Putting money behind the bar

I've been to a wedding where they had a sign on an easel next to the bar which said something like 'please feel free to have a drink on us but remember, no shots, doubles or bubles'

we had shots and paid for them but our standard drinks were free.

I wouldn't say anything & just give instructions to the bar staff about what the money can be used on. They'll soon find out. Or are you doing a printed menu - could you put a note on the bottom & tell them help themselvesto a selected drinks? X

I agree with Chucklevision - just give instructions to the bar staff. The guests will soon work it out.

I wouldn't tell guests there's money behind the bar perhaps the first drink is on us...

When you go to an all inclusive place they have drinks menus showing the free.selections .. And states anything else that is chargeable? Could do something along those lines?

Or how about give the ushers a task going around asking what people would like to drink for their first drink that way.. You have control?

Thank you so much for the advice. I love the no shots, doubles or bubbles. That's a nice way to put it. I"ll get the bar staff to manage it and like you say the guests will work it out. Thanks for all your help everyone.

A little note saying "This is a pi$$ up, not a pi$$ take" ?

I've worked so many weddings and always say to guests (after clear instructions from the bride and groom) first drink is on them. If they order a double I just let them know it's just singles etc. most guests usually know what's expected but you do get the odd cheeky one. Make sure all staff know what the deal is with drinks and will run smoothly xx

We didn't tell anyone, just instructed the bar staff about the 'no bubbles, doubles or shots' rule.

Our guests were all pretty much big social drinkers and if we had announced a free bar, it would barely have lasted an hour! By not announcing it, it meant they tended to finish the wine on the tables first.