The Professional Approach to Event Bar Logistics
Chill solutions for your event beverage coordination
The Professional Approach to Event Bar Logistics
Chill solutions for your event beverage coordination
Alcohol Concierge FAQ
What are the benefits of this service?
There are numerous benefits to taking advantage of this service.
First, and most importantly it is very time consuming to take on this task. Many venues require same day delivery and removal of items. The last thing you want to do is spend the entire morning before your event doing all this heavy lifting and be exhausted by the time your event begins. Let yourself and guests relax and enjoy the day and let us do the work.
Secondly, deciding what and how much to get can be a headache. We assist you in your selections and make sure to bring plenty to the venue so the bar won’t run dry.
Lastly, it actually saves money. We come back at the end of event to collect leftovers and return to the store. You pay only for what is used.
How much does it cost?
You simply pay a fee for our services and alcohol is provided at cost. Service fee varies based on guest count, location of venue, and date. Discount on service fee is offered if also using bar services as we then only need to make a single trip to the venue.
As we cannot predict exactly why and how much your guests will drink, we cannot provide a exactcost for alcohol. The best we can do is offer an estimate based on your selections and guest count. If you have a maximum budget, we can work with you by adjusting selections or quantity to ensure you don’t go over that budget. Alcohol cost for a basic top shelf bar averages around $15/person for a 4-5 hour bar.
You can check current prices of liquor and wine on the PA fine wine and good spirits website. Sales are monthly and we do our very best to get your requested items at sale prices.
What do I do with leftovers?
You’re welcome to take any leftover alcohol home with you the night of your event or we can schedule delivery to your home at a later date. It is standard for all opened and non-returnable items to be taken with you at the end of the evening. Some couples also prefer to take an extra bottle of liquor or some beer to continue the party elsewhere.
We can also pick up any returnable items and issue a refund when possible.
What can be returned?
Any unopened containers in mint condition (no torn labels etc.) can be returned by RRBS for a refund. Exceptions will be noted at the time of your order. The decision to accept an item for return is made from the place of purchase and may be subject to a restocking fee.
How much liquor do I need?
While most recommendations are given simply by the number of guests, there are actually many factors involved in finding the answer to this question. Our goal is to help you avoid unnecessary spending and order what you need to keep your guests happy throughout the event. Each event is unique and we will work together to provide the proper quantities for your event during our consultation which is included in our service fee. You will be sent a questionnaire after making a deposit for services which will be very helpful when placing your order.
What if I run out of something during my event?
We usually order plenty of excess so this does not occur. There are of course very rare times that something will run out such as 75% of people end up drinking lite beer and not alcohol. Or drink all white wine and no red wine. Any supply issues should be managed by the bartenders as RRBS will not be on site for the event (unless we are the bartenders). With proper notice from the bartenders, we may be able to deliver more to the venue and do our best to make it happen. What we can ensure is that the bar will not completely run dry, there will always be another option for a guest to choose from. RRBS must be notified of any possible supply issues no later than 2 hours before the end of the event or 1 hour before store closure.
Do all my guests have to be over 21?
This is at the discretion of the event venue. Your guests however must be 21 to consume or handle alcoholic beverages and there are not exceptions to this law for events. It is a good idea to have all guests take along valid identification or they could be denied service without proof of age. This includes the Bride, Groom, and the Wedding party. By using our Service, you consent to the alcohol being served only to those of legal drinking age and those who are not visibly intoxicated. Our main responsibility, is not to serve drinks. It’s to ensure alcoholic beverages are served legally and responsibly.
Can I have a cash bar?
PA law requires a liquor license to sell alcohol for profit. Without a liquor license, you cannot legally have a cash bar, or charge admission to enter the event to include an open bar. The liquor control board does have special occasion permits. If the cost of alcohol is not in your budget and you prefer a cash bar, we do have connections with licensed establishments that can be of assistance.
What size bottles do you use?
We purchase standard 750ml or 1L (if available). While 1.75L or “handles” are slightly cheaper, overall you will save more money by using standard bottles. First, you will have less left over. Secondly, a proper pour spout can be inserted where an experienced bartender can more accurately and consistently pour the proper amount. It’s easy to pour too much with those large bottles. Large bottles are also burdensome for bartenders as they take up much more space and are heavy to be lifted constantly hundreds of times throughout the night.
Can I bring additional alcohol on my own?
Yes you’re welcome to bring anything you wish on your own. Many couples like to bring a special bottle of whiskey, a local beer thats not available nearby the venue, stuff sitting around at home you want to get rid of, etc. Just make sure myself and the bartenders know what you provided so all leftovers get back to you. All alcohol should be served by bartenders. Exceptions are bottles of wine and champagne that may sit on the dinner table (this is up to the policy of your caterer).
What types of payment do you accept?
Credit card processing fees on a few thousand dollars of alcohol can really add up. We don’t want you to spend more than you have to so payments are made securely online via ACH from your bank account. You’re also welcome to mail a personal check or certified check though the mail is not the most reliable or safest. If this does not work for you we can make accommodations for an additional fee.
When do we pay?
Upon booking you will receive an invoice for the full service fee. Upon receipt you will pay a portion of that fee as a deposit to secure the date and begin consultation. This deposit is non-refundable. The remainder is due at your convenience no later than 1 month before the wedding. Alcohol invoices will be sent separately and amount and time due is based on individual circumstances.