Hosted Bar Vs. Cash Bar
I am getting married in October and the budget is way higher than we wanted and to be honest, we are getting nervous on how to pay for everything. We have cut a little here and there.
My question is: Has anyone ever been or had a wedding that there was a cash bar for bottled beer and wine but the bride and groom have paid for keg beer? (Tea, Milk, Coffee and Ice Water are free and provided throughout the night. Is this tacky?
Posted by Shannen; updated 09/14/04
Reply
Nothing is tacky if that`s what you can afford. This is an event where you share a special moment in your life with those who are close to you. They should feel honored to be there. For my wedding we are hosting the first drink. We are giving each person a ticket for one drink,and if they want more, then its a cash bar.
Posted by Lynn; updated 09/14/04
Reply
You have to do whats right for you. If you are paying for your own wedding than who is to say what you should do. The only advise I could give is to give the courtisy to your guest and let them know so if they decide to drink they do have the cah with them. GOOD LUCK!!
Posted by Candida; updated 09/15/04
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Etiquette says no cash bar, but rules are changing everyday. If you prefer to have a cash bar to offer more choices so be it. But one keg beer is actually enough. Our wedding was a few weeks ago and $$ was very tight. We offered one type of keg beer, one signature alcoholic drink, 2 affordable wines, 3 sodas, punch. And coffee and water. No one complained a bit. Talk to your reception spot and see if you can negotiate for you to bring your own liquor or bottled beer. I noticed you didn`t mention free soda/pop. That willl likely be a problem. Not everyone will want to drink alcohol and asking them to pay for soda is a bit much, escecially if you are having children attending.
Posted by Finally Hitched; updated 09/15/04
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Guests should not be charged for any type of food or drink offered at the reception to which you`ve invited them. If you can`t afford it then don`t serve it.
Posted by Linda; updated 09/16/04
