Finding a bar service in Denver starts with knowing where to look and what questions to ask. Skip the Google rabbit hole, here's exactly how to find and book quality alcohol catering for your event.

Phone Screening Questions

When you call potential bar services, ask these specific questions:

1. "What's included in your per-person pricing?" Some quotes include only alcohol. Others bundle ice, mixers, garnishes, and equipment. Party Liquor, for example, includes everything—tables, linens, glassware, unlimited ice, and all mixers—in their per-person packages.
2. "How many events have you done at [your venue]?" Experience at your specific venue means faster setup and fewer surprises. Mountain venues like The Lodge at Breckenridge require generators and special permits that experienced services already have sorted.
3. "What happens if you run out of something?" The answer reveals their planning approach. Professional services bring 10-15% overage. Some, like Party Liquor with their unlimited packages, guarantee they won't run out during your event.

Reading Between the Lines of Quotes

Bar service quotes hide costs in different places. 

Here's what to verify:

• Bartender fees: Some charge $25-35/hour per bartender separately. Others include labor in per-person pricing. For 100 guests, expect 2 bartenders minimum.
• Service charges: Many add 18-22% service charges that aren't gratuity. Ask if tips are additional.
• Delivery fees: Downtown Denver typically runs $50-150. Mountain venues can hit $500+ for transportation.
• Equipment rentals: Basic bars run $100-200. Upgraded LED bars or multiple stations add $300-500 each.
• Time restrictions: Most quotes cover 4-5 hours. Additional hours cost $100-300 per bartender.

Denver-Specific Considerations Most People Miss

Altitude adjustment: Guests feel alcohol effects 20-30% more at elevation. Experienced Denver bar services adjust pour sizes and pacing accordingly. They'll also stock more water and non-alcoholic options.

Craft beer expectations: Denver guests expect local options. Services should offer at least 2-3 Colorado beers. Great Divide, New Belgium, and Odell are crowd-pleasers that won't blow your budget.

Weather contingencies: June brings afternoon thunderstorms. October might mean snow. Professional services include tent weights, generator covers, and backup plans in their standard setup.

Permit requirements: Denver County requires event permits for 75+ guests. Some bar services handle this ($100-300). Others leave it to you. Jefferson County (Red Rocks area) has different rules entirely.

Site Visit

Before signing contracts, request a site visit. Professional services will:

• Measure actual bar placement options
• Identify power sources for refrigeration
• Check delivery access (crucial for Denver's older venues)
• Discuss backup plans for weather

Services that skip site visits often encounter day-of problems.

Contracts

Your contract must specify:

• Exact brands and quantities of alcohol
• Number of bartenders and their arrival/departure times
• Equipment list (specify "granite portable bar" not just "bar")
• Setup and breakdown timeframes
• Cancellation terms (COVID taught us this matters)
• Final headcount adjustment deadline

Missing any of these? Request an addendum before signing.

Timeline for Booking

12+ months out: Book for peak season (May-October) weddings or major corporate events

6-9 months out: Minimum for off-season events or smaller gatherings

3 months out: Last-minute territory—expect 20-30% higher prices and limited availability

Under 60 days: You'll need flexibility on dates or significant budget increase

Making the Final Call

The best Denver bar service combines proper licensing, venue experience, and transparent pricing. Whether you choose mobile specialists like Wandering Wagon Bars for their Instagram-worthy setups or established providers like Party Liquor for their 25+ years of reliability, verify everything in writing.

Book the service that answers your calls promptly, provides clear contracts, and has specific experience with your venue type.

Denver's event scene is too competitive for bar services that can't deliver on basics, the good ones prove themselves before you ever sign a contract.