Open Bar at Weddings: Everything You Need to Know

Wedding expenses tend to escalate quickly—and alcohol is often one of the biggest contributors. If you're wondering whether to include an open bar on your big day, this guide from DWP is here to help you make an informed decision. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons, what to expect from an open bar, key questions to ask at your venue, cost-saving tips, and more.

Should You Have an Open Bar at Your Wedding?

We’re not here to tell you how much you should or shouldn’t spend on your dream wedding. What we are here for is to help you plan the celebration you’ve always envisioned.

First things first—how much alcohol will you actually need? Consider the following questions to get a better idea:

✅ When will drinks be served?

Are you planning a cocktail hour after the ceremony?

Will drinks be served throughout dinner or just during the reception?

Will there be any parts of the event that are alcohol-free?

✅ Describe your ideal vibe:

Do you picture your reception as a lively, high-energy party or a classy, elegant soirée—or both?

Are you working with a specific theme? For example, if you’re planning a Great Gatsby-themed wedding, your guests will likely expect drinks flowing all night long.

✅ Know your guest list:

How many guests will you have?

Will there be lots of young, energetic attendees?

Will there be older guests who prefer a quieter atmosphere?

Do you think your guests will need a little “liquid courage” to loosen up?

What's the Difference Between an Open Bar and a Cash Bar?

Once you've identified your beverage needs, it's time to explore your bar options:

Open Bar: Guests can enjoy drinks freely throughout the event. The host covers all costs, including the alcohol, bartending service, and tips.

Cash Bar: Similar to a public bar—guests order and pay for their own drinks and tips.

Is a Cash Bar at a Wedding Considered Tacky?

Honestly? It kind of is. Asking guests to pay for their drinks at a wedding can come across as impolite—especially when they’ve taken the time and effort to attend your big day.

Think of it this way: inviting friends over for a fancy dinner, then asking them to pay for each glass of wine. It sends the wrong message.

• If your budget is tight, it’s better to:
• Limit drink service to a certain time,
• Choose budget-friendly options, or
• Skip alcohol altogether—rather than making your guests pay at a celebration you’re hosting.

Can You Do a Partial Open Bar?

Absolutely. There are flexible alternatives like:

• Time-limited open bar (e.g., during cocktail hour only),
• Limited drink menu (e.g., beer, wine, and a signature cocktail),
• Drink tickets: Provide each guest with a set number of drink vouchers—they can buy more if they wish.

Whatever you choose, make sure your budget boundaries are clear from the start. It will help you stay on track and keep guests comfortable.

What Are the Downsides of an Open Bar?

It can blow your budget

Open bars can get expensive fast. Set a realistic limit and stick to it. If a full-service open bar is out of reach, opt for a more controlled version that suits your finances.

Guests may overindulge

An unlimited supply of alcohol can sometimes lead to excessive drinking. Professional bartenders can help monitor this, but they can’t watch every single guest closely.

Unlimited drinks = unpredictable situations

Not every couple wants a wild, party atmosphere. It’s wise to anticipate potential issues and set boundaries that align with your ideal wedding vibe.

How to Save on Your Open Bar?

💡 Bring your own alcohol (if the venue allows it)

💡 Opt for a fixed beverage package instead of pay-per-drink

💡 Use drink tickets to manage consumption

💡 Limit the hours for drink service

We hope this guide gives you more clarity as you decide whether an open bar is right for your wedding. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—every celebration is unique. The key is to weigh the pros and cons and choose what feels most authentic and practical for you.

If you need support or expert advice while planning your big day, December Wedding Planner is here for you. With years of experience and deep industry know-how, we’re dedicated to helping you create a wedding that is personal, polished, and unforgettable.

Don’t hesitate to contact us:

(+84) 936 436 602 - Ms. Tiên

(+84) 983 03 61 03 - Ms. Hạnh 

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