How to Hire a Bartender for a Party

Hiring a professional bartender transforms a good party into a great one. Instead of playing host and bartender all night, you get to enjoy your own event while a pro handles the drinks, setup, and cleanup. Here's everything you need to know to hire the right bartender for your party.

Step 1: Determine Your Party Needs

Before you start shopping for a bartender, answer these key questions:

• Guest count: How many people are you expecting? This determines how many bartenders you need.
• Event type: Birthday, house party, graduation, holiday party? Different events call for different service levels.
• Drink menu: Do you want craft cocktails, beer and wine only, or a full open bar?
• BYOB or full service: Will you buy the alcohol yourself or have the bar company provide everything?
• Venue: Indoor, outdoor, backyard, rented venue? This affects the type of bar setup needed.
• Duration: Most parties need 3-5 hours of bar service. Plan for the full duration of your event.

Step 2: Understand Your Pricing Options

Step 3: Find and Compare Bartenders

Use our directory to browse mobile bartending services in your area. Here's what to look for when comparing options:

• Experience and reviews: Look for bartenders with positive reviews and experience with your type of event.
• Insurance: Professional bartenders should carry liability insurance. Ask for proof.
• Certifications: TIPS certification or equivalent responsible service training is a good sign.
• Clear pricing: Get itemized quotes with no hidden fees. Ask about overtime charges and travel fees.
• Included services: Confirm what's included (setup, cleanup, glassware, ice, mixers, garnishes).
• Flexibility: Can they customize a drink menu? Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?

Pro tip: Get quotes from at least 3 bartending services to compare pricing and service levels. Our free quote request form makes this easy.

Step 4: Book and Prepare

Once you've chosen your bartender, take these steps to ensure a smooth event:

1. Sign a contract that outlines all services, pricing, and cancellation terms.
2. Confirm the drink menu and any special requests at least 2 weeks before the event.
3. If BYOB, ask your bartender for a shopping list based on your guest count and menu.
4. Ensure your venue has adequate space, power outlets, and water access for the bar setup.
5. Plan for the bartender to arrive 1-2 hours before guests for setup.
6. Have ice, a cooler, and any special ingredients ready if applicable.

BYOB Shopping Tips

If you're providing your own alcohol, here are general guidelines for a 4-hour party:

• Plan for 2-3 drinks per person for the first hour, then 1-2 drinks per hour after that.
• For 50 guests (4 hours): ~80 beers, 10 bottles of wine, and 3-4 bottles of liquor for cocktails.
• Buy from stores with return policies so you can return unopened bottles.
• Stock up on ice: Plan for 1-1.5 lbs of ice per guest.
• Non-alcoholic options: Always have water, soda, and at least one mocktail option available.

Frequently Asked Questions