Bar Tab Calculator
Estimate the cost of an open bar, limited bar, or cash bar for your wedding reception based on guest count and drink preferences.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
Wedding bar costs typically range from $2,000-$15,000 depending on guest count and bar style. The average guest consumes about 1.5 drinks per hour at a reception.
The Formula
Bar Cost = (Drinking Guests x Per-Person Rate x Hours) + (Non-Drinkers x Soft Drink Rate x Hours) + (Bartenders x $200)
Variables
- Per-Person Rate — Hourly cost per drinking guest ($9-18 depending on bar type)
- Bartender Ratio — Industry standard is 1 bartender per 50 guests
Example
150 guests, 5 hours, standard open bar: 113 drinkers x $14 x 5 = $7,910 + $740 soft drinks + $600 bartenders = $9,250 total.
Tips
- Beer and wine only saves 30-40% over a full open bar
- Signature cocktails (2-3 options) are cheaper than a full bar
- Plan 1 bartender per 50 guests to avoid long lines
- Happy hour format (open bar for 2 hrs, then cash) cuts costs significantly