7 ALTERNATIVES TO AN OPEN BAR | THAT YOUR GUESTS WILL LOVE!
Congrats, you’re hitched! Maybe you’ve been saving financially for this big day for years, or perhaps your engagement was a little out-of-the-blue, or times have been tough lately, and you've had to dig into your wedding budget for everyday life. No matter your bank account’s state, everyone enjoys saving a little here and there. Especially when you find yourself feeling like an ATM, continuously spitting out deposits for DJs, caterers, photographers—the list goes on. Of course, you want to invite all your friends, family, and co-workers, and show them the best party they’ve ever seen! Not to mention, you want to show your guests how much you appreciate their presence by providing endless food, favours, and unlimited alcohol. Open bars are a fantastic way to treat your guests, but when the time comes to "pay the Piper," you may wish you had been a little more savvy with your wedding budget. Here are some ways to still treat your guests to complimentary goodies while avoiding that hefty open bar charge.
PURCHASE YOUR OWN ALCOHOL (FOR BACKYARD/PRIVATE PROPERTY CEREMONIES)
Despite hiring a bartender to serve your guests at your backyard wedding, you may still need to decide whether to have the bartender buy your alcohol or purchase it yourself. One way to save cash is by buying everything yourself. It takes some extra effort, but buying in bulk often means unopened bottles or cases can be returned for a refund!
A BEVERAGE BARREL OR CANOE
Another great alternative to an open bar is to provide guests with a canoe or barrel filled with complimentary beer or coolers. This quirky and cost-effective setup can also add some character to your wedding decor. Plus, with everyone looking their best in stylish wedding guest dresses, they'll love the casual vibe!
MAKE YOUR OWN WINE
Whether it’s for a backyard wedding or another venue, homemade wine can cost as little as $3 a bottle, helping you save big. Personalize the labels for a special touch—this can also be a great way to match the theme of your wedding guest dresses with the decor.
POURING SERVICE VS. BOTTLES OF WINE ON TABLES
Consider offering a pouring service instead of leaving bottles of wine on tables. It ensures that guests’ glasses stay filled without wasting full bottles that go untouched. Less waste means more savings, and this service keeps everyone refreshed, including your guests, who will look great in their carefully chosen wedding guest dresses.
A FEATURED COCKTAIL
Instead of an open bar, consider offering a featured cocktail that reflects your personalities or wedding theme. This allows you to control costs while still giving your guests something special. If you choose a cocktail that reflects your theme, your guests’ wedding guest dresses will match the vibe too!
COMPLIMENTARY PROSECCO, CHAMPAGNE, OR SPARKLING WINE
A glass of bubbly is always a classy touch, whether it's served throughout the night or just for the toast. Your guests will love the gesture, and it adds a magical moment to your big day, complementing the elegance of their wedding guest dresses.
DITCH THE SHOTS
Shots can quickly drive up the cost of an open bar and may lead to less-than-ideal moments. Save your guests (and your budget) by sticking to more controlled drink options. Plus, with everyone in their finest wedding guest dresses, they’ll appreciate a more sophisticated celebration.
