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Kristen
Just Said Yes October 2021

Cash Bar? How Tacky is it?

Kristen, on November 18, 2020 at 1:36 AM Posted in Wedding Reception 0 12
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The venue that we chose it a small wooded park behind a gourmet pizza place. We love it, However, we were told that because of COVID they couldn’t allow a bar down in the park area, because everything would need to be individually sealed. Guest, however, are able to purchase alcohol from the restaurant and bring it themselves into the park. My fiancé and I don’t drink and most of the guests would be fine with no alcohol. I am wondering if it is tacky to have guest purchase their own alcohol if they choose to and if so do I warn them? Or do I set up some kind of tab with the restaurant and cover the alcohol purchased?

12 Comments

Latest activity by Michelle, on December 2, 2020 at 1:16 PM
  • Rebecca
    Master August 2019
    Rebecca ·
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    I think you might want to punt on this question. You've still got 10 months before your wedding, and a LOT of restrictions might change before then.

    You can certainly explore the tab with the restaurant, or make it a BYOB affair... but if you can hold off on this decision, I would.

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  • M
    Super October 2022
    Michele ·
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    If you and your guests do not drink, do not offer alcohol, period. One of the rudest things you can do is ask/expect your guests to open their wallets at a party you are hosting.
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  • Mrs. Spring
    Master April 2021
    Mrs. Spring ·
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    I do not think it's tacky but definitely know your guests' as far as if theyblike to drink or not
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  • Caytlyn
    Legend November 2019
    Caytlyn ·
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    I agree with PP that it would be better to have a dry wedding than to expect your guests to pay for anything at your wedding.
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  • Michelle
    Master April 2021
    Michelle ·
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    Things can definitely change in the next couple of months- hopefully that COVID vaccine will make things a whole lot easier! I would still check with the restaurant about opening a tab.
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  • Katie
    VIP August 2021
    Katie ·
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    I agree with everyone, you really don't want people to have to open their wallet at your wedding. I think since the majority of yous don't drink have a dry wedding. But if you want to have alcohol because of the few who will want to drink I think you should contact the restaurant and talk about you having a tab.
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  • J
    Master 0000
    Judith ·
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    If you open a tab, you become responsible for anything that may happen due to drinking. Off your non alcoholic wedding. If those at your wedding bring in a drink, from home or the restaurant, and there is no law against it, just overlook it. Serve what you plan to serve, which is no alcohol. Which is fine.
    If things change and they permit a bar in the park, you can leave it as is. Ig ore those who byo. But if you have them set up a bar in the park at your function, you pay.
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  • V
    Rockstar July 2019
    Veronica ·
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    Guests really shouldn't have to pay for anything at your wedding. They are already expected to travel to your wedding, possibly stay over night if they live out of town and buy a gift so they shouldn't be expected to buy their own drinks.
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  • T
    Super April 2021
    Tiger Bride ·
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    Also want to point out that this is a know your crowd kind of thing. In some places (I believe parts of the Midwest) this is common. In some places beer and wine is the norm, in others a full open bar. I am pretty sure I've been to weddings in the Northeast where beer and wine was provided and hard drinks were cash, but I don't remember.

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  • Florida Marlins
    Expert October 2017
    Florida Marlins ·
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    I am from the midwest and a cash bar or partially open bar is not too unusual, however open bars are common, too. I am not a drinker but my hubby does not care if he has to pay for a mixed drink. Bottom line: A cash bar or partially hosted bar is better than nothing. For the record, I have been married twice and both times were open bar so I am not trying to justify anything, lol!!!

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  • Vanessa
    Just Said Yes June 2021
    Vanessa ·
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    I think you need to follow the norms of where you are from and those you plan to invite. If a dry wedding is the norm, then I feel it is ok. Whatever you choose I would suggest telling people in advance so they know what to expect. Possibly out it on your FAQ on your wedding website. That is where I addressed some the "non-traditional" things I planned to do at my wedding.

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  • Michelle
    Rockstar December 2022
    Michelle ·
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    Provide drinks that no guest has to pay for themselves within your budget. If your guests don't drink, then it doesn't sense to serve alcohol in the first place. Asking your guests to fund your party is impolite, regional or not. There are stories of parties being cut short because of it. Be a good polite host and offer what you can afford and don't offer what you can't.
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