So we've hit the first snag with our catere, who has otherwise had totally reasonable prices. Even before the 20% service charge, a 5 hour open bar will cost close to $9,000 (or about $60 per person). With the 20%, it's more like $70 per person and over 10k. Is this normal?
I remember talking with other venues when we were looking, and most of them had open bar offerings closer to the 50 per person range. I'm just really disappointed because while my FI's family has graciously offered to host the bar, I really think they were planning on more in the $50pp range.
UGH! I am hoping there may be another vendor we can bring in or perhaps the caterer can work with us a bit on the costs.
I know we don't "need" an open bar beyond perhaps the cocktial hour, but about 80% of our guests will be traveling to get to our wedding, many by plane, and I really don't want to have to ask people to pay for drinks when they are already bearing the expense of traveling and hotel costs, rental cars, etc. I just feel disappointed.