How many Bartenders? And how long?

I have thrown a lot of parties for work and if you are having 200 hundred guest drinking for 8 hours you also have to think about breaks. Will these be the same two bartenders the whole day? If that is the plan then I would go with three that way if one has to go to the bathroom or eat then the bar does not get backed up and get the othe bartender angry. It also allows you to possibly set up to sides of the bar to the lines are not as long. As for the beer are you having cocktail servers at your wedding for dinner/apps etc?? If so you could always have them bring your guests the beer. I also don't see a problem if you have some nice steel or oak barrels (I don't know your theme is) set up right next to the bar with ice and beer so your guests can just grab one and go. I think that you could have napkins there just to give it that extra touch. I think that you can still have it classy without going trashy. :-) Hope that helps! Good luck.

PS Looooove the Sox hat!

I am having my reception at a golf course for about 175 people and we will have 2 bartenders the whole time. I would say that is plenty. As far as having friends help themselves I dont see anything wrong with that but you might want to take keys or designate a driver so your parents will not be held responsible if something happens. I agree with Jaemi on the ice and beer! Have fun and good luck

I am not sure where you live, but you will definetly need to look into getting a liquor license if you are serving all of those people. And a noise permit, and possibly parking attendants. Virginia is very strick about serving alchol so your state might be too!

I always suggest 2 bartenders per every 100-150 guest. You def. need a min. of 3 and you may want to check with state regulations.

Also do you think you will have guest there until 10PM? I'm thinking if your event starts at 2 you could easily cut the bartenders at 8, I say this because must guest don't stay at events for more than 4 hours, also if they do stay til 10 it gives them some time to sobber up. Remember you and the bartenders are responsible for each guest.

How many bartenders to guest #'s also depends on what is being served at the bar. Mixed drinks w/ 200 guests may require 3 bartenders. Tap beer vs bottles takes a bit longer to serve. Margarita machines require changeovers, etc. Talk w/ a professional service to get their opinion for adequate tenders. We NEVER allow guests to self-serve and I wouldn't do it for a home wedding either, people don't always control themselves and you/parents are risking a lawsuit if a problem arises. ** (1) consider a one-time insurance rider added to your parent's homeowner policy for liquor liability coverage. Having certified bartenders manning the bar shows good intent, especially if regulations are followed. (2) consider posting a sign "If you drink Please don't drive w/ a local cab company # listed