Luncheon Reception/Cash Bar

I don't think the bar tab will run too high esp. if not everyone is drinking. We are doing something very similar (<25 people for lunch at a local restaurant) and getting white and red wine for all the tables. Most will probably drink that since it's already in front of them, but we'll pay for other drinks if they want it. They also probably won't drink as much at a lunch as opposed to dinner.

You need to pay for it all.

Don't have a cash bar. Ever.

Cover your guests food and drink choices.

We are having the epitome of a casual reception, but are still managing to pay for food to be catered and alcohol to be served. Your guests are your guests, as they have been invited and should not have to pay for anything, including their choice of drinks. Depending on the restaurant, the beers may be cheaper then the sweet tea (always kills me at Applebee's), so money isn't the issue. It's your being picky about other people's choices. Stop that. Pay the tab for everything or don't invite as many people, especially ones that you judge for wanting a beer with a meal to celebrate "your" day.

It won't be much to pay. You can even buy a certain number of bottles and have it on the table or have it available to those who drink. You can still somewhat "control" the price, but still have it available.

Yep, casual or fancy, you have invited these people to a reception and you should pay for all of it.

Since you said there are only a few people who drink, it wouldn't be that expensive to just pay for it yourself.

Very tacky. Cut back on the guest list or unnecessary things and properly host your guests with an open bar option. Even if it's just beer and wine.

For such a small event, if most people don't drink, it doesn't matter if you do or not, you need to provide for your guests that would like to. It's extremely rude to make them pay.

Yes it would be tacky. To do a cash bar and to write it on the invitation are both tacky.