How to make the Open Bar at your Wedding Affordable

An open bar is a great way to help your wedding reception feel more festive. People will feel welcome and happy. They will be grateful to you for your generosity, and they will want to celebrate your nuptials freely. The problem is, an open bar can be very expensive. So how do you keep it affordable? Here are a few thoughts.

A Dry Wedding

Woah—hold on there! Did you say “dry” as in no alcohol? Yep. It’s definitely unusual, but if your budget is very tight, it’s an option to consider. If you have some people who are strongly against drinking, especially if they’re the heads of the families (such as your grandparents), it’s not only the cheaper option, it’s the respectful one. If you want, you can even host a smaller gathering the day before or after the reception where drinks are provided for the wedding party and maybe immediate family.

Beer and Wine Only

Selection leads to cost. Limiting selection can limit costs, and separating beer and wine from cocktails is a natural way to limit selection. You can control the costs by selecting the beers and wines—buying a keg or two and a few cases of wine is relatively inexpensive and will satisfy most of your guests. For better selection, you can buy a variety of beers and wines.

Limited Time and Supply

Another way to control costs is to limit how long you have the bar open. One way to do this is to just buy a certain supply of liquor—whatever your budget can accommodate—and have the bar open until it runs out. This is easy on your budget, but can be hard on guests. People will rush to the bar if they know supply is limited, and if they don’t some people—especially those busy helping make your day special--may not get a drink.

You can also limit the time the bar is open. If you’re going to do this, don’t just have it open at the beginning. Instead, have it open during dinner, then close it down when you’re doing some of the special events such as cake cutting, first dance, etc. Then open it again for a little while later so it feels less restrictive.

Signature Cocktails

Having a signature cocktail can limit selection and control costs while actually making your wedding feel special. If you and your beloved share a favorite drink or one that is special to your personal history, you can serve this as the only type of liquor at the bar. If you share the story, it will make it feel extra romantic and special. A signature cocktail can be used either as the only alcohol or it can be combined with beer and wine.

At Stonebrook Manor, we have helped many Denver area couples celebrate fabulous weddings. We have a lot of accumulated wisdom to share and we can help make yours special, too. To talk to us about your wedding and tour our facility, please call 303-255-0063 or email Stonebrook Manor in Thornton today.