When it comes to hosting an event or gathering, catering services are a must. While food is certainly important, beverages are just as crucial in making sure your guests are well taken care of. One option to consider is a catering cash bar, which can provide a wide range of beverage choices for your guests while also allowing you to manage your costs.
What is a Catering Cash Bar?
A catering cash bar is a service that allows guests to purchase their own drinks during an event. The host of the event can provide the bar with a certain amount of money upfront to cover costs, and then guests can purchase drinks using cash or credit card.
One of the main advantages of a catering cash bar is that it allows hosts to offer a variety of beverages without having to cover the full cost themselves. This can be especially helpful for larger events or those with a tight budget.
Types of Catering Cash Bars
There are several types of catering cash bars to consider, depending on the size of your event and the types of beverages you’d like to offer. Here are a few popular options:
- Full-Service Cash Bar – A full-service cash bar is the most comprehensive option, providing guests with access to a wide range of beer, wine, and liquor options. This type of bar typically requires more staffing and setup, but it can be a great option for larger events.
- Beer and Wine Bar – If you’d like to offer a simpler selection of beverages, a beer and wine bar may be the way to go. This type of bar typically requires less staffing and setup than a full-service cash bar, and it’s a great option for events with a more casual vibe.
- Specialty Bar – Finally, you may want to consider a specialty bar that focuses on a particular type of beverage, such as a craft beer bar, a margarita bar, or a whiskey tasting bar. This type of bar can add a unique touch to your event and cater to specific tastes.
Setting Up a Catering Cash Bar
If you’ve decided that a catering cash bar is the right option for your event, there are a few things to keep in mind as you set it up. Here are some tips to ensure a successful experience for you and your guests:
- Hire Experienced Bartenders – The quality of your bar service will largely depend on the experience and expertise of the bartenders you hire. Be sure to choose bartenders with a track record of providing excellent service and managing a busy bar.
- Determine Your Budget – Before you set up your bar, you’ll need to determine how much money you want to allocate to the bar service. Consider the size of your event, the types of beverages you want to offer, and the prices you’d like to charge for each drink.
- Choose Your Bar Setup – Depending on the type of bar you’ve chosen, you’ll need to determine the appropriate setup. Will you need a large bar structure, or will a simple table suffice? Will you provide glasses or plastic cups? These are all details to consider.
- Communicate Clearly with Guests – Finally, it’s important to communicate clearly with your guests about the cash bar service. Make sure they understand how the bar works and what types of beverages are available. You may also want to consider providing signage to help guests navigate the bar area.
Benefits of a Catering Cash Bar
There are many benefits to choosing a catering cash bar for your event. Here are just a few:
- Cost Savings – A catering cash bar can be a cost-effective option for events, as the host does not have to cover the full cost of beverages.
- Flexibility – With a catering cash bar, guests can choose which beverages they’d like to purchase
In conclusion, any event can have a cash bar and benefit of an extra revenue made from selling drinks.