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Blog post
When planning a wedding, alcohol can be one of the most significant expenses. The average cost for an open bar at a wedding in the U.S. with premium liquor or signature cocktails is $50 to $75 per guest. So, if you host a 150 person wedding at $75 a person, that could cost you over $11,000... 🤯 But with a bit of creativity and planning, you can still provide drinks for your guests without breaking the bank. Here are 13 practical ways to save money on alcohol for your big day.
Purchasing alcohol in bulk can significantly reduce costs. Wholesale stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, or your local liquor shop often offer discounts when you buy by the case. Whether you’re purchasing wine, beer, or spirits, buying in bulk is one of the easiest ways to save.
Instead of offering a full bar with every possible drink option, limit the menu to a few choices. Stick to wine, beer, and a couple of signature cocktails. Fewer choices mean you’ll buy less variety, saving both money and time. Plus, signature cocktails can add a personalized touch.
Many venues will allow you to bring your own alcohol, which can lead to significant savings. This way, you avoid paying the marked-up prices that many venues charge. However, make sure to check if the venue charges a corkage or service fee, and weigh that cost against the potential savings.
If you’re not set on having alcohol at your wedding, you could opt for a dry wedding or limit alcohol to just a champagne toast. Alternatively, you can offer non-alcoholic specialty drinks, such as mocktails or craft sodas, which can be just as enjoyable.
Weddings held during the day, such as brunch or lunch receptions, tend to have lighter alcohol consumption. Your guests will naturally drink less during the day, meaning you can save on alcohol without anyone noticing.
Kegs are often much more affordable than individual bottles or cans of beer. Serving beer on tap reduces waste and saves money, and you can choose just one or two types of beer to streamline costs.
There’s no need to spend on top-shelf liquor for your wedding. Choose local breweries or affordable, well-rated wines. Many inexpensive brands offer great quality at a lower cost, and your guests won’t notice the difference.
Skip the extra expense of buying champagne just for toasts. Instead, have your guests raise whatever drink they already have in hand. This eliminates the need for a special round of drinks, while still keeping the moment festive.
If you’re paying for alcohol by the hour, consider shortening the reception. A shorter event means less time for guests to drink, which in turn cuts down on your overall alcohol expenditure.
Many vendors allow you to return unopened bottles of alcohol. Take advantage of this policy by purchasing slightly more than you think you need, and then returning whatever you don’t use.
Though it’s not always the most popular option, having a cash bar can reduce your alcohol costs significantly. You can still offer a free round of drinks during the toast, or provide drink tickets for each guest to use.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with your venue or caterer for a better deal on alcohol. Some vendors are willing to offer discounts or bundle services, especially if you’re bringing your own alcohol.
Serving only wine and beer is a surefire way to save money. Liquor-based drinks and cocktails can be more expensive due to the higher alcohol content and the variety required for a full bar. Sticking to a selection of wine and beer is simpler and more budget-friendly.
Your wedding should be a celebration, but it doesn’t have to lead to financial stress. With these smart strategies, you can serve alcohol at your wedding without exceeding your budget. Remember, the most important part of the day is celebrating with the people you love—not how much you spend on drinks.
