How to Hire a Wedding Bartender
If you've put thought into the cuisine you're serving at your wedding, you've probably also thought about the drinks that will be served alongside it. You might be imagining a fancy champagne station or a decadent coffee bar.
About 92% of couples serve alcohol at their wedding celebration. You can keep it simple with beer and wine, or go all out with a full bar and specialty drinks.
Instead of offering just regular and decaf coffee, some couples are also spoiling their guests with a full coffee bar. Think lattés and cappuccinos paired with your wedding cake and dessert bar.
When you start your search to hire a bartender in Austin, you'll find licensed professionals who will make sure your guests have a good time. Not to mention many of them have some of the most adorable mobile bar setups you've ever seen.
Are you looking to hire a wedding bartender in Austin, Texas? Then feel free to read this brief guide on how to find the best options.
Do Some Prep Work
Before you start looking for a wedding bartender in Austin, you'll need to nail down some basic wedding details. This includes knowing how many guests you're serving. While you won't know your exact guest count until six weeks or so before your wedding, having an approximate number is key.
You'll need about one bartender per 75 guests. This number depends on the type of service you're hiring, whether it is light bar service or a full bar with signature cocktails. Too few bartenders will have your guests waiting in long lines.
Have an idea of how many hours you'll need to hire a bartender. Your wedding planner should be able to help you figure out this number, or provide you with an itinerary to give you a rough idea. The number of hours needed will factor into your wedding budget as well.
Don't forget to talk with your venue about their policies and restrictions when it comes to alcohol. You'll want to know if you're able to bring in your own alcohol, or if it needs to be purchased through the venue (this is sometimes the case with wineries).
Make Sure They're Licensed
It is likely required by your venue that your bartender have a license and insurance that is up to date. Ask your planner or venue about the laws for serving alcohol in your state. While your old college roommate might pour a mean drink, it's unlikely with will be able to legally serve as a bartender at your wedding.
A licensed wedding bartender in Austin, TX will keep things running smoothly throughout the evening. They won't overpour and can tactfully decline drinks to anyone who's had a little too much.
Hire a Bartender with Unique Services
Alcohol options can go beyond beer, wine, and mixed drinks. Look for vendors with unique services that will get your guests talking. Along with offering signature cocktails special to you and your future spouse, look into other options outside of the box.
What about a frosé bar cart to help keep guests cool and refreshed during a summer wedding? Or serve up hot toddies and mulled wine during a fall or winter event.
Get Price Quotes
Bartending pricing can vary based on the package you choose and if the vendor is providing the alcohol. Remember that going for the lowest price isn't always the best. Find a vendor who will provide quality service and stay within your budget.
Also, be mindful of add-ons. You may fall in love with photos on a vendor's website of a decked-out mobile bar with lots of signage and various drink options. Some of those elements might cost extra. Ask about different packages and which services come with an additional fee.
When you're doing price comparisons, there are a few questions you need to ask:
Is alcohol included, or do you need to purchase your own
What is the hourly rate
What is the cost for beer and wine, mixed drinks, or a full bar
Do you need to provide ice
Is glassware provided
Don't Forget About Dedcor
Mobile bartenders will have different carts and setups. Along with choosing a bartender that fits within your budget and offers the services you're looking for pay attention to the type of setup they feature.
You might want an upscale bar with lots of florals that compliment your wedding colors. Or a three-wheeled vintage delivery truck might be more your style.
Mobile bars can come with various lighting options, drapery, or even a balloon arch. Ask your mobile bartender in Austin about their available décor options. It is likely an add-on, but worth it if it's in your budget.
It's Not Just Alcohol
When it comes to bartending services, it's not limited to alcohol. More and more couples are including elaborate coffee stations as part of their special day. This is more than just your average cup of Joe.
Coffee catering in Austin brings the craft coffee experience to you and your guests. It's a great option to serve during a brunch reception for an added touch of luxury. A coffee bar will also give guests a pick me up in the evening so they can continue to dance the night away.
Trained baristas provide an interactive pop-up espresso bar with favorites including cappuccinos, lattés, chai tea, and even hot chocolate. Include this service alongside your wedding bartender, or instead of alcohol.
Start Your Search for a Wedding Bartender
There are so many reasons to hire a bartender in Austin for your wedding. Whether you go for an open bar with fancy signature cocktails or a bold espresso station with rich flavors.
If you are looking to hire a bartender or any other wedding service in Austin, check out our amazing list of vendors to build your wedding dream team.