To have an open bar or not to have an open bar is a big question that many couples face when planning their wedding. Just like with any other area of your wedding there are many factors to consider before making this decision. That's why we've compiled a list of the Pros and Cons of Having an Open Bar at Your Wedding.
Pros of Having an Open Bar
1. Encourages Guest to Socialize
First on our list of Pros and Cons of Having an Open Bar at Your Wedding is that having an open bar can get guests mingling and socializing amongst each other. When people interact with one another, they are more inclined to dance and have fun with one another. Therefore, keeping the party going at your wedding.
2. Don't Have to Decide on What Drinks to Serve
With everything else that you have to decide when it comes to your wedding, you wouldn't have to decide on what drinks to serve or whether or not you should have a signature cocktail and so on. Having an open bar lets your guests decide on what they want to drink.
3. Guest Stay Longer
Nobody wants their wedding to end before the time allotted for the wedding reception. One of the Pros and Cons of an Open Bar at Your wedding is guests tend to stay longer knowing that they have unlimited alcohol consumption. Guests also appreciate the fact that they don't have to bring their wallets or keep track of their spending for drinks.
Cons of Having an Open Bar:
1. Expensive
While having an open bar is nice, let's face it, open bars can be expensive. Be sure to consult with your wedding planner before deciding on an open bar so that you can stay within your financial comfort zone. The budget should be planned as early as possible if you choose an open bar. On the flip side, If you choose a cash bar, at least the guest can carry some of the financial burdens.
2. Guests May Drink Too Much
We all know that people love free stuff, especially free alcohol! So, don't be surprised if you get that one guest who tends to over-indulge. You don't want anyone getting rowdy or annoying during your wedding reception. That could pose a whole other issue. You don't want a guest to ruin your wedding celebration. Another issue could be that guests that drink too much still have to drive home from the venue. Now, this becomes a safety concern.
3. Distracted Guests
You don't want your guests to be distracted and consumed with getting drinks at the bar instead of focusing on the main attraction, YOU! Also, they may be hanging around the bar as opposed to mingling and partying with other guests at the wedding. You don't want the bar area to become the unofficial hang-out spot.
If you would like to learn more about the Pros and Cons of Having an Open Bar at Your Wedding, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners.
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