Open Bar vs. Cash Bar vs. Limited Bar: What Do They Really Cost?

When it comes to serving drinks at your wedding, the bar can quickly become one of the largest expenses. But deciding between an open bar, cash bar, or limited bar can have a huge impact on your budget and your guests’ experience. So, what’s the real cost difference—and which one makes the most sense for your wedding?

Let’s break down the options and weigh the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision that works for your big day.

#1 – Open Bar: The Ultimate Convenience (And Cost)

An open bar means that guests can drink whatever they want, with no cost to them. The couple covers the full cost of the alcohol, and typically, this is the most expensive option. The price will vary depending on the number of guests, type of drinks offered, and duration of service.

What You’ll Pay:
An open bar can cost anywhere from $15–$60 per person, with an average of $25–$40 per person for standard offerings (beer, wine, and well drinks). If you offer top-shelf liquors or signature cocktails, the cost will increase. Be sure to ask your venue for an estimate based on your guest count.

Pro: Guest Experience

Your guests will love an open bar! It’s simple, hassle-free, and ensures everyone can enjoy their favorite drink without worrying about a tab. Plus, it provides a more elegant, relaxed vibe where everyone feels taken care of.

Con: High Costs

The main downside? The cost. For a large wedding, the bill can easily run into the thousands of dollars. If your guest list is on the larger side, consider whether you’re willing to spend this much on drinks alone, especially if your budget is tight in other areas.

Tip to Save: Consider limiting the open bar to a few hours—perhaps during cocktail hour and dinner—rather than keeping it open all night.

#2 – Cash Bar: A Budget-Friendly Option, But Not Without Drawbacks

A cash bar is exactly what it sounds like: guests are expected to pay for their drinks. The couple may still provide a limited selection of complimentary beverages (like wine, beer, or soda), but beyond that, everything else comes with a price tag for guests.

What You’ll Pay:
While the couple typically doesn’t cover the cost of drinks, they may be required to pay a fee for the bar setup or staffing. Cash bars are usually the least expensive option, but keep in mind there might still be a setup fee of $500–$1,000, depending on your venue.

Pro: Lower Costs

A cash bar keeps your costs down significantly. Guests pay for their drinks, meaning you don’t have to foot the bill for everyone’s cocktails, wine, or beer. This can free up a lot of your budget for other wedding expenses.

Con: Guest Experience

While a cash bar is budget-friendly, it can be viewed as a bit tacky or inconvenient. Some guests might be disappointed, especially at a wedding. You’ll want to gauge your crowd—if it’s a formal or upscale event, a cash bar might not be the best fit. Additionally, guests might feel awkward or hesitant to pay for their drinks at a celebration like a wedding.

Alternative: If you want to offer some free drinks without going all out, consider offering a “welcome drink” or “signature cocktails” for guests to enjoy upon arrival.

#3 – Limited Bar: A Happy Medium

A limited bar is the sweet spot for couples who want to balance their budget with a good guest experience. It’s a hybrid option where only certain types of drinks are available for free, while others are for sale. For example, you might offer beer, wine, and a select choice of cocktails for free, but charge for premium liquors or specialty drinks.

What You’ll Pay:
The cost of a limited bar will depend on how many drink options you offer. For a more basic limited bar (beer and wine only), you might pay $15–$25 per person. If you include a wider selection of cocktails or top-shelf spirits, the price will go up. However, it’s still cheaper than a fully open bar.

Pro: Customizable & Affordable

A limited bar gives you the flexibility to select which drinks to include, allowing you to keep costs manageable while still offering your guests a nice selection. It’s also a good option for couples who want to be a bit more unique in what’s served at their wedding.

Con: Might Disappoint Some Guests

Though more affordable, a limited bar can leave some guests disappointed if they had been expecting a full open bar. Guests who prefer hard liquor or specific cocktails might not be as satisfied with a limited selection.

Tip: Be upfront with your guests about the type of bar service you’ll be providing so no one is caught off guard. If you’re offering a limited bar, include the details on your wedding website or in the invitation.

Choosing the Right Bar Service for Your Wedding

The right bar service will depend on your budget, guest expectations, and the atmosphere you want to create at your wedding. An open bar provides convenience but comes at a high price. A cash bar keeps your costs low but can be a guest experience challenge. Meanwhile, a limited bar offers a good balance of savings and quality service, giving you the flexibility to control your costs without sacrificing too much on guest enjoyment.

Final Tip: When budgeting for bar service, always account for bartender gratuity (typically 15%–20% of the total bill) and any additional fees, like setup or staffing. It’s an easy area for hidden costs to creep in!