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R&B2016
VIP October 2016

Before Ceremony Bar

R&B2016, on July 23, 2016 at 5:22 PM Posted in Etiquette and Advice 0 10

I'd like to start by saying we are having an open bar for our cocktail hour and reception. We are also having a greeting station with apple cider donuts and champagne for guests before our ceremony.

Our venue asked if we would like to have the bar open as a cash bar before the ceremony (so for those early arrivers). I know that typically cash bars are no go (obviously), but what about in this instance? Essentially, they've said the bartenders would say something like "Currently we are a cash bar, but there will be an open bar beginning during the cocktail hour. You can also help yourself to donuts and champagne!" Is this in bad taste even if it's only pre-ceremony and there is an option for complimentary champagne??

10 Comments

Latest activity by Lori, on July 23, 2016 at 6:36 PM
  • Christina
    VIP September 2017
    Christina ·
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    Does it have to be a cash bar? If so, nix it. If it can be an open bar, don't do a cash bar.

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  • Rachel DellaPorte
    Rachel DellaPorte ·
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    First of all, are you really expecting so many early arrivals that you feel the need to serve refreshments to them?

    In any event, if you are serving something at a greeting station for those who may attend early, your Event Manager should advise your guests that they are welcome to help themselves to the donuts and champagne your are hosting for this very small portion of your event (and try to set up it away from the real bar). If guests wander over to the bar, please ask the bartender not to use the words "cash bar" when talking to your guests. All he/she needs to say is, "My apologies, the bar for the remdgmillionaire wedding will open immediately after the ceremony."

    In all honesty, I think you pre-ceremony hosting of champagne is lovely and generous.

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  • N
    Master October 2016
    no1 ·
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    Honestly I dont think you need to have anything before the ceremony. Donuts and champagne are more than enough. But dont do a cash bar then an open bar, it confusing and unnecessary.

    Edit: centerpiece said it best.

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  • Kathleen Smith
    Kathleen Smith ·
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    Donuts and champagne are VERY generous! No need for anything more. If you decide to have more drinks available, IMO it should be an open bar. But truly, what you are offering is P.L.E.N.T.Y.

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  • 5starFM
    VIP January 2017
    5starFM ·
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    Don't confuse your guests. I know they will mention it is open later, but you are offering enough with the champagne and donuts. And it's before the ceremony. Everything you are offering (free of course) is a bonus. No to cash bar.

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  • OGJessieJV
    Master July 1867
    OGJessieJV ·
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    I don't bring cash to a wedding except in a card for the couple. Guess what would be paying for drinks?

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  • Mrs. Sasswood
    Master October 2016
    Mrs. Sasswood ·
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    Mine asked the same thing and refused to let us pay beforehand or keep a tab so our guests still drink for free. So we've opted out of doing it altogether. It's not expected to have preceremony drinks and our cocktail hour and reception will be completely open bar.

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  • Kari
    Master October 2016
    Kari ·
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    The event coordinator is just trying to make more money for the venue. While it's a nice gesture to have more drinks. stick with the donuts and champagne. That's more than enough.

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  • R&B2016
    VIP October 2016
    R&B2016 ·
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    Thanks guys. That's what I thought myself, just wanted to see if this was a common thing or not! I think donuts and champagne will be plenty!

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  • Lori
    Master June 2015
    Lori ·
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    Great, now I want donuts and champagne!

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