Pre-Wedding Event

Rehearsal Dinner Alcohol Calculator

Plan the perfect drinks for your rehearsal dinner. Calculate wine, beer, and cocktails for an intimate celebration the night before your big day.

Calculate Rehearsal Dinner Drinks
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Rehearsal Dinner Quick Facts

20-50
Typical guest count
2-3
Hours duration
2-3
Drinks per guest
$150-400
Typical alcohol budget

How It Works

1. Enter Guest Count

Wedding party, close family, and out-of-town guests

2. Set Duration

Most rehearsal dinners are 2-3 hours

3. Get Your List

Wine bottles, beer, and optional cocktails

Rehearsal Dinner Quick Reference

Beer and wine estimates for 2-3 hour rehearsal dinners

20
Guests
Wine8-10 bottles
Beer1 case
Est. cost: $100-200
30
Guests
Wine12-15 bottles
Beer1-2 cases
Most common size
50
Guests
Wine18-22 bottles
Beer2 cases
Est. cost: $250-450

These estimates assume lighter drinking (night before wedding). Use our full calculator for personalized quantities.

Rehearsal Dinner Bar Options

Beer & Wine

$5-12
per guest
  • Most popular choice
  • Easy to manage
  • Pairs well with dinner
RECOMMENDED

Wine with Dinner

$4-8
per guest
  • Most budget-friendly
  • Elegant and simple
  • Red and white options

Signature Cocktail

$8-15
per guest
  • Personal touch
  • Preview of wedding
  • Add beer & wine too

Rehearsal Dinner Drink Tips

Keep It Light

  • Guests drink less the night before a wedding
  • Plan for 2-3 drinks per person (vs 4-5 at reception)
  • End the bar 30 minutes before dinner ends
  • No one wants a hungover wedding party

Save Money

  • BYOB restaurants can save 50%+ on alcohol
  • Buy wine by the case for 10-20% discount
  • Skip hard liquor - beer and wine is expected
  • Host at home or family property if possible

Frequently Asked Questions

How much alcohol do I need for a rehearsal dinner?

For a typical 2-3 hour rehearsal dinner with 30 guests, plan for about 60-90 drinks total. That translates to roughly 12-15 bottles of wine, 1-2 cases of beer, or a combination. Since it is the night before the wedding, most guests drink moderately.

Should I provide alcohol at my rehearsal dinner?

Yes, if you are hosting a dinner, etiquette suggests providing drinks for your guests. However, you can control costs by offering beer and wine only, limiting to 1-2 drinks per person, or choosing a restaurant that allows you to bring your own wine.

What type of alcohol is best for a rehearsal dinner?

Beer and wine is the most popular choice for rehearsal dinners. It is cost-effective, easy to manage, and most guests prefer lighter drinking the night before a wedding. If you want cocktails, consider a signature drink or limited selection.

How long should I plan for drinks at a rehearsal dinner?

Most rehearsal dinners last 2-3 hours. Plan for 1-2 drinks during a cocktail/mingling period, then 1-2 glasses of wine with dinner. Unlike wedding receptions, guests typically do not drink heavily the night before.

Can I do BYOB for my rehearsal dinner?

Yes, especially for casual venues like backyard BBQs or restaurants that allow outside alcohol. This can significantly reduce costs. Just check venue policies and consider providing some base alcohol for guests who arrive empty-handed.

How much does alcohol cost for a rehearsal dinner?

For a 30-person rehearsal dinner with beer and wine, expect to spend $150-400 depending on quality. Restaurant consumption bars typically run $15-30 per person. BYOB or home-hosted events can cost as little as $100-200.

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