Open bar vs. Beer/wine for cocktail reception

This is my horderves menu in case that makes a difference:

Warm Artichoke and Spinach Dip, Baked Brie in Puff Pastry with Fig and Cranberry Relish

Assortment of Crackers and Baguette

Overflowing Basket of Strawberries, Red and Green Grapes

Basket of Cut Vegetables

Vegetarian Spring Rolls (Chilled Not Fried)

Grilled Mushrooms with Roasted Garlic Aioli

Mini Chicken Flautas with Monterey Jack Cheese and Cheddar Cheese Salsa Fresca

Crispy Hamachi “Yellowtail” Rolls Chili Lime Sauce

Rincon Roll Ponzu Marinated Tuna and Spicy Crab with Avocado and Cucumber

Served with Pickled Ginger, Wasabi , Ponzu and Soy Sauce

Grilled Mini Veggie Burgers on Brioche with Cheddar Cheese and Grilled Onions

Seasoned Sweet Potato Fries with Regular Ketchup

Cedar Plank Ranch Salmon with Ginger Mustard and Brown Sugar Glaze Warm

In this instance, with the type of party you are having, I think you should do an open bar. That doesn't mean you can't select some of the drinks, like local wines or beers, or even provide a signature cocktail.

What about seeing if the bar service could do a "signature cocktail"? could be fun to do something tasty that goes with your theme. That said - I think you're totally fine only offering beer and wine. It's free booze - who would complain?!

@ analy but will this be a large extra expense? Is there a huge difference?

I agree with Analy. We were going to do just beer and wine with the champagne toast. We ended up adding an open bar and it worked out really great.

You will have to ask the venue. If you are already planning to provide alcohol, I wouldn't think so. Usually, there is a per person charge for a certain number of hours. Since it seems as though your reception will be fairly short, it shouldn't be much more. You can also choose the type of liquor used, and quality. You will just have to get a quote.

It just depends on your venue. The one I am looking into has beer for $3.25 a bottle (yes, they go by how many are used, not just charging a set amount to have it in the first place). Wine is at least $26 per bottle (up to $45/ bottle). And then to get the open bar it is $6.25 per drink. Thats a big difference between the beer and the liquor. But I'm not having alcohol anyways. Just quoting what is on my menu sheet.

I think it would be nice if you can afford it however I don't think its a must, I like the idea of a signature drink , you could offer one or two signature drinks it will help to keep it within you budget because you decide ahead of time exactly what ur buying. No surprises at the end of the night. If you choose to go with a completely open bar the price difference will depend on what types of alcohol and quality they use.. top shelf premium vs well liquors...

Our wines are about $26/bottle ($6.5/glass), beer is $5-$6/bottle, and well/premuims are $7/$8...I' Im thinking if you are not drinking a beer or wine, then you are having a cocktail..but not usually both at the same time….Do you think my theory holds true?

our venue only has alcohol based on consumption