Free Bar

[EmmaH]

Do people expect a free bar at weddings? I know a couple of people that have had one and they had liberties taken. I would prefer not to encourage people to get completely off their faces on the most expensive drink they can think of (which is often the case)

Whats everyone doing?

[Guest]

My parents paid for our wedding and the one thing we disagreed on was the bar- free or not. Mum and dad are old school being in their 60s now and are basically horrified at the thought of being invited to celebrate with someone then paying for the priviledge, likewise they believe in providing free bars at their do's as they want you to share their joy. I on the otherhand have only ever had a free bar at our do's and some of my cousins broke the mold having a pay bar for their 40ths etc...
When it came to our wedding Andrew was adamant that we didnt have a free bar as some of the people invited would take the mickey without question. we provided free wine etc with the meal and then got the first drink for everyone but the bar was charging. I specifically turned down various venues because of how much they charge. All that said, dad ran up several tabs of HUGE amounts and you'll be pushed to find anyone who only had one drink bought for them. It was his choice but at least this way they ordered their usual and didnt take liberties- its not uncommon to find people being really silly or the total opposite, i end up feeling guilty and ordering coke without the vodka when someone else pays!
I think the simple answer is in this day and age no one expects anything so its your call, just let people know whats what to avoid embarrassment on the day. You'll find most people attending will be polite about it all anyway, they're there for you afterall Good luck!

[Melyni]

Another alternative is to have a free beer and wine bar. Then, if someone desperately wants to do 15 vodka shots, it's their choice, their cost, and their hangover!

Melyni