I am getting married in Maryland next Fall and we have to purchase our own alcohol for the reception. The caterers can serve it, they are just not allowed to purchase it. I am curious if anyone knows what the legalities or liabilities are when we purchase the alcohol but someone else serves it. I asked my Maryland based caterer about it and their response was:
"We will control consumption with a last call an hour prior to your events end and if anyone is intoxicated to the point that they can’t drive and doesn’t have a designated driver either we or the day of person from the venue can call a taxi for them."
I am just wondering if this cover us legally or liability-wise. I am considering getting a shuttle to take people to and from the hotel and venue, but that would only help those staying at the hotel. I will also have a number of people local to the area that will be driving themselves. So I am unsure whether to get a shuttle or not.
I am not asking for legal advice. I just want to see if other brides have thought or dealt with this issue. Any feedback is appreciated.
Thanks!
Lisa