When planning an event, one of the things that you need to determine is what type of bar you want to have. One option that is often popular is a cash bar. In a cash bar, guests are expected to pay for their drinks rather than having them provided for free. But what does a cash bar actually include? What can your guests expect to find when they step up to the bar?
Typical Beverages You’ll Find at a Cash Bar
One of the first things to consider is the types of beverages that are typically found at a cash bar. The exact drinks that are available will depend on the venue, but you can expect to find the following basic options:
Beer
Beer is a staple at almost any bar or event. The exact types of beer that are available will depend on the venue and the preferences of the organizers, but you can expect to find both domestic and imported options, as well as a variety of different styles such as IPAs, lagers, and stouts.
Wine
Wine is another popular option for a cash bar. Depending on the event, you may find both red and white wine, as well as options that are sweet, dry, or somewhere in between.
Liquor
Liquor is a broad category that includes a range of different spirits, such as rum, vodka, gin, tequila, and whiskey. At a cash bar, you can expect to find a variety of different liquor options, as well as mixers like soda, juice, and tonic water.
Cocktails
Cocktails are another popular choice at a cash bar. These drinks are typically made from a blend of different liquors and mixers, and can come in a variety of different flavors and styles. Some of the most popular cocktail options include margaritas, martinis, and daiquiris.
Other Factors to Consider with a Cash Bar
In addition to the types of drinks that are typically found at a cash bar, there are a few other factors to consider as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Pricing
One of the biggest things to consider with a cash bar is the pricing. Guests will be responsible for paying for their own drinks, so it’s important to set prices that are reasonable and fair. You’ll also want to consider whether you want to charge for each drink individually or sell drink tokens that guests can use at the cash bar.
Service
Another thing to consider is the level of service that you want to provide at the cash bar. Will there be one bartender or multiple bartenders serving guests? How will lines be managed and fair service be ensured? Make sure to have a clear plan in place to ensure everyone gets to enjoy the party.
Tipping
Finally, you’ll also want to consider the tips. While it’s not required, it’s common for guests to tip bartenders at a cash bar. Consider making a note of tipping on signage or making an announcement at the event so guests are aware of appropriate tipping behavior.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a cash bar is a great option for guests to enjoy a selection of drinks at an event. The types of beverages that are offered will depend on the venue, event, and budgets. When planning a cash bar for an event, it’s important to consider pricing, service, and tipping to ensure guests have an enjoyable and refreshing experience. Now that you know what a cash bar typically includes, you can start planning out the details for your next event.
FAQ
What is a cash bar at a party?
A cash bar is a type of bar where guests can purchase their drinks at a party or event. Unlike an open bar, where the host provides complimentary drinks, guests must pay for their own drinks at a cash bar. This type of bar is common at many events, including weddings, corporate parties, and charity fundraisers.
The cash bar is often set up in a separate area from the main party or event space, such as in an adjacent room or outside. This allows guests to take a break from the main festivities and enjoy a drink or two. The bar is typically staffed with bartenders who are trained to prepare a variety of popular and classic cocktails, as well as serve beer and wine.
When guests arrive at a party with a cash bar, they will usually be informed ahead of time that they will need to purchase their drinks. The price of the drinks will vary depending on the type of beverage and the level of service provided. For example, a mixed drink may be more expensive than a beer, and a top-shelf liquor may cost more than a well liquor. Some cash bars will also charge a service fee or gratuity, which is added on to the cost of the drinks.
While the idea of a cash bar may seem less generous than an open bar, it is actually a practical solution for many hosts and event planners. Cash bars allow hosts to control their event expenses and can often be more affordable than paying for an open bar. It also allows guests to choose their own drinks and pace their own consumption, which can help to prevent overindulgence and avoid any liability issues.
A cash bar is a common feature at many parties and events, and it provides guests with the opportunity to enjoy drinks while also giving hosts greater control over their event budget.
What is the difference between a cash bar and a host bar?
When organizing an event, one of the many choices to make is deciding whether to have a cash bar or a host bar. This decision will ultimately affect your guests’ experience, the event’s atmosphere, and your event’s budget.
Let’s start with a cash bar. A cash bar is a term used to describe a scenario in which guests are expected to pay for their own drinks. With this option, guests will have to pay each time they purchase a drink, and they can choose to open a tab or pay per drink. In this case, the cost of the drinks is the responsibility of the guest, not the event planner. This option may be more suitable when you are working with a tight budget, as the guests’ costs can be covered, and you won’t have to pay for a lump sum for the drinks beforehand.
On the other hand, a host bar, also known as an open bar, means that the event planner will be paying for the guests’ drinks. In this case, guests won’t have to pay for their drinks, as the cost will be included in your event package or paid for by a predetermined amount. This option may be more appealing to guests as they won’t have to worry about the additional cost of drinks, and the bartender(s) will be instructed not to charge guests for their drinks.
A host bar may be a more practical option for certain types of events, such as company socials or weddings, where guests are expected to mingle, socialize, and enjoy drinks without the burden of paying every time they order a drink. Additionally, with a host bar, guests may be encouraged to try different types of drinks that they normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to try.
The primary difference between a cash bar and a host bar is who pays for the drinks. In a cash bar scenario, guests are required to pay for their drinks either upfront or at the end of the event, while in a host bar, the event planner covers the cost of the drinks. the choice between a cash bar and a host bar depends on the event’s budget and the desired atmosphere.
Why are cash bars tacky?
Cash bars at weddings or other events are often deemed as tacky by many people. This is because cash bars can put unexpected pressure on guests, which can make them feel uncomfortable. For instance, guests may not anticipate needing cash for drinks and singles for tips, especially if the event is advertised as an open bar. When guests are caught off guard, this could potentially lead to awkward situations where they may not have enough cash on hand to purchase a drink or tip the bartender, which can make them feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
Moreover, cash bars indicate that the host is not willing to provide a fully hospitable environment for their guests. Weddings and other events are meant to be a celebration, and guests are there to enjoy the festivities without worrying about unexpected expenses. When a host implements a cash bar, it sends a message that they are not willing to invest in their guests’ enjoyment of the event.
Another potential issue with cash bars is that they can slow down the flow of a party. Guests might spend time standing in line for drinks, counting out cash, and waiting for change to be returned. This can hinder the social aspect of an event and prevent guests from mingling and having a good time. In contrast, an open bar encourages guests to relax, socialize, and celebrate together, creating a more festive atmosphere.
Cash bars are considered tacky because they can surprise guests with unexpected expenses, indicate a lack of hospitality, and hinder the social aspect of an event. To ensure that guests enjoy a fully hospitable environment and can celebrate without worrying about unexpected expenses or social inhibition, an open bar is the most appropriate choice.
