Do You Need a Bartender at Your Wedding? Our Honest Opinion

One question we hear a lot from couples planning their wedding is, “do we really need to hire a bartender?”

We recently stumbled upon a Reddit thread where a couple was bravely considering ditching the bartender at their wedding and letting guests serve themselves. The responses were… interesting, to say the least.

Some folks were worried about the bar turning into a chaotic mess:

“the bar would likely get very messy and unkempt unless someone is hired to keep it clean and tidy”

“I would never let a large group of people serve their own. It will be a mess within 2 hours.”

​​“I’d at the very least nominate a family member or friend to keep an eye on it and tidy/clean throughout the night and restock drinks/napkins/etc if necessary.”

Others were concerned about overindulgence and running out of booze:

“Get a bartender. Even for a beer and wine wedding. Otherwise people end up way too drunk.”

And then there were the practical folks:

“That seems like a good way to run out of alcohol almost immediately lol”

“If you’re just serving beer and wine in your backyard it should be fine without one. But if you’re serving hard liquor and you have a ton of guests, hire a bartender. Otherwise it’s going to turn into a frat party.”

…and we couldn’t be more proud of these responses!

Here’s our favourite:

Here at The Clever Barkeep, we get it. Weddings are expensive, and every penny counts. But we also know that your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and the bar can be a major highlight – if it’s done right.

So, here’s our honest opinion, backed by years of experience slinging drinks at weddings all over Atlantic Canada:

No, you don’t NEED a bartender at your wedding. BUT… you probably WANT one.

Here’s why:

A Professional Bartender Offers So Much More Than Just Pouring Drinks

Sure, anyone can pour a beer or open a bottle of wine. But a professional bartender brings much more to the table. Let’s break it down:

• Control Over Pour Sizes: We’re not just pouring drinks; we’re trained to pour the right amount. This means your guests will have a great time without overindulging. It also means your bar budget will go further.
• Party Police (in a Good Way): We’ve got a sixth sense for spotting when someone’s had a little too much fun. We know how to handle those situations discreetly and responsibly, keeping everyone safe and happy.
• The Bar Stays Stocked and Sparkling: No one wants to see a messy bar. We’ll keep everything clean, organized, and fully stocked so your guests can enjoy their drinks without waiting in line.
• Custom Cocktails That Wow: Dreaming of a signature cocktail that reflects your unique love story? We can create a personalized drink menu that will impress your guests and make your wedding unforgettable.
• Fast and Efficient Service: We’re pros at keeping the drinks flowing smoothly, even during peak times. Your guests won’t miss a beat on the dance floor waiting for a refill.
• Expert Advice and Recommendations: Not sure what wine pairs best with your dinner menu? Need suggestions for a fun and festive cocktail? Wondering if a mobile bar is a better idea? We’ve got you covered. We can even help you create a bar menu that fits your budget and style.
• The Life of the Party: A skilled bartender can bring energy and excitement to your wedding. We’ll interact with your guests, tell stories, and maybe even show off some flair bartending skills (if you’re into that sort of thing!).

While it’s technically possible to have a wedding without a bartender, it’s not always the best idea. Unless you’re having a very small, low-key affair, skipping the bartender could lead to overconsumption, safety concerns, and a less-than-stellar guest experience.

Don’t Risk It: Let The Clever Barkeep Handle Your Wedding Bar

No one wants their wedding memories to be marred by a bar gone wild. Hiring professional bartenders from The Clever Barkeep guarantees a smooth, stress-free experience for you and your guests. 

We’re located in Dartmouth but cover the entire Atlantic Canada area.

3 Alternatives to Hiring a Bartender for Your Wedding

Okay, so maybe you’re determined to go the DIY route. We get it, budgets are real. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

1. Self-Service Bar: This can be a budget-friendly option that gives guests the freedom to choose their own drinks. But, it’s not as simple as just setting out some booze and calling it a day. First, check with your venue to ensure self-service bars are allowed and that you follow any liquor license requirements. You’ll also need to stock the bar with ice, garnishes, mixers, and all the necessary tools. And most importantly, you’ll need to assign a responsible friend or family member to monitor the bar throughout the night to prevent overconsumption, keep things tidy, and restock supplies. It’s a lot of work, but it can be done!
2. Canned and Bottled Drinks Only: This option is the ultimate in simplicity. You just need to chill the drinks and set them out for guests to grab. It’s great for small weddings where a full or mobile bar setup might not be feasible. While it does limit the variety of drinks, there are plenty of delicious options available. Think local craft beers, hard ciders, sparkling wines, and even pre-mixed cocktails in cans. If you’re looking for something a bit more elevated, our friends at Barkeep Cocktails offer a fantastic selection of canned cocktails made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
3. Cash Bar: If you’re looking to offset some of the costs, a cash bar can be a solution. But, it’s important to consider how your guests might perceive it. Some people might find it a bit off-putting to pay for drinks at a wedding. However, a cash bar doesn’t have to be a buzzkill. At The Clever Barkeep, we offer cash bar services that include professional bartenders, high-quality ingredients, and a touch of elegance to make sure your guests feel pampered even if they’re reaching for their wallets. Contact us for a consultation here to see how we can make a cash bar work for your wedding.

Not Sure What’s Right for You? Schedule a Free Consultation with The Clever Barkeep

For most weddings, hiring a professional bartender is a smart investment. It will ensure a smooth, stress-free experience for you and your guests, and it can even elevate the overall atmosphere of your celebration.

Still not sure you need a bartender?

We’d love to connect. Let’s chat about your wedding bar! We’ll help you assess your needs, discuss your options, and create a custom bar package that’s perfect for your wedding in Atlantic Canada.