Family member as bartender?

I think it sounds like a bad idea. Even if she is a licensed bartender, she isn't going to want to work the whole night. She would likely miss stuff because she is busy behind the bar. I think she is offering without really realizing how much work it will be.

Agreed with Christine that her being a licensed bartender is super important. What if she only knows how to make a handful of drinks? Or, more importantly, doesn't know the right amount of liquor per drink and your guests get drunk too quickly?

If she is licensed, make sure she really knows what she is taking on. She will miss cocktail hour, probably part (if not all) of dinner, the entire reception because she will be behind the bar. If it were me, I would still hire a professional.

I would still hire someone. She will miss a lot. & if someone needs a drink and she wants to talk to other people. She can't.

She is licensed. I mentioned that to her as well that she would miss out on dancing and stuff and she suggested it maybe tag teaming it with one of her bartender friends.

No.

I would still say no... If her bartender friend wants to do for the night and she relieves him for an hour or so, then i would *maybe* consider it. I would want all family and friends enjoying themselves and not being resentful later because they worked the event

Don't do it! She isn't going to want to work the whole wedding and if anything went wrong or things didn't work out as planned, it could affect your relationship, which wouldn't be worth it. I would thank her for her offer but just tell her you'd like her to have fun with you on your day, not have her working.

Nope, bar tending means you cant focus on ANYTHING but the bar, prepping the bar, cleaning the bar, and restocking the bar.

From a former bartender.

A professional would know how much work it is.

Yeah, I think that's what I am going to do. I don't feel right about it. It's a nice offer, but I think I would rather hire someone so that it's done properly and she can still have fun. I'll see if she wants to be included in another way Thanks for the input!

I would hire someone! I'm not sure she realizes how busy she would be! Also you want her to be able to enjoy your wedding and share in the celebration!

Nope. Family members as any sort of vendor for a wedding is a bad idea. Nope. No. All my nopes.

And also that means she couldn't drink- just tell her that's your main reason, you want her to enjoy the day

Thanks ladies, will do. I definitely do want her to be able to enjoy the day!