Can We Have an Alcohol-Free Reception?
Question: We will be providing meals for our guests at the reception but our budget doesn't stretch to alcohol, how do we word the invitations so guests know they will need to bring money for drinks?
Answer: by The Knot
Serving alcohol can really add to the costs, but if providing no alcohol at all is worrying you there are ways to do it without spending big bucks. By providing a glass of champagne on arrival and then just wine and beer from that point forward your guests will certainly feel looked after. Negotiate with the reception venue that you only pay for what is consumed and that there is a strict pouring limit. This way you can include words such as ”Champagne, wine & beer will be served, while cocktails may be purchased at the bar” indicating to the serious drinkers that they should bring some cash!
If you simply cannot find any room in your budget then add the following copy to your invitation: Meals and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided while beer, wine & spirits can be purchased at bar.
For smart ways to keep your budget, read our 30 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding
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Comments (2)
Brookelet
We did not want to pay for the alcohol at our engagement party so we wrote on the invitations “This will not be an open bar celebration but drinks will be available for those who wish to purchase them”
EmeraldBride, VIC
This is great advice… It’s always tricky wording to guests that they need to pay for something. But I agree, alcohol can be too expensive! It’s usually at least another $2,000, which is a lot of money when you’re looking at a cheap budged (eg. $10,000)