How to Cut Costs on an Open Bar Wedding Reception

Member

By Limowreck
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating:

(7 Ratings)

Cut Costs on an Open Bar Wedding Reception

An Open Bar is a great addition to any wedding reception. However, they can be shocking when the bill comes. Save big money and have a great open bar wedding reception with these tips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

RUN YOUR OWN

This is the biggest money saver. Running your own open bar can be very easy. You just need volunteers to mix from a limited selection of drinks. All your materials can be purchased from warehouses for a fraction of the price of a bar service.
Step 2

Limit Selection ~ Whether you're hiring professionals or running your own open bar, you can limit costs by limiting selection. Decide on a few cost-friendly concoctions that appeal to a wide variety of people. Call them your "signature" drinks. It will ensure you don't end up buying the most expensive drinks for everyone at the reception.
Step 3

Bucket of Beer ~ Choose a nice, large container. Fill it with ice and beers you can afford. When the beers are gone, that's it. People will drink less when they know there is a limited quantity available. Also, you are likely to get beer donations from guests as the reception goes on. Decorate the container with your wedding colors or theme.
Step 4

TIP JAR

A tip jar can help reduce the cost of an open bar. Display an elegant container with a sign on it. The sign should indicate that tips will help pay for the drinks, not the bartender.
Step 5

SAFETY LIMITS

When people can't control themselves, it may be time to step in. Cutting excessive drinkers off is not just a matter of cutting costs, but a matter of public safety. Make sure the person you assign to bar duty has the ability to recognize when someone has had too much.
Step 6

NON ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Make sure there is a diverse collection of alcohol-free drinks for people to choose from. Many people enjoy mixed drinks because of the flavor variety