The Bar Bill

Ways to save!

1> Forgo The Full Bar ~
Providing only beer, wine, soda, and signature drink can cut your bill in half.
2> Find A Byob Venue~
Choose a site that will let you bring in your own liquor. Buy it by the case to save 10 to 15 percenst off the cost of single bottles. Return unopened bottles, if that's allowed in your state.
3> Say Yes To A Different Bubbly~
Instead of the real French stuff, serve a sparkling wine like Prosecco (Italy) or Cava (Spain), which mimic champagne's bubble personality but not its price tag.
4> Avoid Designer Labels
Choose nonbrand liquors and house wines instead of premium brands. Most guest won't notice.
5> Use Trays
Have waiters offer glasses of champagne and wine from trays. This way, you can serve less expensive varities without worring about guest judging the drink label.
6> Think Tuesday
Are most of your guest local? Get married on an off-night (Sunday through Thursday). People tend to drink less when they have to work the next day.
7> Go Ethnic
Plan a themed reception, then limit beverages to a few appropriate options - wine with Italian celebration, or Corona and margaritas for a mexican party, for example.
8> Work With Your Waitstaff
Ask that servers clear just the empty glasses from the tables to avoid driving guests back to the bar when their half-finished G&T has disappeared.
9> Open As Needed
Have bartenders start a new bottle only when needed, or else you'll be charged for that fifth of Johnny Walker Red even if no one orders a single whiskey.
10> Time It Right
Avoid overtime. At the Omni Hotel in Chicago, an extra hour of open bar ($7 per person) would cost $1050 for 150 guest.

HINT HINT ...

A cash bar seems like it's a win-win: You don't pay for the alcohol but your guest still have access to it. But here's the rub: It's Tacky! Opt for beer and wine if you can't afford a full bar.

Sometimes a party minus liquor is necessary (perhaps your religion frowns upon it or the two of you met in AA) :). But to save money? Not such a hot idea. People look forward to having a few drinks at a celebration - don't disappoint them!

Information from Brides Magazine
http://www.jenniferbyrdevents.com/