The Ultimate Wedding Alcohol Calculator Guide

One of the biggest anxieties for any couple is the fear of running out of alcohol. It’s a valid concern—a dry wedding is often a short wedding. But buying way too much is a quick way to blow your budget.

Using a data-driven approach removes the guesswork. Let's break down the factors that change the math.

Step 1: Know Your Ratios

Not all crowds drink the same. A younger crowd might drink more beer and liquor, while an older crowd might prefer wine. Here are the three standard profiles we use:

Step 2: The "Safe Bet" Buffer

We strongly recommend adding a 20% buffer to your final numbers. Why? Because Uncle Bob might really like the Chardonnay, or the weather might be hotter than expected (leading to more beer/soda consumption).

Most liquor stores allow you to return unopened bottles (check your local laws!). It is far better to return 5 bottles of vodka on Monday than to run out at 9 PM on Saturday.

Step 3: Glassware & Logistics

Alcohol is only half the battle. You need something to serve it in. A common mistake is not renting enough glassware.

• Standard rule: Rent 1.5 glasses per person per type of glass if washing on-site, or 3-4 glasses per person if no washing is available.
• Don't forget water: Hydrated guests are happy guests. Have a dedicated water station.