Bar Tab

Hi!


I think the limit of 4 drinks per guest is more than generous! Most weddings that I have been to have had some kind of drinks package such as bubbly and a couple of bottles of wine per table during the meal and for toasting, always with a laid bar following this.
I wouldn't stress about it but would definitely mention that the bar is paid, just so that guests are aware. I doubt they will have an issue with it... Ultimately they are there because they care about you and if they want to drink more than 4 drinks they can pay for it!
Hope you're enjoying all the planning?

I think drinks tokens are better than any possible awkward situations when the money behind the bar runs out.

If you are worried about any "tacky" connotations, some of my past weddings have had tokens but have themed them with the rest of the wedding which I think helps.

I would go for the tokens - I don't see they are any more 'tacky' than having a set number of wine bottles per table - and at least guests then have their choice of tipple. I can't drink alcohol at all, and I've been to a few weddings where I've had to pay for my own soft drinks because only the table wine was paid for!

Tokens mean that everyone gets the same and, as you say, those who don't want to drink that much can hand their tokens on to someone else. Just having a total spend amount means that those who drink fast could reach the total while others are still on their first drink.

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This raises another of my concerns, as the bar does not open until 6pm. We will have wine and still water on the table, and I was thinking three alternative options: beer, raspberry presse (or other similar 'fancy' soft drink) and squash, which could be requested from the catering staff - we'll have a little note on the table saying 'don't fancy wine?' and listing the other options. How does that sound to you as a non-drinker?

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I think that's a lovely idea and very thoughtful. I'm used to just having a jug of tap water at receptions, and I never mind that, but it's always nice to have a more interesting option available. Makes the occasion feel a little more festive, and it means a lot that the bride and groom have taken the trouble.

It's especially nice if there is a non-alcoholic option available for toasts - it's the one time I really hate not being able to drink, as I feel very conspicuous toasting the happy couple in orange squash or water!!! So if you're having toasts, maybe get an elderflower or apple presse instead of raspberry, so it 'fits in' more with the champagne? Just a thought!

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Ooh thanks - excellent point about the toast drink. We'll have to work out with the caterers how to offer an alternative, as they had suggested having the champagne ready-poured when guests sat down (speeches before the food), and people won't always know in advance whether they want to drink or not!

Our drinks reception is sparkling rose, hence the raspberry presse to fit in with that, but no reason we can't have a champagne-coloured version for the toasts as well.

Interestingly, the venue said they always end up throwing away loads of toast champagne, so we were originally planning something else, but fiance's mum really wants champagne.