Cheers!

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When planning a wedding or party food and beverage is always a very important part of the equation. It is also a major expenditure in your budget. One way to save is to provide your own alcohol, but first make sure that your venue allows this and there are no additional fees associated with bringing in your own liquor. Next make sure your bar is fully covered and that you have all of the supplies you need, such as a bartender who is properly equipped with (shakers, ice tongs) and you have proper glasses (martini, wine, champagne, high-ball), which your caterer can provide at a rental rate. Most importantly you want to make sure that you have enough liquor. According to “The Knot Book of Wedding Lists” by Carley Roney you should have the following amount of alcohol for a standard open bar, per 100 guests for a four hour reception.

Champagne: 18 bottles
Red wine: 10 bottles
White wine: 18 bottles
Beer: 2-3 cases
Whiskey: 1-2 liters
Bourbon: 1-2 liters
Gin: 1-2 liters
Scotch: 3 liters
Rum: 2 liters
Vodka: 6 liters
Tequila: 1 liter
Dry vermouth: 2 bottles
Sweet vermouth: 2 bottles
Tonic: 1 case
Club soda: 1 case
Cranberry juice: 2 gallons
Orange juice: 1 gallon
Grapefruit juice: 1 gallon

If you are getting ready to host a party Real Simple has great food and beverage calculators to help you determine how much food and liquor to buy and prepare.

Wedding Wine and Liquor Calculator
Click here

Party Food and Beverage Calculator
Click here