Where/How to find a bartender.

We're getting a bartender through our caterer, they do not provide us alcohol but they do provide us the bartender and all mixers (soda, juice, etc) ... do you have a caterer yet? Maybe they can provide one for you?

Ah... missed the part where you said the venue caters... have you asked them if they could provide you with a bartender so long as you provide the alcohol?

They can't the venue is a farm.

Start networking with friends and family! My niece used to work at the Texas Roadhouse and her best friend is a bartender... we hired her for $100.00 (it's an open bar but there will be a tip jar) - Same with our photographer and food runner... (not the same price) but network and ask friend if they have friends that do the jobs you need filled

Good luck!

If required in your area, make sure bartender is licensed and insured.

Do you frequent a local bar? I would go down to see your favorite bartender. Just make sure he/she gets insurance, or see if your venue provides it. I get asked to do weddings often and I love it! Allow him/her to have a tip jar, but also pay them a flat rate.

Contact your local VFW or American Legion hall. That is who I used for my wedding. Good Luck.

Asking your favorite bartender is an attractive idea but you might run into some licensing, insurance or liability issues. I like Crystal's suggestion of contacting a local bartending school if there is one. It also might be a good idea to inquire with independent caterers or, as Amy B suggests, google private bar-tenders and then carefully check out references.

You won't run into those issues if you get insurance and check with your venue and caterer. Like I said, I bartend weddings often.

I am in the exact same boat as you! Getting married at a privately owned garden venue which allows you to bring in my own alcohol. My catering company will not let me hire their bartender unless they provide alcohol so I have to find my own bartenders.

I'm having about 100 guests too and I've been told that for that many ppl, you should have 2 bartenders.

Thanks girls.