We get lots of questions from clients about how to stock a bar for a wedding. No one wants to run out of drinks on wedding day! There are many formulas out there that help you calculate the right amount of drinks to purchase, but since every client is different, we encourage you to ask yourselves these 3 questions first.
What will your guests drink the most of?
The drinks you purchase should be based on your wedding guests. If no one you know likes champagne, skip the champagne toast! If local beers are popular amongst your friends and family, splurge on that. There is no wrong way to stock your bar if you’re purchasing what you and your guests love!
What’s your bar budget?
You can have a fun bar with any budget. Whether you keep it simple with 2 signature cocktails, 2 wines, and 2 beer options, splurge on a full bar, or make it unique with a self-serve sangria station, set your budget and stick to it!
How long will cocktail hour be?
Typically cocktail hour is just that, an hour, but if you’re planning an extended cocktail hour, or maybe even pre-ceremony welcome drinks, consider holding off on liquor until dinner time. Wedding days are long, you don’t want your guests downing too much alcohol before they sit down for dinner.
Helpful Resources to Help You Stock Your Wedding Bar
Ice calculator
Drinks calculator
Two Chicks and a Pot – Signature Cocktail List
Looking for some signature cocktails that you can make at home? Check out some of our favorite signature cocktails.
Interested to learn more about how we can help with your wedding or event bar services? Visit our bartending services page