Cash Bar

I think a cash bar is considered rude. When I go to a reception, and I`m giving the couple a nice wedding present or cash already, asking me to pay for drinks too is tacky. Just provide beer & wine, anything else have the guest pay for. Or, limit the time for the open bar, and then pay after that.

I think it`s fine depending on where you are from and what the "norm" usually is. Where I am from, and with the people who will be at my wedding, a cash bar is expected. My friends/family actually find it rude to NOT expect a cash bar. They`re very surprised when the entire function is open bar. They realize that we are paying a lot of inflated prices for other aspects, and they also know that a gift is NOT required or expected from us, just their attendance. So for my wedding, we will do the first two hours open bar, and then the rest of the reception (another 2 hours) will be cash bar. Ask around to the people you`ll be inviting, ask casually, and feel out their responses, and use that info to determine your decision. This shouldn`t be uncomfortable, as they would be friends or family members.

First of all, what is your budget? Remember, alcohol is a treat, not a must have. The best way is probably the limited bar, like stated above, pay for so much and once that runs out, they pay. Also consider where you are having your reception. Is it at home, restaurant, church, etc. There are liability laws. If anything happens to a guest from your reception, it may fall on you. It vareis state to state. Take everything into consideration. If at a restaurant, have them make a proposal with some alcohol and without. See what you can afford. Remember, it is your wedding. If people want to go just to get drunk, then do you really want them there at your expense? Good luck.