Planning your dream wedding or special event involves coordinating countless details, and securing professional bar services is one decision you don't want to leave to the last minute. 

The right timing can mean the difference between getting your first-choice vendor and settling for what's available. 

Here's a comprehensive guide on when to book bar services to ensure your celebration flows perfectly from first toast to last call.

The Ideal Timeline: 12-18 Months in Advance

For weddings and significant celebrations, especially those scheduled during peak season (May through October in Colorado), the sweet spot for booking bar services is 12-18 months before your event date.

This timeline ensures:

• Maximum availability from your preferred vendors
• Better pricing options before seasonal increases
• Ample time to customize your bar package
• Coordination with other major vendors like your venue and caterer

When you secure your bar services early, you gain peace of mind and more flexibility to focus on other planning details as your big day approaches.

Venue Considerations: In-House vs. External Services

Your venue selection plays a crucial role in determining your bar service booking timeline:

In-House Bar Services

If your venue offers in-house bar services, align your booking with their timeline, typically around 10 months before the event. Many venues with exclusive in-house catering will include bar services in your initial contract, but specifics about packages, selections, and service details are often finalized later.

External Bar Services

When hiring an external bar service like Party Liquor, the 12-18 month recommendation becomes even more important. Independent bar services that bring expertise and full setups to your venue book up quickly, especially for popular dates.

Seasonal Factors: Why Timing Matters Even More

In Colorado, certain seasons demand even earlier booking:

• Summer Mountain Weddings: The June-September window in mountain venues is extremely competitive, with many couples booking bar services up to 18 months ahead.
• Holiday Season Events: November and December celebrations should secure bar services at least 12 months in advance.
• Spring Celebrations: March-May events benefit from booking 12 months out as this season becomes increasingly popular.

For off-peak seasons (January-February), you may have flexibility to book 8-10 months ahead, but earlier is always safer to secure your preferred vendor.

What Happens if You Wait Too Long?

Delaying your bar service booking can lead to:

• Limited vendor availability
• Fewer package options
• Potential premium pricing for last-minute bookings
• Stress and compromise during what should be an enjoyable planning process

Many couples or event planners who wait until 6 months or less before their event date find their first-choice vendors already booked solid, especially during wedding season.

Beyond Booking: Your Bar Service Timeline

Once you've secured your bar service provider, here's a timeline to follow:

6-8 Months Before:

• Begin discussing specific package details
• Consider initial beverage selections

3-4 Months Before:

• Finalize your bar package
• Select specific beer, wine, and spirits
• Discuss signature cocktail options

1-2 Months Before:

• Confirm final guest count
• Finalize quantities
• Arrange delivery and setup logistics

2 Weeks Before:

• Conduct final walkthrough with your bar service at the venue
• Confirm timeline and service details

Why Party Liquor Recommends Early Booking

With over 25 years of experience serving Colorado weddings and special events, we've seen firsthand how early planning leads to smoother, more personalized celebrations. Our TIPS-certified bartenders and comprehensive packages get booked quickly, especially for peak dates.

When you book early with Party Liquor, you benefit from:

• Securing your preferred event date
• Access to our full range of package options
• Time to customize selections to your taste and budget
• Comprehensive planning support throughout the process
• Peace of mind knowing your bar service is in expert hands

Ready to Secure Your Date?

Don't leave your bar service to chance. 

Contact Party Liquor today to discuss your upcoming wedding or special event and secure your date on our calendar. Our team is ready to help create a memorable bar experience that perfectly complements your celebration.

Remember, when it comes to booking bar services, earlier is always better than later. Your future self will thank you for the foresight and planning that leads to a perfectly executed event where you can focus on celebrating rather than worrying about details.