The Ultimate Guide to Austin Wedding Bar Service
Planning a wedding in Austin or the Texas Hill Country? The bar service is one of the most important elements of your reception—it sets the tone, keeps guests happy, and creates memorable moments throughout the night.
At Party On Delivery, we help couples throughout Austin create exceptional wedding beverage experiences. This comprehensive guide covers everything from signature cocktails to full bar packages, helping you plan the perfect bar service for your special day.
Wedding Planning in Austin and Hill Country
Quick Timeline Weddings
Not everyone has a year to plan. If you're working with a shorter timeline, strategic planning makes all the difference. Book your venue and key vendors (including bar service) first, then fill in the details.
Venue Selection
The right venue impacts every aspect of your wedding, including bar service options. Some venues have exclusive catering partnerships, while others allow outside vendors.
Key considerations:
- Does the venue allow outside alcohol delivery?
- Are there preferred vendor lists?
- What's the venue's liquor license situation?
- Is there adequate bar setup space?
Vendor Coordination
Your bar service needs to coordinate with catering, venue, and rentals. A clear checklist keeps everything organized. Start by confirming your venue's requirements, then work backward to secure your vendors.
Bar Service Options
| Package Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Beer & Wine Only | $25-35/person | Budget-conscious, casual receptions |
| Standard Open Bar | $45-60/person | Traditional receptions |
| Premium Open Bar | $65-85/person | Upscale celebrations |
| Signature Cocktail Package | $55-75/person | Couples wanting personalization |
Signature Cocktails
Custom signature drinks are one of the best ways to personalize your reception. Consider cocktails that reflect your story, heritage, or favorite flavors.
Popular Austin wedding cocktails:
- Jalapeño Margaritas
- Peach Bourbon Smash
- Lavender Lemonade (mocktail option available)
- Texas Mule (with local spirits)
Budget Considerations
Saving Money Smartly
Your wedding bar doesn't have to break the bank. Strategic choices can reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
Budget tips:
- Consider beer and wine only during cocktail hour, full bar at reception
- Limit top-shelf options to signature drinks
- Use local Texas spirits (often less expensive than big brands)
- Skip the champagne toast or use a sparkling wine alternative
Intimate Celebrations
Smaller weddings and elopements have become increasingly popular. Intimate celebrations allow for premium experiences at lower overall costs. Consider a micro-wedding with 20-50 guests where you can splurge on top-shelf spirits and personalized service.
Wedding Décor and Atmosphere
Rustic Meets Modern
Texas weddings often blend rustic and modern elements. Your bar setup should complement your overall aesthetic. Consider:
- Whiskey barrel bars for rustic venues
- Sleek mobile bars for modern spaces
- Vintage glassware for eclectic celebrations
- Branded cocktail napkins for a personalized touch
Photography Locations
Beautiful backdrops enhance wedding photos. Austin and Hill Country offer stunning options at wineries, ranches, lakefront properties, and downtown rooftops. Consider your bar setup as a photo opportunity—a well-designed bar makes great content.
Related Events
Rehearsal Dinners
The rehearsal dinner sets the tone for the wedding weekend. Austin's restaurant scene offers incredible private dining options. Many restaurants allow you to bring your own wine with a corkage fee, which can save money on beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much alcohol do I need for my wedding?
A: A general rule is 1 drink per guest per hour. For a 4-hour reception with 100 guests, plan for approximately 400 drinks. This typically breaks down to about 40% beer, 30% wine, and 30% liquor for a full bar.
Q: Should I do open bar or cash bar?
A: In Texas, open bar is traditional and generally expected. Cash bars can feel unwelcoming to guests. If budget is a concern, consider a limited bar (beer, wine, and 2 signature cocktails) rather than a full cash bar.
Q: Can Party On Delivery supply alcohol for my wedding?
A: Yes! We can deliver all your wedding beverages—beer, wine, spirits, mixers, and more. Many couples use us in conjunction with their caterer's bartending services. We handle the product, they handle the service.
Q: What's the best way to handle underage guests?
A: Clearly mark alcoholic vs. non-alcoholic options. Create a mocktail menu that feels special (not just soda). Brief bartenders on checking IDs, especially for guests who look young.
Q: When should I book my wedding bar service?
A: Book your bar service provider 4-6 months before your wedding. Finalize your beverage selections and quantities 3-4 weeks out. For Party On Delivery orders, we recommend placing your order 2 weeks before with delivery scheduled for 1-2 days before the event.
Let Party On Delivery Handle Your Wedding Beverages
Focus on your big day while we handle the drinks. Party On Delivery offers premium alcohol delivery throughout Austin, perfect for:
- Stocking your welcome party
- Rehearsal dinner beverages
- Reception bar supplies
- After-party drinks
Shop wedding packages or contact us for custom orders.
This guide is part of our Austin Event Planning series. Explore our other comprehensive guides for bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, corporate events, and boat parties.
Allan Henslee
Founder & CEO of Party On Delivery, helping Austin celebrate in style since 2023.