Open v. Limited Bar?

If they're paying and it's a big deal for them, I guess I'd have to do the open bar. I could totally see how you'd be afraid of people getting too wasted though, especially if they aren't dancing off the alcohol. Our venue INSISTS that the bar close ONE HOUR prior to the end of the wedding, so maybe you could do open bar but have the same rule? That way they probably won't get too smashed in a two hour period, and will all be (hopefully) sobered up by the night's end? The bartender also is going to cut anyone off who looks too drunk, so yours probably would too!

I've been to weddings with open bars and weddings with unlimited beer/wind ( which is what we are doing). Both types of events were equally lovely.

If they're paying, I would just let them do what they want- it may be a pick your battles situation. Your guests actions are not in your control.

No pay = No say.

If you're accepting their money, you accept it with strings attached.

I hope people are respectful enough of you to control themselves over the course of 3 hours. The meal will help.

I say they are paying they have the say. Plus whats to stop someone from just getting someone elses drinks. Like when people do tickets, those who don't drink will just give their tickets to other people. I also agree they are adults. Plus at this point there is no dancing so what else are people gonna do to pass time other than drink?

I'm debating this too!! My family gets rather angry when they're drunk and having my divorced parents families there isn't making me too keen on any sort if alcohol at all!!! But I figure we'll buy a certain amount and when it's gone it's gone and they're welcome to go down to the liquor store if they feel they need more.

I agree that if they are paying, they have a say in it.

In any case, if someone is going to get tanked, then they are going to get tanked. You should have bartenders that cut people off when they are to drunk.

We are providing all the alcohol for the cocktail hour and the reception. It's an open bar serving mixed drinks but will not serve beer

I would love to do an open bar but simply can't afford it. We are doing unlimited beer, wine and pop. Bridal party gets unlimited champagne.

That really sucks that just because someone else is paying that you have no say! It's still YOUR wedding, is it not? You should have a say with how you want it to go.

I'd have issues with that.

Yeah I'm confused. So if you're parents are paying for your entire wedding, you have no day in it?? Not sure i agree with that. Maybe you can find a compromise. like beer, wine and 2 signature drinks?

If they want it and they are paying, I would let them have that. People will do what they do, man...

I think both types of bars are nice, but if it's really important to them and they're paying for it, let them have the open bar.

Your guests can still become very intoxicated off beer, wine, champagne, and two signature drinks even if there is NO open bar. If your parents are paying, let them and enjoy your wedding. Food will help the situation for sure.