Calculate exactly how much to budget for wedding alcohol. Get real cost estimates based on your guest count and preferences.
TL;DR - Quick Budget Estimate
For 100 guests, budget $1,500-3,000 for a full bar or $900-1,500 for beer and wine only. That works out to $15-30 per person for a 4-hour reception. Use the calculator below for a personalized estimate.
Typical: 4-5 hours
Adjust for guests who won't drink alcohol
Adds 20% extra (recommended)
Detailed breakdown for 100 guests, 4-hour reception
| Category | Quantity | Budget | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wine (red + white) | 25-30 bottles | $250-400 | $500-900 |
| Beer | 8-10 cases | $200-300 | $350-500 |
| Liquor (vodka, whiskey, etc.) | 8-12 bottles | $200-350 | $400-800 |
| Champagne (toast) | 10-13 bottles | $150-200 | $400-600 |
| Mixers & garnishes | Assorted | $75-125 | $100-175 |
| Ice | 100-150 lbs | $25-50 | $25-50 |
| Total Alcohol | 100 guests | $900-1,425 | $1,775-3,025 |
*Does not include bartender fees ($150-300) or glassware rentals
Smart strategies to cut costs without cutting quality
Costco, Sam's Club, and Total Wine offer significant discounts.
Mid-range spirits mixed in cocktails taste the same to most guests.
Many stores accept returns. Buy extra and return what you don't use.
Open bar for cocktail hour + dinner, then beer/wine only.
Planning a wedding in the UK? Alcohol costs and buying options differ from the US. Here is what to expect when budgeting for your UK wedding bar.
| Category | UK Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beer (per bottle/can) | £1-2 | Supermarket multipack deals available |
| Wine (per bottle) | £5-8 | Case discounts at Majestic Wine |
| Spirits (per 70cl bottle) | £15-25 | Own-brand options from £12 |
| Prosecco (per bottle) | £6-12 | More popular than champagne at UK weddings |
| Total for 100 guests | £800-2,000 | Depending on quality and bar style |
For 100 guests at a 4-hour reception, expect to spend $1,000-$2,500 for a DIY bar with beer, wine, and basic liquor. This breaks down to roughly $10-25 per person. Premium selections can push this to $3,000-$4,500. Use our calculator above for an estimate tailored to your preferences.
The average couple spends $2,000-$3,500 on wedding alcohol for a 100-150 guest wedding. This represents about 8-10% of the total wedding budget. Costs vary widely based on location, selection, and whether you buy retail or go through a venue.
For a DIY open bar, budget $20-35 per person for a 4-hour reception with beer, wine, and liquor. A beer-and-wine-only bar runs $10-15 per person. Venue-provided open bars typically charge $50-100+ per person. Buying your own alcohol and hiring bartenders is usually the most affordable option.
Yes, significantly. Buying your own alcohol typically costs $15-25 per person versus $50-100+ per person at venue bars. The catch is not all venues allow outside alcohol, and you will need to handle logistics like ice, bartenders, and cleanup.
Limit the bar to beer and wine (saves 30-40%), buy in bulk at warehouse stores, choose a venue that allows outside alcohol, opt for domestic over imported, skip top-shelf liquor, and serve signature cocktails instead of a full bar.
Absolutely. Beer and wine only bars are a popular choice that costs about 40% less than a full open bar. Many guests prefer it. You can elevate the experience with a good wine selection and craft beer options. Add a signature cocktail for a personal touch without stocking a full bar.
For a premium open bar, budget $4-8 per guest specifically for spirits. Top-shelf bottles (Grey Goose, Maker's Mark, Patron) run $35-60 each versus $15-25 for mid-range. For 100 guests, premium spirits add $400-800 to your bar budget. Consider a compromise: premium vodka and whiskey (the most requested), but mid-range for rum, gin, and tequila.
Use our complete calculator for exact quantities, shopping lists, and more drink options.
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