Planning a wedding in the Windy City? One of the most important (and fun!) aspects of your big day is the bar. With countless options available, understanding the right open bar package Chicago wedding can make the difference between an unforgettable celebration and one that leaves guests underwhelmed. Let’s explore everything you need to know to choose the perfect bar experience—without the stress.
What Is an Open Bar Package?
Usually, an open bar package gives patrons unlimited drinks for a predetermined amount of time. These containers frequently contain non-alcoholic beverages, wine, beer, and spirits. They can be tailored to your theme, the tastes of your guests, and your budget, depending on the provider.
Open bar packages are particularly well-liked for weddings in Chicago since they
- Improve the visitor experience
- Simplify the logistics
- Provide fixed prices.
- Get rid with uncomfortable bar cash exchanges.
Why It Matters for Your Chicago Wedding
Chicago’s vibrant event scene and strict liquor licensing laws make it essential to choose a vendor that is compliant, professional, and experienced. Open bar packages not only simplify planning but ensure your wedding meets legal requirements and exceeds guest expectations.
Types of Open Bar Packages in Chicago
1. Regular Open Bar
includes well liquors, wine, and basic lager. Ideal for shorter receptions or couples on a tight budget.
2. High-end Open Bar
offers craft beers, a wider selection of wines, and premium brands. Perfect for people seeking a high-end experience.
3. Speciality Cocktail Lounges
Serve two or three of the mixologists’ specially chosen signature cocktails. These bars are ideal for creative couples and themed weddings.
4. Host Bar for Consumption
You pay according to how much each guest drinks, rather than having unlimited drinks. If your guests don’t drink much or you want to keep expenses under stricter control, this might work.
5. Dry Bar with Mocktails
A rising trend for health-conscious couples or cultural preferences. Chicago’s best vendors now offer creative, alcohol-free bar packages with stylish flair.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Package
1. Number of Visitors
The kind and quantity of alcohol you’ll need depends on the size of your guest list. Since most packages are priced by person, knowing your headcount in advance aids in efficient budgeting.
2. Venue Conditions
Some Chicago venues need your bar service to have liability insurance and a liquor licence. Make careful to check these specifics with your barman and the venue.
3. Length of Event
How many service hours are covered? The majority of open bar packages last four to six hours. Verify the clarity of the overtime charges.
4. Selection of Drinks
Enquire about seasonal alternatives, brands, and whether you can add unique elements like a champagne toast or custom cocktails.
5. Setup and Staffing
Verify the number of bartenders that will be present. Generally speaking, there should be one barman for every 50 people. Make sure to include glassware, mixers, setup, and cleaning.
6. Transparency and Budget
Seek out suppliers who provide clear, detailed pricing. Always read the fine print of your contract to avoid any surprises.
Sample Pricing for Chicago Open Bar Packages (2024)
Note: Costs differ according to package type, date, and vendor.
- Normal Open Bar: $18 to $30 per person
- $35 to $50 per person for a premium open bar
- Add-on Signature Cocktails: $5–$10 per person
- +$3–$5 per person for a champagne toast
Additional Service Hours: $150–$300 based on the number of guests
Tips for Getting the Best Value
Plan Ahead: Chicago’s busiest wedding season, which runs from May to October, fills up quickly.
Bundle Services: When bar and catering services are combined, certain businesses, such as Chicago Bartending and Catering Company, provide a discount.
Know Your Crowd: An open bar is frequently less expensive than a cash bar if you’re hosting a large gathering of drinkers.
Customise Carefully: Instead of upgrading every spirit, add a few speciality beverages.
Request Tastings: To gauge the calibre of the drinks and the professionalism of the staff, ask for tastings, which some suppliers give, or schedule meetings.
Questions to Ask Your Bar Service Provider
- Are you licensed and insured in the state of Illinois?
- What brands are included in your open bar packages?
- Do you offer mocktail options or non-alcoholic packages?
- Can you staff multiple bartenders for a large wedding?
- How is gratuity handled?
- Is setup and cleanup included?
Why Choose The Chicago Bartending and Catering Company?
As a full-service beverage caterer, we take great satisfaction in ensuring that your wedding bar experience is seamless and unforgettable. With our licensed bartenders, exquisite settings, customisable drink menus, and connections with the best venues in Chicago, we relieve your stress so you can enjoy a glass with your loved ones.
Final Pour: Make Your Wedding Unforgettable
Selecting the ideal open bar package for your wedding in Chicago doesn’t have to be difficult. You can make sure your celebration is stress-free, elegant, and seamless with careful planning, honest communication, and the perfect provider.
Start by scheduling a consultation with Chicago Bartending and Catering Company right now to raise the bar on your special day!
