BYOB vs Full Service Mobile Bar
Understand the difference and choose the right option for your event and budget.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BYOB | Full Service |
|---|---|---|
| You buy the alcohol | Yes | No — included |
| Professional bartender | Yes | Yes |
| Bar setup & equipment | Yes | Yes |
| Mixers, ice, garnishes | Usually included | Always included |
| Glassware | Usually included | Always included |
| Cost per person | $15 – $25 | $25 – $50 |
| Total for 100 guests | $1,500 – $2,500 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Leftover alcohol | Yours to keep | Goes back with vendor |
| Best for | Budget events, private venues | Hassle-free, premium events |
When to Choose BYOB
- You want to save money. Buying alcohol at retail (Costco, Total Wine) is significantly cheaper than per-person pricing from a vendor.
- Your venue allows it. Backyard parties, private farms, and non-licensed venues are ideal for BYOB.
- You want control over the selection. Choose exactly which brands and types of alcohol to serve.
- You want to keep leftovers. Unopened bottles are yours to enjoy later.
- You have a smaller event. For events under 50 guests, BYOB is almost always the better value.
When to Choose Full Service
- You want zero hassle. The vendor handles everything — shopping, transporting, setup, service, and cleanup.
- Your venue requires it. Many licensed venues require a licensed vendor to serve alcohol.
- You want craft cocktails. Full-service providers often have experienced mixologists who can create custom drinks.
- You have a large event. For events over 150 guests, the logistics of buying and transporting that much alcohol yourself becomes impractical.
- It is a corporate or formal event. Full service ensures a polished, professional experience.
BYOB Shopping Guide
If you go the BYOB route, here is a general shopping guide per 100 guests for a 4-hour event:
Pro tip: Buy from stores with a return policy on unopened bottles. Costco and Total Wine both accept returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does BYOB mobile bar service mean?
BYOB (Bring Your Own Booze) mobile bar service means you purchase all the alcohol yourself, and the mobile bar company provides everything else: professional bartender(s), bar setup, glassware, ice, mixers, garnishes, and cleanup. This is the most budget-friendly option and gives you full control over your drink selection and budget.
How much cheaper is BYOB vs full service?
BYOB typically costs 30-50% less than full service. A BYOB package runs $200-$500 for the bartender and setup, plus $8-$15 per person for alcohol you purchase yourself. A full-service package with alcohol included costs $25-$50 per person. For a 100-guest event, BYOB might cost $1,500-$2,000 total vs $2,500-$5,000 for full service.
Can I do BYOB at any venue?
Not always. Some venues require licensed vendors to serve alcohol and do not allow client-provided drinks. Others have exclusive catering contracts that include bar service. Always check with your venue before booking a BYOB service. Private venues (homes, farms, backyards) are almost always BYOB-friendly.
How much alcohol should I buy for a BYOB event?
Plan for 2-3 drinks per guest in the first hour, then 1-2 drinks per hour after that. For a 4-hour event with 100 guests, estimate: 15-20 bottles of liquor, 8-10 bottles of wine, and 4-5 cases of beer. Your mobile bar company can usually provide a detailed shopping list based on your guest count and drink menu.
What is included in a full-service mobile bar package?
Full-service packages include everything: professional bartenders, a portable bar setup, all glassware and bar tools, ice, mixers, garnishes, napkins, all alcohol and beverages, setup, service, and cleanup. Some premium packages also include specialty cocktails, custom menus, branded signage, and even a tip jar setup.
Compare Mobile Bar Services Near You
Browse 1,501+ services — filter by BYOB and full-service options.