One of the single most expensive things to provide at your wedding reception is drinks. Alcohol is pricey, plain and simple. There is no way getting around that, and open bar is just not an option for some. And these days, with so many couples on a budget, you need to come up with ways to tighten the purse strings and save your bucks.
Your guests will understand that you needed to make cuts in your budget, but you can do that without sacrificing a fantastic and fun wedding reception. Below are some options for your to consider to save lots of money on that bar tab!
Opt for Only Wine and Beer: Is there really a need for mixed drinks? Liquor is where the big money is spent, especially if your venue is providing the drinks. Most people either like beer or wine, or with it being much cheaper, why not just give those two options? You can choose one beer and two wines—red and white. Or, you can just go with one type of wine. Generally, more people prefer white over red, but also consider your menu and try and pair what goes best with the food.
Serve a Signature Drink: If you are determined to serve liquor at your wedding, consider a signature drink. They are really trendy nowadays, and you can choose this option without your guests being the wiser that you are trying to save money. Choose something that suits you as a couple. For example, perhaps you met on the beach? How about a drink named after that beach? It is fun to get creative, and It would be fun for the guests to try it out.
B.Y.O.B.: Some etiquette books would shun at this thought, but it is a great idea to offer a BYOB option rather than having a high priced cash bar. Your guests will actually appreciate it. And, if it is a casual wedding, it will fit the bill perfectly. So, why not?
Limited Open Bar: Who says you have to have an open bar the entire night? There is no rule for that. For example, if your reception is for four hours, consider only having open bar for the first hour or two. Another option is to close the bar during the dinner hour. If you think about it, guests will be busy eating and talking and won’t need a drink during that time.
If planning a destination wedding, you may be able to book a venue that offers free drinks. If you’re planning on having a younger group of people attending your wedding, ones who you know will be out drinking at every good chance that they have, an all-inclusive destination wedding may be for you. Naturally, a wedding of this type costs both the bride and groom and the guests a significantly large amount to attend your wedding, but as far as I’m concerned, those who are willing to pay a bit more to see a wedding are the guests you want to show up anyways!
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I’m Tara and I enjoy writing about wedding planning, including where to shop for plus-size wedding gowns, how to accessorize your bridal ensemble, and how to properly alter your wedding dress.
