Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Wedding Bartender
When it comes to creating an unforgettable wedding guest experience, a well-run bar can make all the difference! Whether you’re planning a full open bar, signature cocktails, or a simple beer and wine setup, hiring the right bartender is key to ensuring your guests are taken care of safely and efficiently.
Before you sign a contract, make sure to ask the right questions, not just about what’s included, but also about logistics. For example, it is important to know whether your bartenders and caterers are from the same company or two separate vendors. Knowing this helps clarify who’s responsible for items like glassware, ice, and cleanup, ensuring a smooth and coordinated service throughout your reception.
1. Are you a licensed and insured bartender?
Always confirm that your bartender holds the proper licenses and liability insurance for the county you are getting married in. This not only protects you and your venue in case of any alcohol-related incidents but also ensures your bartender meets venue requirements. Some venues require proof of insurance before allowing alcohol service, so it’s important to verify this detail early in the planning process!
2. How many bartenders do you provide for my guest count?
A good rule of thumb is one bartender for every 50 guests. Asking this question helps ensure your guests won’t spend the evening waiting in long lines for drinks and keeps your celebration flowing smoothly.
Photographer: Dani Keane
3. How long can the bar remain open for?
Some bartenders have time restrictions or may charge additional fees for extended service. Clarifying this upfront ensures your timeline runs smoothly. Consider your full schedule, will you offer pre-ceremony drinks, and what time does your reception end? Knowing the bar’s hours in advance helps you plan accordingly and avoid any surprises.
4. Do you provide mixers and garnishes?
Ask whether items like soda, tonic water, juice, and cocktail garnishes (lemons, limes, etc.) are included in the bartender’s service or if you’ll need to provide them separately. If you’re planning signature cocktails, check whether any specialty garnishes are included or considered an add-on. Clarifying this ahead of time ensures your drinks look and taste exactly as you envision.
5. Do you provide ice?
Ice is often overlooked but absolutely essential for keeping drinks cold and your bar running smoothly. Confirm who is responsible for providing and replenishing it throughout the evening. Check if your venue has a large ice machine on-site. If not, ask whether the bartenders can bring ice with them or if you, as the couple, will need to supply it. Clarifying this in advance prevents last-minute hiccups during the celebration.
Photographer: Dani Keane
6. Who is providing cups?
Disposable cups, glassware, or specialty drinkware can vary depending on your event style. Confirm whether the bartender supplies them or if you need to rent or purchase them.
7. Who is providing beverage napkins?
It’s a small detail, but an important one! If you’re planning to provide custom cocktail napkins, ask whether the bartender can keep extra on hand in case you run out. This ensures your bar stays both functional and stylish throughout the evening.
8. Can your bartenders pass drinks during cocktail hour to help limit long bar lines?
A great way to keep bar lines short, especially at the start of cocktail hour, is to have bartenders pass drinks to guests. They can offer your signature cocktails or a selection of beer and wine, ensuring drinks are flowing smoothly and guests can mingle right away instead of waiting in line at the bar.
Photographer: Dani Keane
9. Can you advise us on how much alcohol we should purchase or do you recommend someone who could help us with this?
Estimating how much alcohol to provide for your wedding day can be tricky. An experienced bartender can offer helpful insight and create a recommended list based on your guest count, drink selections, and service style. They may also be able to refer you to someone who specializes in calculating quantities to ensure you have the proper amount for your celebration.
Asking these questions in advance ensures you understand exactly what’s included in your bar service, helps you budget accurately, and prevents last-minute surprises on your wedding day. A professional, well-prepared bartender not only keeps the drinks flowing but also helps maintain a smooth timeline and positive guest experience from start to finish.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the logistics of bar service, or any part of your wedding planning, our team is here to help. At Before the Vows, we handle every detail, from coordinating your bartenders to finalizing your timeline, so you can relax and enjoy a perfectly seamless celebration. Reach out to us today to start planning your dream day!
