Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life, and you want to make sure that your guests have an amazing time. One way to ensure that your guests have a great time is to provide an open bar. However, an open bar can be expensive, and you may be wondering what the average cost of an open bar at a wedding is. In this article, we will take a look at the average cost of an open bar at a wedding.
Factors That Affect the Cost of an Open Bar at a Wedding
The cost of an open bar at a wedding can vary depending on a number of factors. Some of the factors that can affect the cost of an open bar at a wedding include:
The Number of Guests
The more guests you have, the more expensive your open bar will be. You will need to provide enough alcohol for all of your guests, and that can add up quickly.
The Type of Alcohol
The type of alcohol you serve can also affect the cost of your open bar. For example, serving top-shelf liquor will be more expensive than serving house liquor.
The Duration of the Open Bar
The longer your open bar is open, the more expensive it will be. If you are having a cocktail hour, a dinner, and a reception, you will need to budget for the cost of an open bar for each of these events.
The Location of the Wedding
The location of your wedding can also affect the cost of your open bar. If you are getting married in a major city, the cost of alcohol may be higher than if you are getting married in a smaller town.
The Average Cost of an Open Bar at a Wedding
The average cost of an open bar at a wedding is around $15-$20 per person per hour. This means that if you have 100 guests and you want to have an open bar for 5 hours, you can expect to pay around $7,500-$10,000.
However, it is important to keep in mind that this is just an average, and your actual cost may be higher or lower depending on the factors we mentioned earlier.
Tips for Saving Money on an Open Bar at a Wedding
If you are looking to save money on your open bar, there are a few things you can do:
Offer a Limited Selection of Alcohol
Offering a limited selection of alcohol can help you save money. You can offer a signature cocktail and a few beer and wine options instead of a full bar.
Set a Budget
Setting a budget for your open bar can help you keep costs under control. You can decide how much you want to spend and then work with your caterer or bartender to come up with a plan that fits within your budget.
Consider a Cash Bar
While a cash bar may not be the most popular option, it can help you save money. You can offer a limited selection of alcohol for free and then offer other options for purchase.
Conclusion
An open bar can be a great way to ensure that your guests have a great time at your wedding, but it can also be expensive. By understanding the factors that affect the cost of an open bar and implementing some money-saving tips, you can provide a great experience for your guests without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is the average cost of an open bar at a wedding?
The average cost of an open bar at a wedding is around $15-$20 per person per hour.
What factors can affect the cost of an open bar at a wedding?
The number of guests, the type of alcohol, the duration of the open bar, and the location of the wedding can all affect the cost of an open bar at a wedding.
How can I save money on an open bar at a wedding?
You can save money on an open bar at a wedding by offering a limited selection of alcohol, setting a budget, and considering a cash bar.
