Is it necessary to indicate that there is a cash bar and not open bar at reception?

Question

We are having a small private ceremony and an informal celebration afterwards for all our friends and family...trying to word invitations correctly

We are having a cash bar becuz we are the ones paying for our own wedding and reception, not using our parents.

How is this worded on invitations?

Answer 1

Yes. Usually an invitation might read: Date time where who, blah blah blah and at the bottom

There will be a cash bar from 6pm until 10pm
This lets people who might like to have a cocktail know to bring money. Also some provide a free keg to their guests while making hard liquor a pay as you go plan. Its really however you like.

Answer 2

While it is often necessary to find ways to cut costs, a cash bar is never a good choice. When you have a wedding, you're inviting people to a party, and they shouldn't have to pay for anything while they're there. Yes, it's true that when you have a bash in your apartment and invite all your pals, you say "BYOB," but it's not quite the same at a formal event. Better to try and save money on the alcohol itself -- and don't worry, there are a number of ways to do that.



Consider having a "limited" bar. Serve only soda, beer, and wine or have a champagne toast. Some couples have a signature cocktail, which cuts down on the different liquors and ingredients you'll be purchasing. Also, confirm whether you have to buy your alcohol from the place where the reception will be. You may have signed a contract that says so, but if not, it's generally much cheaper to buy your own liquor, wholesale -- you can get more for your money, and get what you want.

Good luck and Congrats!

Answer 3

I would never recommend a cash bar. Open bar generally charges at a set price per hour, regardless of how much each guest does or does not drink. If I were concerned about the drinking habits of my guests, however, I would probably opt for either champagne toast only or wine bottles on the table and when they're gone, that's it. You can also usually opt for beer, wine ,soft drinks only. That is a lower cost option that still allows for some drinking. I never understand people who think that cash bar will keep people from drinking to excess. It being there in itself will be enough to get some ot overindulge. After all, they didn't become alcoholics based on weddings with open bars after all. People who drink a lot have no problem paying for alcohol.

Answer 4

Of course it is, you would list it at the bottom left under the reception place and times.
However, just so you know, if many people were invited to a wedding and there were a cash bar, they would not be "impressed". It's a major tacky item. Hurrah that you are paying for the wedding yourselves, that's how it should be, but booze for an open bar actually doesn't cost that much in the larger scheme of things.
Actually, if you weren't close family, I wouldn't be going to the reception without there being an open bar, and I'm barely a drinker at all. It's just not done.

Answer 5

Most people don't bring money to a wedding unless that is their gift to the couple so if you don't mention that it's a cash bar then no one will be drinking and having a good time. Yes you need to include that a reception will follow the ceremony and include a cash bar and any food if your serving food.

Answer 6

It's usually not indicated on an invitation whether there is an open bar or cash bar. They're not coming to drink, they're coming to celebrate your marriage. Most people come prepared (with cash) if they plan to drink. Good Luck!

Answer 7

We are having the same issue, with a large family a cash bar will be out of our small budget. We have opted to go for a "loonie bar" (thats $1.00 canadian) per drink. This way we can cut some of our costs and it will cut down on people wasting drinks.

We are also saving money by cutting out some of the premium liquors and instead opting for a signature drink and some of the more common drinks.

Answer 8

I would mention it, and maybe see if you can get some drink tickets from the place for each guest, so they don't have to pay for it as much. Another good idea, maybe have a cash bar for mixed drinks etc... but maybe get a keg, or champagne or wine that is just there for guests that they can enjoy for free. Good question too, now i don't have to ask about it for my wedding lol
Good luck and congrats!

Answer 9

If you are planning of having a cash bar then you should mention this on the invitation as etiquette dictates. People need to be aware that they should bring some money to pay for their drinks. Usually with a cash bar then bride and groom make sure there is wine on the tables at least. Some people actually determine the amount of gift they are giving according to whether they have to pay for the drinks or not. To me that is plain tacky. Congratulations and I am sure that your day will be beautiful.

Answer 10

yes, if your tea, coffee and soda is included then let your guest know. if there is a cash bar then indicate that on the reception card so your guest are aware to bring a little extra cash.