Know Your Bars:
The Open Bar
An open bar is the most gracious approach -- no guest should pay for anything at the wedding -- but
it's also the most expensive. Guests can order any drink on the planet, and you'll have to pick up the
hefty tab when the party's done. Because there’s no limit, people may drink like guppies. Know
anyone who tends to imbibe too much? Tell the bartender in advance.
The Limited Bar
You offer a selection of drinks -- beer, wine, and mixed vodka drinks, for example -- and set specific
consumption times, such as the cocktail hour, the toasts, and an hour after dinner. Consider hiring
waiters to pass drinks on trays rather than letting guests go up to the bar. You'll have to pay for the
waiters, but you'll probably save money on alcohol, and fewer guests will go overboard. If you limit the
amount of time the bar is open, make sure the waiters circulate during dinner to refill glasses of water
and soda.
The Cash Bar
Don't have a cash bar without a great reason (there really isn't one). After all, you don't invite people
to your house for dinner and then charge them for the butter. Trust us on this one. It's not a good
cost-cutting solution and is way too controversial.
A Dry House
If you, your families, and most of your guests don't drink alcohol, skip it. Serve sparkling water, soda,
and nonalcoholic mixed drinks instead. If you want some bubbly for toasting, go for some token
champagne or sparkling cider.
Resources: Leslie Lamb, beverage catering director of Gordon's Fine Wines & Liquors, Waltham, MA
http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/wedding-reception-planning/articles/how-to-stock-the-bar-at-
your-wedding.aspx