…that is the question a lot of party planners ask….do we really need a professional bar and service?

Using a trestle table with a white cloth might seem an obvious way to save money in this current climate but you really do need a functional space that can serve all your guests - about 2m of counter per 80 guests. You also need to think about back bar areas and under counter areas to hold ice, glassware (about 5 needed per guest from our experience), all the stock (don’t keep them on the front bar !!!) and kegs of beer. And the one place your guests will look for when they first enter your marquee or venue - yep - the bar !!! So whilst you can get away with a table, there are some clear advantages that come with a professional bar that looks AND acts the part. And professional bartenders in uniform, that can serve with style, will make your party far more enjoyable for all. Probably the best thing of all is that hiring a bar and bar service takes away the headache of organising and managing the bar, the stock, the service and the after-party clear up…we proudly state that the only headache you will get is the one you’ll wake up with the morning after!

There are a number of options to choose from - each one having a different effect on your budget. Cash bars are probably the best option for smaller budgets as they usually work on a desposit basis, whereby you get money back if the bar takes over a certain amount. So keep any free alcohol to a minimum as this will seriously affect bar revenue!! And you can always use a ticket system whereby you buy each guest one drink at the bar (we have really stylish tickets that can be redeemed at the bar). There are also free bar service options and dry bar hire options for you to think about…see the next page for more details and advantages and disadvantages of each.