Photo by Visio Photography

Yes, we do mean “bring your own beer.” Many couples (and famlies!) don’t realize how much money can be saved by providing your own alcohol. If the average bar tender (in Memphis, TN) runs about $150 for a night, can you imagine what the alcohol markup will be for your event?

We always try to suggest that you bring your own alcohol. Figuring out how much of each type can be daunting, but all you need to do is go to your local liquor store and ask for a little help. Before you go, you need to think about this: how many of your guests are wine drinkers? How many are beer drinkers? What about mixed drinks? Percentages are ok to give the liquor store attendant.

You shouldn’t feel like you need to have an open bar. If you want to, go for it! If not, guests are perfectly happy with beer and wine. It’s ok to set limits.

If you’re providing your own liquor, let the caterer know. They may employ a bar tender to work your event, or you may need to fine your own. This is an important question to ask: what will the bartender provide, if anything? Make sure you have bottle openers, cork screws, napkins, ice, cups, stir sticks, and any other accessories you want. The bartender may provide some of these, and the caterer may provide the rest…just be sure to cross your T’s and dot your I’s!

So, you’ve decided to bring your own alcohol. Who’s going to bring it to the reception location and when?