Bar Policies

• Do they have multiple bartenders available in case of emergency?
• Do they have methods and policies in place to prevent overconsumption?
• Is gratuity included or will they have a tip jar out at your event?
• Is the final cost based on consumption?
• When and how are payments made?

Bar Liability

Find bartender(s) that are:

• STAR certified(Server Training in Alcohol Regulations)
• Insured with both liquor & general liability coverage
• Positively reviewed by clients & vendors
• Willing & able to responsibly serve & handle alcohol-related issues (This means it is rarely a good idea to hire a friend as your bartender.)

*NOTE* Different venues may have different policies about what, when, how, and who can serve alcohol, but all events must adhere to local & state regulations.

Bar Services

• How many hours of bar service do they provide?
• How much time do they allot for setup and cleanup?
• Are you having an Open Bar (guests don’t pay) or Cash Bar (Guests Pay)?
• How many bars & bartenders are needed?
• Do you want any table service?
• Will there be a Champagne toast or tower?

Do you want a tasting station of any specialty alcohol?

Bar Supplies

What of the following do they include?

• Beer, wine and/or Spirits
• Ice, mixers & garnishes
• Cups, napkins, stir sticks & straws
• Water and/or other on-alcoholic drinks

If these items are not included, do they give recommendations on what to buy, where to buy & how much to buy?

Bar Equipment

What of the following do they provide?

• Coolers
• Tables
• Trashcans/trash bags
• Bartending tools such as bottle openers, corkscrews, etc.

Bar Presentation

Do they OFFER any of the following:

• Multiple bar locations/setups
• A unique setup or decor
• Signage (ex. bar menu)
• Table linens

Bar Logistics

Which of the following tasks does the bartender handle…

Before the event?

• Purchase supplies
• PickUp/Deliver supplies
• Set up (sorting, icing, chopping, mixing, staging, etc.) of bar items

After the Event?

• Clean up (Draining, washing containers, packaging leftovers, etc.) of bar items
• Remove trash
• Pack leftovers

Still on the fence about whether to have a bar at your wedding? Jump over to this post to help you decide>> Should I serve alcohol at my wedding? 

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Feature image by Christina Stallard Photography.