7 Behind-the-Bar Secrets for a Stress-Free and Fun Wedding (That'll Make Your Day a Breeze)

Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of excitement, decisions, and let's face it, a bit of stress. But fear not! As the team behind countless cocktails for happy couples over the years, we've gathered some insider knowledge we'd love to share. 

Here are 7 behind-the-bar secrets to help you create a stress-free, fun-filled, and refreshingly unique bar experience for you and your guests:

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Tip 1: Go with the flow

Even the best-laid plans can go wrong. And when it comes to weddings, unexpected things will happen. The weather might take a turn, Uncle Bob might forget the rings, or your dress might get a little muddy. But that's okay! 

The key is to embrace the unexpected and choose a bar team that can adapt on the fly. We've seen it all, from surprise downpours to last-minute venue changes, and we always find a way to keep the drinks flowing and the good times rolling.

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Tip 2: Match the drinks to the season

Create a menu that reflects the season of your celebration, and use seasonal ingredients for your drinks – they’re not only delicious but also sustainable and make for a great talking point in themselves.

For example, a summer wedding calls for refreshing drinks, like a zesty mojito or a fruity sangria. But if you're tying the knot in winter, you might need something a bit cosier – like a warm mulled wine or a spiced cider. 

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Tip 3: Keep your menu tight

Don't feel pressured to have a full bar just to please everyone. A carefully curated selection can be just as satisfying – and much easier on your budget. 

Think one red and one white wine for dinner, some bubbly for toasts, 3 signature cocktails (with non-alcoholic options for those not drinking), and a few craft beers for the ale lovers. 

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Tip 4: Get crafty with beer choices

Speaking of beers, forget the keg! While it might seem like a good idea for a few beer enthusiasts, it often leads to unnecessary wastage and expense. 

Instead, offer a selection of quality bottled or canned beers that cater to different tastes. Plus, involve your beer-loving guests in the selection process, and they'll feel extra special.

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Tip 5: Different moments call for different drinks

Think about the different stages of your day and plan your drinks accordingly:

• Welcome drinks: Light and not-too-boozy options to set the mood and keep guests hydrated if it's a hot day.
• Reception: Signature cocktails and non-alcoholic mocktails to keep everyone mingling.
• Dinner: Fine wines and quality beers to complement the meal.
• Evening party: High-energy cocktails and shots to get the dance floor going.
• Late-night: Coffee and tea to prevent that post-meal slump and keep the energy up.

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Tip 6: Flair with care

Flairtending (juggling bottles and bar tools while mixing drinks) can add a touch of theatre to your bar, but it's important to strike a balance between entertainment and efficiency. 

If you're keen on the flair, consider having a dedicated flairtender who can roam around and entertain guests – while your main bar staff focus on keeping the drinks flowing quickly and smoothly.

Your guests will appreciate a well-made drink in hand more than a flaming cocktail show.

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Tip 7: Don’t ignore the prep

Get to know your venue and its team well in advance. Understanding the layout, restrictions, and amenities beforehand can save you a lot of stress on the big day. 

A well-prepped bar space is key to smooth service, so make sure to allocate enough time for stocking, organising, and chilling drinks before the guests arrive.

And if you're feeling overwhelmed, a professional bar service (like Twist Events!) can handle everything for you, so you can relax and enjoy your special day.

So, there you have it – our top tips for a stress-free and memorable wedding bar experience. 

If you're looking for a team that can help you bring these tips to life and create some truly delicious cocktails, don't hesitate to get in touch!

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