Wedding Bar Calculator

How much alcohol do you need for a wedding?

The wedding-industry rule of thumb is one drink per guest per hour, with the first hour running about 1.5× heavier because of cocktail-hour enthusiasm. After that, consumption usually settles down once dinner and dancing start.

That gives a simple formula: total drinks ≈ guests × (1.5 + (hours − 1)). For 120 guests at a 5-hour reception, that's around 660 drinks across the night.

The 40/40/20 rule

Caterers and bar managers usually plan for 40% beer, 40% wine, 20% spiritsas a generic split. Adjust based on the crowd:

• Older/formal crowds — bump wine to 50% and reduce spirits.
• Younger crowds, summer afternoon — bump beer to 50%.
• Cocktail-forward couple — push spirits to 30% and include a signature drink.
• Dry country, brewing region — local preferences should weight the mix.

Bottle and case maths

• Beer is 1 bottle = 1 drink. A case is 24 bottles.
• Wine is 1 standard bottle = 5 pours (5 oz / 150 ml each). A case is 12 bottles.
• Spirits are 1 × 750 ml bottle ≈ 16 pours (1.5 oz / 45 ml each).

Most liquor retailers in Australia, the US, and Canada will let you return unopened cases — so it's better to over-order by ~10% than run out mid-reception. Ask explicitly when you book; many caterers and venues build this into their service agreement.

What about non-drinkers, kids, and elders?

About 10–15% of your guest list will drink mostly soft drinks or water. Plan to order:

• 1 × 1L bottle of mixers (soda, tonic, juice) per 3–4 guests
• 3–4 bottles of still and sparkling water per 10 guests
• Coffee and tea service for after dinner — even at non-formal events

Should I supply ice?

Yes — plan for about 0.5 kg of ice per guest for a 5-hour reception. Some of that is for chilling bottles, some for drinks. Caterers usually include this in their package; if you're self-supplying, order from the venue's preferred ice provider the day before.

Cash bar vs open bar

In Australia, an open bar is standard for weddings and consumed drinks are charged to the couple after the night. In North America, open bars are also common but cash bars are socially acceptable. If running a cash bar, brief guests in the invitation so they bring cash or know the venue takes cards.