How Much Is an Open Bar at a Wedding?
You’re planning a wedding. Great! Now, you are probably facing one of the big decisions: Whether to have an open bar or not. No wonder why – who doesn’t love a good toast and a celebratory drink with friends and family? But before you get carried away with the bubbly and cocktails, you might be wondering: How much is an open bar at a wedding after all?
Read on as we will walk you through the costs, factors affecting pricing, and tips for making the most of your open bar without breaking the bank. Let’s see what you need to know about the price for an open bar at your wedding.
5 Things You Need to Know about the Cost of an Open Bar at a Wedding
An open bar is an awesome way to keep your guests having a blast at your event. The thing is that the price for it varies a lot, depending on a few factors. What are those? See the brief lowdown on what to expect:
#1: How Much Does an Open Bar Cost at a Wedding?
The cost of an open bar at a wedding fluctuates based on your location, the number of guests, and the type of beverages you choose. But to give you a general understanding of the costs:
- On average, you can expect to pay between $15 to $40 per person for an open bar. This range typically covers standard beer, wine, and a selection of mixed drinks.
- For a more fancy experience with premium liquor and specialty cocktails, the cost might rise to $50 to $70 per person – sometimes even more than that.
#2: How Much for an Open Bar at a Wedding: 3 Factors to Consider
As you can guess, several factors will influence how much you end up paying for your open bar:
Guest Count
It should be a no-brainer that the more guests you have, the higher the overall cost per the open bar. Venues and caterers usually price their open bar packages per head, so the total bill will increase with your guest list.
Type of Drinks You Want to be Served
Also, the selection of beverages impacts the cost. A basic bar with standard liquors will be less expensive than one featuring premium brands and craft cocktails.
Duration of Your Wedding
The length of time you want the open bar available will affect the price as well. Most bars charge by the hour, so a longer event will result in a higher bill, obviously.
While mentioning the issue of time…
#3: How Many Hours of Open Bar at a Wedding?
Determining how many hours to keep the bar open may not be that simple.
Typically, open bars are available for 4 to 6 hours. This timeframe usually covers the cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. However, if your reception goes longer or you have an extended event, be prepared for additional charges. Some venues offer tiered pricing for extra hours, so it may be easier for you to plan according to your schedule and budget.
#4: Price for Open Bar at Wedding: 3 Tips to Reduce the Overall Cost
If you are a bit worried about the cost of an open bar, we have good news for you. There are at least four ways to keep the tab in check while still giving your guests an epic experience. First one?
TIP #1: Go for a limited selection of beer, wine, and a few signature cocktails rather than a full premium bar. This can significantly reduce the cost.
TIP #2: Consider having a limited open bar where guests can enjoy select drinks for free, while other premium options are available for purchase.
TIP #3: Many venues and caterers offer packages that include different levels of open bar options. So, tell the providers what you expect and need. Don’t fret about negotiating because this sometimes leads to better rates, saving you a couple of bucks.
#5: How Much Is an Open Bar at a Wedding: Hidden Costs to Watch For
Yep, sometimes you may come across potential additional charges that might not be immediately obvious. What are those?
For example the bartender fees. Some venues charge extra for bartenders, which might be billed separately from the open bar cost.
Another one is connected with the service fees. Always check if there are any additional costs for the service or gratuities included in the price. These can add a percentage to your total bill.
Summary: How Much Is an Open Bar at a Wedding?
An open bar can really amp up the fun at your wedding, making it a celebration your guests will remember. But before you commit, it’s important to understand how much an open bar at a wedding costs in order to plan accordingly. By knowing the factors that influence the cost of an open bar at a wedding, you can make a choice that fits both your vision and your budget.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot between offering a great selection for your guests and managing your expenses wisely. Whether you are considering how many hours of open bar at your wedding or what kind of drinks to serve, a little planning and flexibility can help you enjoy a fantastic open bar without any last-minute surprises.
