The DIY Wedding Bar: How to DIY Drinks and Bartenders

Depending on your reception venue many brides are choosing to purchase alcohol for their guest as a money saving tip. You can look to places like a Costco that sell wholesale beverages for additional savings. I am going to supply you with the rule of thumb when purchasing alcohol and just how much to purchase per 100 guest. Keep in mind, only you and your fiance truly know your guest and just how much they will consume.

Use this as a starter guide if you are stocking your own bar:

Champagne Toast: 1.5 cases (18 bottles) per 100 guest assuming 6 glasses per bottle
White Wine - 18 Bottles. People typically drink more white wines than red
Red Wine - 10 bottles {If you are serving both, consider buying half red & half white}
Scotch - 3 liters
Beer - 2-3 cases
Whiskey - 1 or 2 liters
Bourbon - 1 or 2 liters
Vodka - 6 liters
Gin - 2 liters
Tequila - 1 liter
Club Soda - 1 case
Cranberry Juice - 2 gallons
Grapefruit juice - 1 gallon
Orange juice - 1 gallon

If your caterer does not provide a bartender or have access to one, look to your local bartending schools to find new graduates that may be looking for pick up gigs. This makes it super affordable, but also a win/win because they are aware of all the new drink mixes, as well as all the classics!