Which Bar Option is Right for You?

1. Drink Ticket Bar
How it works:
You pre-purchase a set number of drink tickets, usually 1 to 3 per guest. Guests use their tickets at the bar and can purchase more on their own if desired.
Best for:

• Corporate mixers and casual receptions
• Events with shorter timeframes (1 to 2 hours)
• Groups with mixed drinking habits

Pros:

• Budget-friendly and easy to manage
• Still offers a hosted feel
• Limits overconsumption
• No pressure on non-drinkers

Considerations:

• Guests may run out of tickets quickly
• Can feel less inclusive if not clearly explained
• Bar lines may move slower as tickets are exchanged

Pro tip:
Pair with light appetizers or host NA beverages so everyone feels included, even if they’re not using tickets.

2. Hosted Open Bar
How it works:
You fully host the bar for a set period of time. Guests can order beer, wine, or spirits freely during the hosted timeframe.
Best for:

• Weddings and formal celebrations
• Company appreciation events
• Receptions where you want a seamless guest experience

Pros:

• Easiest and most inclusive option
• Great for high-end or milestone events
• Keeps the line moving quickly
• No guest confusion about what’s covered

Considerations:

• Can be higher in cost depending on guest drinking habits
• Less control over exact spend unless you cap it by time or type
• Some planners opt to host only beer and wine to keep it streamlined

Pro tip:
We can help you estimate average consumption so you aren’t overcommitting. Hosting beer and wine only is a good middle-ground if you're concerned about costs.

3. On-Consumption Bar
How it works:
You only pay for what is actually ordered during the event. We keep a running tab and you can set a total cap or a time limit.
Best for:

• Smaller groups or shorter events
• Planners who want flexibility
• Clients with last-minute or evolving headcounts

Pros:

• You don’t overpay for unused packages
• Gives flexibility to scale based on guest behavior
• No upfront ticket distribution required

Considerations:

• Harder to predict exact cost in advance
• Requires someone to monitor or set clear limits with the venue
• Risk of going over if not capped or watched closely

Pro tip:
Use this option with a defined time limit or soft cap. We’ll notify you if your tab is getting close to a pre-set amount.

4. Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options
​How it works:
We offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks including soda, lemonade, sparkling water, and signature mocktails. These can be hosted on their own, served on consumption, or added to your main bar plan.
Best for:

• Family gatherings or under-21 events
• Company functions with wellness initiatives
• Any group that wants an inclusive experience

Pros:

• Guests who don’t drink still feel included
• Helps balance the bar
• Lower cost per guest than alcohol packages

Considerations:

• If you’re only hosting mocktails or NA drinks, be sure to communicate that clearly on your invitation or signage
• NA drinks can still run up the tab if guests order frequently, so clarify service style

Pro tip:
Pair mocktails with a branded name or printed menu to make them feel special, not like an afterthought.

5. Hybrid Options
Many clients choose a blend of the above for flexibility and flow. Here are a few examples:

• Two drink tickets per guest, followed by a cash bar
• Hosted beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks, with cocktails available for purchase
• Full open bar for the first hour, then switch to drink tickets or on-consumption

Why it works:
This gives structure to your event while keeping costs predictable and offering guests options.

How to Decide What’s Right for You
Ask yourself these questions:

• How long is your event?
• What is your target spend per guest?
• Will most guests be drinking, or do you expect a mix?
• Is this a formal or casual event?
• Do you want a fully hosted experience or a partially structured one?

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to walk you through real examples from past events to help you decide.

Let’s Build the Right Bar for Your Event
From casual mixers to large receptions, we’ll help you customize your bar service to match your vision, timeline, and budget. Just let us know your guest count and goals, and we’ll take care of the details.