Open Bar Cost Factors
The open bar price for a wedding depends on the number of guests. Full open bars cost more than other types like self-service or cash bars, providing guests with free alcohol paid for by the couple or wedding planner. You can expect to spend $15 to $50 per drinking guest.
Budgeting for Your Bar
When budgeting, estimate costs based on the drinks served, number of guests, bartenders, glassware, and additional fees. After estimating costs, set a realistic budget aligned with overall wedding expenses.
Additionally, for 50 guests, expect to spend from a few hundred to tens of thousands on alcohol. Prices vary based on drinks served and reception duration. The average cost is around $3,000 for 100 guests, and with taxes and licenses, expect to pay over $3,500.
Making the Right Choice
It’s essential to ensure that guest counts, drink choices, venue policies, and overall vision and budget align. Most couples choose open bars, with an average cost of $3,406 for 131 guests at $20 per person, including a 15% markup for taxes and tips.
The longer the open bar runs, the more it will cost. Location also matters; open bar prices may double or triple in big cities. To economize, some guests bring their drinks or have friends or family run the bar. For dinner, estimate two glasses of wine per guest, costing from $2 to $20, while beer will cost around $2 to $5 per person. Mixed drink costs vary.
Calculating Open Bar Costs
To calculate open bar costs for a wedding, compare the alcohol served to earnings and consider cover charges if applicable. Remember that food sales can also help determine profitability.
The average cost to rent a venue is $15,439, with significant factors being location, date, and whether it’s all-inclusive. The national average wedding cost is $33,931.
Pay vendors through individual contracts, with some requiring full amounts upfront and others allowing monthly payments.
Average price breakdown: Venue and rentals cost $11,592, which is usually the most significant expense. Destination weddings and more intimate venues are likely to be more expensive. Use online tools like the Wedding Planning Assistant and the Wedding Cost Calculator to estimate total costs virtually and collaboratively.
Utilizing Wedding Planning Tools
Opportunity cost represents the foregone alternative when selecting an investment. The Wedding Planner provides the best free tools, suppliers, and ideas, with a payment system that spreads out costs into small monthly payments up to 36 months in advance. Additionally, there are cashback options on bookings. New Wedding Planner books simplify the planning process with tips and worksheets, and you can find daily wedding inspiration.