The bar is an essential part of any wedding. Hiring a wedding bartender can be daunting, but we’re here to help! The bartenders are the primary “client-facing” vendor at any wedding, so hiring professional and reliable staff makes for a positive experience for all guests. When searching for the right one, there are numerous details to consider: type of alcohol, champagne for toasting, dinner wine… and many more. Before delving into specifics, let’s review the basics.
Laying the Groundwork
When hiring bar staff, consider the logistics of the wedding (e.g. if the venue requires you to use their staff, if there is a preferred vendor list to hire from). Additionally, anticipate a guest count; though the exact figure may not be known until down the road, a rough estimate is essential! There should be roughly one bartender per 50 guests to ensure a smooth service flow. The last detail to consider is the hours you need staff. Most bar services are based on an hourly rate. An accurate number of hours required will give you the most accurate proposal!
Consider Different Bar Packages
When choosing a bar package, think about how much service you need. There are many options available. The most simple level of bar service begins hiring bartenders and DIYing the rest. Next up is a “BYOB” package which includes everything but the alcohol. This differs for each vendor, but Peak’s version includes mixers and equipment. Lastly, the package we recommend is an “All-Inclusive” package which includes everything your bar would need, plus a designated bar manager overseeing the bar and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
At Peak Beverage, we’ve streamlined the bar service with our all-inclusive packages to make the event bar process affordable, seamless, and enjoyable. You pay one price per guest for an unlimited bar — a fixed price per hour at the beginning that won’t change based on consumption levels. This service includes all products, TABC/TIPS-trained bartenders, glassware, garnishes, mixers, setup and breakdown, and a guarantee that we will never run out of product during an event. While we think this is the best option, Peak Beverage can also do consumption-based and cash bar models, along with a hybrid of the two. With Peak, the bar options are endless!
Plan the Details
Once the logistics are sorted, you can plan the exciting touches! There are many ways you can incorporate unique add-ons to make the bar something special. Many couples like to add specialty cocktails to their bar to give a personalized touch. Another fun addition is a “tasting bar,” which can be done with various spirits such as tequila or whiskey. Custom bar signage can make the bar’s aesthetic more personable and exciting! Check out our Pinterest board for inspiration for your wedding bar.
Get a Price Quote
Using all the information gathered in the planning process, it’s time to shop for your perfect bartending service. Not only is Peak known for our exceptional bar service and tasty drinks, but we also have a fantastic customer service record and helpful sales representatives! After submitting a proposal request, you can expect a custom proposal in 1-2 business days. A knowledgeable team member will be assigned to help you work through your event’s details. Once the proposal is signed, your bar is locked in and can be viewed through our customer portal anytime.
Your wedding bar deserves to have as much thought and attention to detail as the rest of the planning process. Hiring bar staff may seem a bit confusing initially, but working with the right bar service is key to seamless planning and a successful event! At Peak, we have thousands of events under our belt and the process down to a science. Less planning hassle for you means more time to enjoy the fun! Click the link below to get a proposal, and follow us on our social media for more inspiration, tips, tricks, and fun.