Question 1

How much alcohol do I need for 100 wedding guests?

Accepted Answer

For 100 guests at a 5-hour reception where 80% drink, plan for approximately 400 drinks. For a full bar, that is roughly 7-8 cases of beer, 30-35 bottles of wine, and 12-15 bottles of liquor. Adjust up for heavy drinkers or longer events, and down if many guests prefer non-alcoholic options.

Question 2

What is the best ratio of beer, wine, and liquor?

Accepted Answer

For a full bar, a common split is 40% beer, 30% wine, and 30% liquor. For beer and wine only, go 50/50. However, your crowd matters: younger guests tend to drink more beer and cocktails, while older guests often prefer wine. Consider your guest list when adjusting these ratios.

Question 3

How much does a wedding bar typically cost?

Accepted Answer

A DIY wedding bar typically costs $8-$15 per guest for beer and wine only, or $15-$30 per guest for a full bar. For 100 guests, expect to spend $1,000-$3,000 total. Buying in bulk from warehouse stores and choosing mid-range brands can save 20-30% compared to retail prices.

Question 4

Can I return unopened alcohol after the wedding?

Accepted Answer

Many liquor stores and warehouse clubs accept returns of unopened bottles and cases. Always check the return policy before purchasing. This is a great reason to slightly over-buy: you can return extras rather than risk running out. Keep all receipts and do not break seals on bottles you might return.

Wedding Alcohol Calculator

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