I wanted to make a sign to put on the bar to let people know that it was open bar for the first hour beer and wine only and then cash bar after. I will write what I put on the sign I designed and would love it if you guys could let me know if it is appropriate or not and if not another way to word it. Thank you in advance!
During Cocktail Hour
Open Bar
Beer and Wine only
cocktails may be purchased
cash bar following cocktail hour
Re: appropriate wording for first hour open bar only
Where I'm from open bar for an hour is the norm. I've only been to two weddings that were open bar and both had less than 100 people. Nobody has ever put a sign up, but the bartenders just let the guests know at the time they go up for drinks and the parents of the couple will let the guests know as well.
I don't see anything wrong with it, but I'm also not a stickler or etiquette. I know my family wouldn't care.
Just because you saw it on Four Weddings, doesn't mean it's a good idea.
[QUOTE] I would have your sign say something along the lines of Cocktail Hour : Complimentary Beer and Wine
Posted by lbarr088[/QUOTE]
<div>This. Saying "open bar" implies liquor is included, so saying "complimentary beer and wine" is more like saying "cash bar with free beer and wine" which is what it is. I would also definitely make it clear beforehand that it's a cash bar. Most people don't bring more than some singles to tip the bartenders, so unless your venue has a free ATM on-site, you should let them know ahead of time.
I don't think it's rude or tacky to have a free hour and then "take it away." It's better than nothing at least. I've been to a dry wedding before where I would have paid $10 for a shot of toilet whiskey (yeah, it was that awkward [for reasons that alcohol may not have helped]), so I think a cash bar is better than none at all and a free hour is better than cash all night. Just tell people ahead of time, they'll appreciate it :0)</div>
[QUOTE]I think it is fine. Honestly, I think it would be rude for guests to complain and think it is tacky when there is an option for free alcohol at all. It isn't a tease IMO. I would have your sign say something along the lines of Cocktail Hour : Complimentary Beer and Wine Guests can ask about cocktails if they would like. From what i mentioned I would assume that cocktails were not part of the "free" beverages. You can also mention that the rest of the reception is cash, however it might be implied from the sign for the cocktail hour.
Posted by lbarr088[/QUOTE]<div>
</div><div>I agree with this. As long as I'm warned ahead of time of the circumstances and I can come prepared with cash, I'll be fine.
</div>
Ultimately, you make the right choice for you; I'm just offering that people might smile and nod and be okay with it to your face and grumble all night. I've been to weddings with beer and wine unlimited all night, cash everything else, and people COMPLAINED A LOT at the tables because lots of people don't like either. I love wine, so I was set, but my stepmother, aunt, uncle... all cranky because the wedding was waaaaaaay out of town for us all=$$$$$$ gas money and time and we wanted to unwind.
Also: I can't eat a lot once I start drinking, so having all the booze before dinner etc. would mean someone like me would have a single glass of wine maybe? Most people don't really start drinking til after dinner...
If you can find the space to fund beer and wine for even a couple of hours, try and do so. You'll have happier people.
So long-winded, but I had to play devil's advocate and give you the flipside to consider (and reject if you wish!)
As for the sign, put the info on your wedding website in advance, and let the bartenders handle it, or a simple "Beer and wine unlimited until Xpm" Keep it brief and less confusing.
Planning Bio
However where I come from $2 drinks or toonie (our $2 coin) is the norm with either wine on the tables or passed wine.
HOWEVER, if it were only $2 more a person we would do an open bar in a HEARTBEAT without thinking. Drinks here are $6/person so even though we are having the toonie bar FI and I are still paying $4 on every drink (not person) which could add up to THOUSANDS of dollars