Timing guide
Wedding drinks by event length
Estimate the hours when drinks are actually served, not just the venue hire period.
How event length, cocktail hour, dinner, and evening reception timing affect a wedding alcohol estimate.
Use bar service time
A five-hour reception estimate should represent the period when drinks are available. Setup, ceremony time, photos, and venue clear-down may not belong in the drinking-hours input.
- Count cocktail hour if drinks are served.
- Count dinner service if wine or beer is served at tables.
- Count evening bar time separately if the guest mix changes.
Different parts of the day can use different mixes
Welcome drinks, table wine, beer during dancing, and spirits at a staffed bar may not follow one simple percentage split. For detailed planning, run separate estimates or adjust the final shopping list with the venue.
- Plan toast drinks separately when needed.
- Ask whether table wine is part of the bar package.
- Check last-call and service-end rules.
Timing inputs
| Service period | Include in hours? | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail hour | Yes if bar is open | May use different drink mix. |
| Dinner wine | Maybe | Could be fixed table service. |
| Evening reception | Yes if drinks are served | Guest count may change. |
Follow local alcohol laws and venue rules. Do not use this to encourage overconsumption.
Worked examples
50 guests A starting bar estimate for 50 adult guests over a 5-hour reception. 75 guests A starting bar estimate for 75 adult guests over a 5-hour reception. 100 guests A starting bar estimate for 100 adult guests over a 5-hour reception. 150 guests A starting bar estimate for 150 adult guests over a 5-hour reception.