why a Professional Bar Service Is Essential for Weddings
While some couples consider DIYing their wedding bar, hiring a wedding bartending service ensures a smoother experience for you and your guests. Here’s why:
- Professional bartenders keep the drinks flowing efficiently, avoiding long lines and slow service.
- Licensed services handle legal requirements, ensuring compliance with alcohol laws.
- Expert mixologists craft high-quality cocktails, enhancing your wedding’s aesthetic and experience.
- Less stress for you—no worrying about restocking supplies or handling last-minute beverage mishaps.
- Safety and Responsibility—Professional bartenders are trained to monitor alcohol consumption and handle any intoxicated guests appropriately.
- Customizable Options—A great wedding bar service provides flexibility with drink menus, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic alternatives for guests of all ages.
Wedding Bar Package Options
Your choice of bar packages for weddings will depend on your budget, venue policies, and guest preferences. Here are the most common options:
1. Open Bar
Guests enjoy unlimited drinks, with costs covered by the couple. This is the most popular option for an upscale, all-inclusive experience.
Best for: Large weddings with a party atmosphere.
Tip: If you want an open bar but need to keep costs down, consider offering premium liquor for the first few hours and then switching to house brands.
2. Cash Bar
Guests pay for their own drinks, reducing costs for the couple.
Best for: Budget-conscious weddings or when alcohol is not the main focus.
Tip: A cash bar may be less ideal for formal weddings, where guests might expect complimentary drinks. To compromise, consider offering a few free drink tickets per guest.
3. Limited Bar
Covers specific drink options (e.g., beer, wine, and one or two signature cocktails) while guests pay for additional selections.
Best for: Balancing guest experience and affordability.
Tip: Choose a crowd-pleasing selection, such as a red and white wine, one light and one dark beer, and a signature cocktail to keep the menu simple but appealing.
4. Signature Cocktail Bar
Custom drinks that reflect the couple’s personality. A great way to add a personal touch to your wedding bar service.
Best for: Trendy, themed, or intimate weddings.
Tip: Work with your bartender to create cocktails that match your wedding colors or incorporate ingredients that are meaningful to your relationship.
5. BYOB with Bartending Service
Couples provide their own alcohol, while a wedding bartending service handles pouring and mixing.
Best for: Venues that allow outside alcohol, saving on markup costs.
Tip: If you go with BYOB, make sure you purchase enough alcohol based on your guest count. A common estimate is one drink per guest per hour.
Licensing and Legal Requirements for Alcohol Service at Weddings
Hiring a licensed alcohol vendor for events ensures your wedding complies with local and state liquor laws. Key things to check:
- Liquor License – Does the wedding bartending service have the proper permits?
- Insurance – Ensure liability coverage for alcohol-related incidents.
- Venue Restrictions – Some venues require bartenders with specific licenses.Alcohol Service Hours – Local laws may dictate last-call times.
- ID Verification – Professional bartenders ensure underage guests are not served.
Pro Tip: Always confirm that your chosen bartending services for events meet all state and venue regulations before booking.
How to Budget for Your Wedding Bar Service
The cost of bar services for wedding near me depends on several factors:
🔹 Guest Count – The more guests, the more drinks needed.
🔹 Drink Selection – Premium liquors and craft cocktails cost more.
🔹 Duration – Longer receptions require larger bar packages.
🔹 Bartender-to-Guest Ratio – Typically, one bartender per 50 guests.
Estimated Costs of a Wedding Bar Service:
- Open Bar: $15–$45 per guest
- Cash Bar: $0 upfront, guests pay individually
- Limited Bar: $10–$25 per guest
- Signature Cocktails: $8–$15 per drink
- BYOB + Bartending Service: $300–$600 per bartender + alcohol cost
Pro Tip: Ask your vendor about per-person pricing versus flat rates to compare costs effectively.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Wedding Bartender
Before booking a wedding bartending service, ask these essential questions:
- Are you fully licensed and insured for wedding events?
- What bar packages for weddings do you offer?
- Can you create custom cocktails based on our theme?
- Do you provide glassware, napkins, and garnishes?
- How many bartenders will be assigned to our event?
- What is your policy on cutting off intoxicated guests?
- Do you provide alcohol, or do we need to source it ourselves?
- Are setup and cleanup included in your pricing?
- What backup plans do you have for last-minute staffing issues?
- Can you accommodate non-alcoholic/mocktail options?
Pro Tip: Always get everything in writing to avoid surprises on your big day.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding is one of the most significant days of your life, and every detail matters—including the drinks. A professional wedding bar service ensures that your guests enjoy a seamless, high-quality experience while allowing you to relax and celebrate without stress. Whether you want a chic signature cocktail bar, a fully stocked open bar, or a simple but elegant beer-and-wine selection, the right bartending service can elevate your reception.
At Tipsy Times, we specialize in bartending services for events, ensuring top-tier drink service tailored to your unique wedding vision. With experienced bartenders, customizable drink menus, and full licensing and insurance, we take care of everything—so you don’t have to.
Ready to book your wedding bar service? Contact Tipsy Times today for personalized packages, expert mixologists, and a stress-free experience. Let’s make your big day unforgettable—one perfect pour at a time.
Call us now to reserve your date!
FAQ: Wedding Bar Service
1. How much does a wedding bar service typically cost?
The cost varies based on bar type, guest count, and duration, but most bar packages for weddings range from $10–$45 per guest.
2. Can I supply my own alcohol for my wedding?
Yes, if the venue allows it. A BYOB bar service with licensed bartenders can save money while ensuring responsible alcohol service.
3. What is the best bar option for a small wedding?
A signature cocktail bar or limited bar works well for intimate weddings, keeping costs down while maintaining a curated experience.
4. Do wedding bartenders provide glassware and mixers?
Many bartending services for events offer full setups, including glassware, ice, and garnishes. Always confirm with your vendor.
5. How many bartenders should I hire for my wedding?
A good rule of thumb is one bartender per 50 guests for smooth service.
6. What’s the difference between a cash bar and an open bar?
A cash bar requires guests to pay for their drinks, while an open bar is prepaid by the couple, offering unlimited drinks.
7. Do wedding bartenders handle ID checks?
Yes, professional wedding bartending services ensure compliance with age restrictions and local alcohol laws.
8. How can I save money on my wedding bar service?
Opt for a beer and wine-only package, limit liquor selection, or choose a BYOB setup with a hired bartender.
9. What happens if a guest gets too intoxicated?
Licensed bartending services for events are trained to handle overconsumption and can refuse service when necessary.
10. How far in advance should I book my wedding bar service?
Book at least 4-6 months in advance to secure your preferred alcohol vendor for events, especially during peak wedding season.