Bar and expenses: open, partially open or paid bar?

Which one should you choose?

If planning a festival or rustic-styled wedding in 2024, finding the perfect bar option will be high on your list of todos. There are four main options: open bar, partially open bar, paid bar, or dry bar.

Each one has its own pros and cons. You need to consider your budget, your preferences, and the atmosphere you want to create. Here's a quick guide to help you choose which bar option is right for your wedding.

Open/free bar

An open bar means all drinks are free for your guests to enjoy. You pay an upfront fee, usually based on the number of guests, drink preferences, length of wedding, and the amount you believe your guests are likely to consume!

This is the most generous option; it allows guests to enjoy themselves without worrying about the cost. It simplifies payment options. Guests won’t need to find tickets, cash, or cards. Most bars now prefer contactless payments. Keep in mind your chosen venue’s internet service, or lack of it! If it’s poor, then card machines may not work. If this is the case and cost is not something you need to worry about, it may make sense to go with this option.

However, an open bar can also be the most expensive option, especially if you have many guests or if they drink a lot.

 Partially open bar

A partially open bar simply means that some drinks are free for your guests, and others are not. As an example, you could offer beer and wine free, but you may decide to charge for cocktails and spirits. Another option is to offer drinks for a limited time only. Maybe from the start of the reception until the toasts have finished and the night guests start to arrive.  You then switch to a paid bar.

This is a popular option, as it allows you to save some money while still being hospitable. As its usually family and closest friends at the start of your wedding it’s a great choice if you can afford it.

It gives your guests choice and flexibility, as they can decide whether to stick to free drinks or splurge on something more. However, a partially open bar can cause some confusion amongst guests. Clarity is key. Good signage should help keep guests in the know. Display it on the bar, in clear view. It’s always a good idea to include your bar payment options in your wedding invites. That way guests know if they need to bring cash, cards, or nothing at all.

Make sure your wedding coordinator or a trusted family member or friend has a quick word with the bar owner or wedding venue making sure they know which option you are going for.

Paid bar

A paid bar means all drinks are paid for by your guests. You won’t need to pay any upfront costs to your bar or venue other than the drinks consumed with the wedding breakfast and toast.

If the budget is tight this is the best option for you. It eliminates the cost of any more than necessary alcohol from your budget. It helps reduce the risk of over-serving and intoxication, as your guests will be more mindful of what they drink. You'll also need to make sure that the bar or venue accepts various payment methods, has a good internet connection, and provides adequate staff and equipment.

 The dry bar

 If you want a bar that is unique to you as a couple dry hire could be a great option. It does, however, involve a lot more work on your part. Dry hire means you simply the bar, a mobile bar or at the venue itself. Both of these will usually include the glass and staff hire but again some just hand over an empty bar and you source everything from alcohol, glasses and staff. This way, you can save money on alcohol, buy in bulk, and choose your own drinks menu. You have more control over the look and service.

If you have a wedding theme dry hire is ideal. You can make it fit your budget and style. Decorate the bar to match your wedding colours, choose drinks that suit your taste and personality, and hire staff that you trust and know. You can also avoid paying corkage fees or minimum spend requirements that some venues or bars may charge.

If you go down the dry hire route don’t forget that you will be responsible for obtaining a temporary events notice also called a TEN from your local council. A TEN is a licence that allows you to sell or supply alcohol at an unlicensed venue for up to 168 hours. You will need to apply for a TEN at least 10 working days before your wedding date.

Dry hire is a great option for couples who want bespoke and memorable drinks at a cost that they can afford. You can totally customise your drinks menu whilst creating a stunning bar area for your wedding guests to enjoy.

 Vintage tea or coffee bar

Don’t forget that not everyone wants to or can drink alcohol, and there is only so much water or soft drinks you can tolerate! We personally had 7 pregnant women at our wedding, so I speak from experience! Having a beautiful vintage tea or coffee bar for the afternoon until early evening is a welcome sight for many wedding guests. There are some beautiful ones available to hire and are worth checking out!

Check out vendors near you on Hitched, UK Brides and Bridebook. Local Facebook business pages are also a great place to start.

To help calculate the cost of drink at your wedding check out this handy wedding drinks calculator.