Should You Hire a Professional Bartender for Your Wedding?

The answer to this question is not a straightforward one.  It really depends on many factors, so rather than answering yes or no, let us consider those variables so you can make the best decision for you and your future spouse.

Cost The first thing to consider is how much you can afford. If your budget is minimal, you may not want to have a bartender at the wedding.  Not only will you have to pay that individual for his or her services, you are also going to have to afford the alcohol consumed.  There may be other, more cost effective ways, to offer alcoholic beverages to your guests, such as spiked punch bowls, or self-serve beer taps.

Alcohol to Be Served How much booze will you have on hand? If you were intending to have a beer-and-wine-only party, then it probably isn’t necessary to have a professional bartender on hand.  The venue or the caterer may be willing to supply a worker for managing the pouring of these beverages. If you are planning on having a full bar at the party, then a bartender is likely a good idea, and you may be able to find someone willing to work on very little upfront, because guests are likely to leave tips throughout the evening.

Rules of the Venue Some of the places that host weddings have very specific rules regarding alcohol, because of state licensing obligations and for other reasons.  Be sure that you inquire with the venue about what you will be allowed to serve and how.  You may be limited to only certain types of alcohol, or they may require you to use their bar staff rather than hiring your own.

Otherwise Provided? As mentioned above, some party venues supply their own bar staff, either included in the price or for an additional fee.  Caterers will also, generally, have a bartender who can work the event, and this can be added into the catering expense, so you don’t have to worry about finding a bartender on your own.