Event Planning on a Budget–Part Five: Have a Drink?

This is the last of my recent weekly series on budget event planning.  I’ve discussed budgeting, venues, catering, and–today–beverages.  If you’re on a budget, you might also be interested in my series on DIY weddings about things you can do yourself, and things you should not try.

Champagne toast. Photo courtesy of Artisan Events. Inc.

One way to control costs at your event is by considering the beverages. Non-alcoholic beverages are relatively inexpensive and might be included in your food package. Bar service can either be very expensive or relatively inexpensive, depending on your venue and on the way you procure it. Many venues have bar packages: a beer, wine, and soda package; a mid-price open bar; and a top shelf, among others. Prices are generally either a flat per-person charge or are based on consumption.  If you are on a budget, the beer, wine, and soda option is generally affordable. One way to liven up a beer and wine package is to add a signature cocktail to the package. This can often be done without a large additional cost.

If your venue and/or caterer allow you to provide the alcohol, you have even more options. The least expensive of these is to purchase the alcohol yourself at a liquor store. Be sure to choose a store with good prices that allows returns of unopened bottles. This option also gives you maximum flexibility in your choice of what to serve. There are even a few liquor stores that provide event service. They will sell you the liquor, deliver it to the venue, provide glassware at no extra charge, and pick up anything left the next day to give you a refund or credit. These establishments are becoming a rarity, however, so don’t be surprised if you need to do the heavy lifting yourself.   And make sure that bar glasses are on your equipment rental order.

The one thing I never recommend for keeping costs under control is to have a cash bar. As the host of the party, it is your obligation to provide food and drink for your guests. (Miss Manners would be appalled if you had a cash bar!)  If your resources dictate a limited supply of alcohol, your guests will live with it. The quantity of alcohol served is not a measure of how good the party is.  Serve what you can afford and you will have enough money left over to do whatever else is important to you at your event.