| Many reception venues provide full bar facilities for you to choose from. However, if you are hiring a caterer you may need to organise the bar yourself. In this situation, a good local hotel will be able to help. You’ll also need to discuss bar requirements with your caterer so you can organise bar staff and drinks in a mutually acceptable way. How much you spend will depend on how thirsty your guests are, and how thirsty you can afford them to be! Few people are prepared to go to the expense of providing spirits at large receptions. Instead, beer, wine and soft drinks and perhaps some non-alcoholic wines are served. Champagne is always served for the toasts.
Bridal parties can arrive at the reception up to two and a half hours after the ceremony. Your guests can be asked to arrive at the same time as this not only saves you money on drinks, it also breaks up the day, giving your guests time to freshen up and have some free time. Consider your options! When buying beer, people have different tastes regarding brands and you might find life easier with kegs, cans or bottles.
Remember to provide light and mid-strength beer for those who have to drive home afterwards. If you decide to hire kegs, be certain to order, in advance, all the equipment necessary to use them. Many reasonably priced red and white wines and champagnes are available. What you buy should depend on your budget, what you are eating and the time or temperature of the day. Your publican, caterer or banquet manager will be able to advise you about wines. Ask about buying by the carton and mixed cartons. Finally, make sure you have all the necessary glassware for the different drinks.
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