When one commits to planning an event or party, one must decide whether or not to serve alcohol to the guests. There are a few considerations to keep in mind and discuss with your caterer.
Is Alcohol Allowed on the Premises?
Where will your event or party be taking place? It is important to confirm that your event or party site will allow alcohol on its premises. Once you have made certain that you can serve alcohol at your chosen site, ask your caterer if he or she holds a liquor license. He or she must have a valid liquor license. If he or she does not hold a liquor license, then you must contact a liquor-licensed dealer.
Bartenders
Prepare to provide a guest estimate for your caterer to work with. The caterer in turn will supply you with a quote for the number of bartenders that must attend bar and the quantity of ice, glasses, and mixers necessary. The amount of bartenders depends on the number of guests. Figure on one bartender for every 50 people served. Your caterer or licensed liquor dealer will be responsible for setting up the bar.
You must now determine what you wish to be served from the bar as well as if you require your guests to pay for alcohol themselves.
Cash Bar
A cash bar requires the guest to pay for their drinks. Guests tend to consume less alcohol when it isn't free.
Open Bar
This is a basic bar with all the works and at no charge to the guests. The open bar includes hard liquor for mixing drinks, wine, beer, and soft drinks.
Limited Bar
A limited bar will set boundaries on what will be served and in what moderation. An example of a limited bar is an event in which beer and wine is offered to the guests at no charge and hard liquor is offered at a pre-determined price.
Whatever you decide in regards to serving alcohol at your event or party is up to you. Be certain to discuss all the beverage details with your caterer beforehand. Cheers.