How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Drinks Package

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable events of your life, and every detail, including the drinks package, plays a role in creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

Choosing the right wedding drinks package involves more than just picking champagne for toasts; it’s about ensuring that everyone is catered to, your budget stays intact, and your wedding atmosphere is exactly how you want to be. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect drinks package for your big day!

1. Understand What Your Venue Can Offer

Many venues provide in-house drinks packages, while others may allow you to bring your own caterers in. Start by asking the venue about their policies, corkage fees, and available packages. Compare these options to determine whether their offerings meet your expectations and fit within your budget. Evening Bar Service or Cocktail Hour provided by caterers is not going to be the same as having a dedicated premium bar service with expert Bartenders there to curate exceptional drinks and cocktails so it’s always worth bearing this in mind before you decide what you want for the day.

We are always on hand to fill in where your venue may be unable to help or may not have the ability to cater to your needs. At Near and Far Mobile Bar we can provide drinks service from arrival drinks pre-ceremony, welcome drinks post-ceremony, table wine service, toast drinks, cocktail hour and full bar service in the evening. We love being able to help you create an incredible day’s drink package for you and your guests.

2. Consider Your Budget

Before choosing what you want it’s always a good idea to get an idea on your budget and how you want to approach the bar spend on the day. Day time drinks are typically covered by the wedding couple but by the same token that may not be how you want to approach the day. Whatever option you choose there are however, many ways to approach the evening bar. Getting an idea on your budget will help you narrow down your options and make informed choices. Remember to account for corkage fees at your venue, bartender costs, and glassware rental if they’re not included in the package. At Near and Far Mobile Bar we don’t have any hidden costs when it comes to Bartender hire or glassware hire. We like to keep our packages as transparent as possible to help with the decision-making process!

Photography by Zeal Photography

3. Know Your Guest Preferences

Think about the preferences of your guests. Will they enjoy a classic selection of wine and beer, or would they appreciate specially curated cocktails? Providing a variety ensures that everyone has something they enjoy. We would always advise considering also offering non-alcoholic options for arrival drinks and welcome drinks like mocktails, sparkling water, and juice for those who prefer not to drink!

4. Choose the Right Package Type

Most Wedding drinks packages typically fall into several categories:

• Per Head Packages: You pay a set amount per guest for a specific selection of drinks.

• Consumption-Based Packages: You are charged based on the actual number of drinks consumed.

• Open Bar: Guests can order unlimited drinks, with the final bill determined at the end of the day.

• Cash Bar: Guests pay for their own drinks.

Choose the package type that aligns best with your budget and your priorities for the guests experience on the day. We offer all options listed above for our drinks packages so we can find the right option for you!

5. Think About the Flow of the Day

Once you have chosen your package plan the drinks menu based on the timeline of your wedding day. Here are the areas we would suggest you consider for the day and the most popular drink options chosen for each stage of the day:

·      Pre-ceremony Arrival Drinks: Welcome guests to your wedding day with a glass of prosecco, a signature cocktail, or refreshing mocktails.

• Arrival Drinks: Welcome guests with a glass of prosecco, icy cool beers, a signature cocktail, or refreshing mocktails.

• Dinner Service: Choose from a selection of premium grade wines or provide a selection of beer and soft drinks for your guests.

• Toast: Opt for champagne or sparkling wine or prosecco for the toast.

• Evening Reception: Offer a mix of cocktails, beer, soft drinks and spirits to keep the party going!

6. Signature Cocktails

Adding a personal touch with signature cocktails can be a fun way to reflect your personalities as a couple. As well as having a complimentary tasting at our Head Office we can work with you to curate drinks that tie into your wedding theme or favourite flavours.

7. Don’t Forget Non-Alcoholic Options

Ensure you cater to guests who prefer not to drink alcohol. Offer a selection of mocktails, soft drinks and flavoured waters to keep everyone hydrated and happy. We always provide complimentary water stations throughout your service with us to keep everyone hydrated.

8. Seasonal Considerations

Take the season of your wedding into account when selecting drinks. For a summer wedding, light and refreshing options like spritzers and iced cocktails work well. In winter, consider  warm drinks like mulled wine or warming or spiced cocktails like Old Fashioned’s or Moscow Mules.

9. Schedule a Tasting

When choosing a supplier always ask if you can schedule a tasting before making your final decision. This allows you to sample the drinks and simultaneously make any necessary adjustments to the menu. After booking with us you will be invited to our Head Office to try your chosen or signature cocktails ahead of your day.

Final Thoughts…

Because every wedding is unique we offer a no-obligation discovery call to all potential Clients to help them discover the options we offer.

This also helps our Couples to plan the drinks service on the day. We are here to help guide you make the best choices based on balancing your budget, guest preferences, and the overall vibe you want to create on the day.

Photography by Zeal Photography