Barn at Bradstreet Farm
  • Home
  • Gallery
  • FAQ
  • History
  • Team
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • For Event Guests
  • Public Events
Blog

Beer & Wine vs. Full Bar for Your New England Wedding: How to Decide

3/15/2025

1 Comment

 
new england wedding, barn wedding, rustic barn, champagne, prosecco
Choosing between beer and wine or a full bar is a key decision for your wedding. It impacts your budget and the overall vibe. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both to help you decide.

Beer & Wine Only: The Elegant, Budget-Friendly Option

Offering only beer and wine is a simple, budget-friendly choice. Here’s why:

Pros of Beer & Wine Only:
1.     Cost Savings
Beer and wine are less expensive than stocking a full bar. You may also find venues with cheaper packages for beer and wine, and some may even allow you to bring your own.
2.     Simplicity and Elegance
A beer-and-wine-only reception adds elegance. A thoughtful wine selection, like a red, white, and sparkling option, can provide sophistication. You can also highlight local or craft beers.
3.     Fewer Decisions
With fewer drink choices, planning is easier. You can focus on curating a few special options rather than choosing from a wide range of liquors.
4.     Food Pairing
Beer and wine pair well with meals, allowing you to enhance the dining experience by matching drinks with the menu.
5.     Less Risk of Overindulgence
Limiting the bar to beer and wine may reduce the risk of overindulgence, helping keep the event fun but relaxed.

Cons of Beer & Wine Only:
1.     Limited Options
Some guests may prefer hard liquor or cocktails, and offering only beer and wine could disappoint those who enjoy mixed drinks.
2.     No Signature Cocktails
If you wanted a signature cocktail that reflects your personality or relationship, a beer-and-wine-only bar won’t allow for that personal touch.
3.     Fewer “Wow” Factor Opportunities
A full bar can add glamour and excitement, while a limited selection may lack the same impact.

Full Bar: The Ultimate in Drink Variety

A full bar offers more variety, with beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails. Here’s a breakdown:

Pros of a Full Bar:
1.     Variety for All Tastes
A full bar accommodates everyone, from cocktail lovers to those who prefer beer or wine. It allows you to offer mocktails and a wider range of non-alcoholic drinks too.
2.     Signature Cocktails
A full bar gives you the opportunity to serve signature cocktails, adding a personal touch and giving guests something unique to enjoy.
3.     “Wow” Factor
Guests are often impressed by a fully stocked bar, which can create excitement and elevate the atmosphere of your reception.
4.     Ideal for Large Weddings
Larger groups with varied tastes will appreciate the options provided by a full bar, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Cons of a Full Bar:
1.     Higher Costs
A full bar is more expensive due to the cost of spirits and mixers. Bartender fees may also be higher, and stocking a wide range of liquors can quickly add up.
2.     Risk of Overindulgence
With more options available, some guests may overindulge. You’ll need to consider ways to manage this, like drink tickets or cutting off alcohol at a certain time.
3.     Complexity of Setup and Service
Managing a full bar requires more staff and equipment. This can increase costs and complexity, making setup more stressful.

How to Decide

Consider these questions when making your decision:
  1. What’s your budget? Beer and wine are more cost-effective if you’re on a budget.
  2. How important is variety? If your guests have varied tastes, a full bar offers more options.
  3. What atmosphere do you want? A beer-and-wine-only bar creates a laid-back vibe, while a full bar adds sophistication.
  4. How big is your guest list? Larger weddings may benefit from a full bar, while smaller events might suit a simpler option.
Whichever option you choose, the goal is to ensure your guests have a great time that fits your wedding style.
__
Special thanks for all the locally owned wedding and event venues across the country who inspire us daily including:
Harris Glen
Butler’s Courtyard
The Hidden Abby
The 1860 Schulhaus
The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch
1 Comment

    Archives

    May 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    June 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    April 2020
    December 2019
    June 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019

    Categories

    All

    RSS Feed

[email protected]
239 Main Street Rowley, MA 01969
877-BRADSTREET (877-272-3787)
The Barn at Bradstreet Farm is private property ! So please make an appointment for a tour - please do not just drop in.
​
We want to be ready for you.! Please email [email protected] to set up an appointment - thank you!
Picture
© COPYRIGHT 2023  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. - Privacy Policy - Terms & Conditions
  • Home
  • Gallery
  • FAQ
  • History
  • Team
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • For Event Guests
  • Public Events