Planning your wedding bar can feel overwhelming.

Should you offer just beer and wine? Go all out with a full bar? What about those guests who don't drink? 

Let's break down exactly what each bar package includes, what it costs, and how to choose the right option for your celebration.

Understanding Your Bar Package Options

Beer-Only Bars: Simple & Budget-Friendly

A beer-only bar typically includes four to six selections: domestic favorites like Budweiser or Coors Light, imports such as Corona or Heineken, plus a couple of craft options. Many couples now add hard seltzers to the mix for guests who prefer something lighter.

For a 150-guest wedding lasting six hours, you'll need approximately eight cases (24 cans or bottles per case). This assumes about two drinks per guest throughout the event. The beauty of a beer bar lies in its simplicity. Your bartenders can serve quickly, lines stay short, and costs remain predictable at around $20-25 per person.

This option works particularly well for afternoon receptions, casual outdoor weddings, or when you know your crowd consists mainly of beer enthusiasts. At Party Liquor, we've found that adding a selection of Colorado craft beers like Fat Tire or Dale's Pale Ale gives even a simple beer bar some local personality.

Wine-Only Bars: Classic Elegance

Wine bars have become increasingly popular, especially for daytime or garden weddings. The standard setup includes one white (typically Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc), one red (Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir), and one sparkling option like Prosecco.

Here's the math: each bottle pours about five glasses. For 150 guests over six hours, plan on 90 bottles total. This breaks down to roughly 45 bottles of red, 35 of white, and 10 sparkling, though you can adjust based on your crowd's preferences. Expect to spend $20-35 per person for a wine-only bar.

Wine bars offer more sophistication than beer-only options while keeping things manageable. They pair beautifully with dinner service and appeal to a wide range of tastes without the complexity of a full bar setup.

Full Bar: Maximum Variety

A full bar combines beer, wine, and spirits, typically following a 50/30/20 ratio (wine/beer/spirits). Standard spirits include vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey, and gin, along with all necessary mixers like tonic water, sodas, and juices. Don't forget the garnishes: lime wedges, lemon slices, olives, and cherries.

For that same 150-person, six-hour wedding, you'd need approximately:

• 90 bottles of wine
• 8 cases of beer
• 6 liters of spirits (about 2 bottles each of vodka, rum, and whiskey)

Full bars run $45-90 per person, depending on whether you choose standard brands (Smirnoff, Captain Morgan) or premium options (Grey Goose, Patron). The higher cost reflects not just the alcohol variety but also the additional setup, more complex inventory, and skilled bartending required for cocktail mixing.

Current Trends Shaping Wedding Bars in 2025

The Mocktail Movement

Perhaps the biggest shift we're seeing is the rise of dedicated mocktail bars. These aren't just sodas with a cherry on top. Think citrusy spritzers with fresh herbs for summer weddings or spiced apple drinks with cinnamon sticks for fall celebrations. Professional bartenders are treating these alcohol-free options with the same creativity as traditional cocktails, using artisanal mixers and fresh ingredients.

Mobile and Satellite Bars

Flexibility has become key. Mobile bar setups allow couples to move drink service between ceremony and reception spaces or create multiple serving points to eliminate long lines. These aren't your grandfather's folding tables either. Modern mobile bars match the quality and appearance of traditional setups while offering logistical advantages.

Making Your Choice

Consider these factors when selecting your bar package:

• Guest Demographics: A younger crowd might appreciate craft beers and creative cocktails, while older guests often prefer wine and classic mixed drinks.
• Event Timing: Morning and afternoon weddings typically see lighter drinking, making beer and wine sufficient. Evening receptions usually warrant full bar service.
• Venue Restrictions: Mountain venues might have limited delivery access. Historic properties sometimes restrict red wine to prevent staining. Work with your bar service to navigate these challenges.
• Budget Reality: Remember that bar costs include more than just alcohol. Factor in bartender fees, equipment rental, delivery, setup, and gratuity when comparing options.

Customization Options Worth Considering

Signature cocktails add personality without breaking the bank. Choose two drinks that reflect your style or story, like a bourbon cocktail for him and a gin fizz for her. These can be pre-batched for faster service while giving guests something special.

Consider seasonal touches. Summer weddings might feature a sangria station or frozen margaritas. Winter celebrations could offer hot toddies or spiked cider during cocktail hour. These additions typically cost $200-500 extra but create memorable moments.

Multiple bar setups prevent congestion. For weddings over 100 guests, consider a main bar plus a beer and wine satellite station. This keeps lines moving and ensures nobody misses important moments waiting for a drink.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Bar Service

Your wedding bar sets the tone for your celebration. Whether you choose a simple beer selection or a full premium bar, the key is working with experienced professionals who understand both service and logistics. Companies with decades of experience, proper insurance, and certified staff take the stress out of this important decision.

Remember, unlimited packages ensure you'll never run out mid-celebration, while professional bartenders keep service smooth and guests safe. The right bar service adapts to your vision while handling all the behind-the-scenes details that make great parties flow.

Focus on choosing the package that fits your guests, venue, and style. Let the professionals handle the rest, from calculating quantities to managing service flow. After all, you should be enjoying your celebration, not worrying about whether the bar is running smoothly.

FAQs on Wedding Bar Packages

How much alcohol do I need for 100 wedding guests?

For a 5-hour reception with 100 guests, plan on approximately 60 bottles of wine (30 red, 25 white, 5 sparkling), 5-6 cases of beer, and 4 liters of spirits if offering a full bar. This assumes 2 drinks per person in the first hour and 1 per hour after that.

Can we bring our own alcohol instead of using a bar service?

It depends on your venue's policies and state laws. Some venues prohibit outside alcohol, while others allow it with proper permits. You'll still need licensed bartenders and liability insurance. Factor in the time and effort of shopping, transporting, and returning unopened bottles when comparing costs.

Should we offer a signature cocktail at our wedding?

Signature cocktails add personality without significantly increasing costs, typically $200-500 extra. Choose 1-2 drinks that can be pre-batched for faster service. They work especially well during cocktail hour and give guests something unique to remember.

What's the difference between standard and premium bar packages?

Standard packages include recognizable brands like Smirnoff vodka and Jim Beam whiskey, while premium packages feature higher-end options like Grey Goose and Maker's Mark. The price difference is usually $4-10 more per person, and most guests are perfectly happy with standard selections.

Do we need a full bar for a daytime wedding?

Not necessarily. Daytime weddings typically see lighter drinking, making beer and wine sufficient for most crowds. This can save $20-50 per person compared to a full bar. Consider adding a mimosa or bloody mary bar for brunch receptions to keep things festive.