With endless options for your wedding day menu, we're here to talk all things bar, bakery, late-night snacks, and apps! From signature cocktails to dessert displays and crowd-pleasing bites, Episode 15 of 52 ‘Til I Do covers what to consider, how to prioritize, and tips for bringing flavor and fun to every part of your celebration.
In last week’s episode of 52 Till I Do, we talked about catering and how to estimate your budget. About 50% of your total budget will typically go toward your reception. If you’re in a situation where you’re bringing in your own caterer(s), we like to break it down like this: roughly 10% of that should go toward the venue itself, and the remaining 40% will cover food, drinks, desserts, and any tables, chairs, or décor.
So, if you’ve already chosen your main catering option before listening to this episode, you should now have a clearer idea of how much you have left to spend on your bar, bites, and bakery details.
The main types of bar packages you’ll come across are open bars, by-consumption bars, and cash bars. Just like everything else in wedding planning, each option comes with its own pros and cons. So let's dive a little deeper to better understand them.
An open bar means that all of the beverages provided throughout the evening (usually from cocktail hour to the end of the night) are completely paid for in advance by the couple or whoever is covering the cost. The bar charges a flat rate, per person, for unlimited drinks. You’ll typically know the total price upfront, and all of your guests’ drinks are covered ahead of time. This is definitely one of the more convenient and straightforward options!
A by-consumption bar means you pay for each drink that’s ordered. The bartenders will keep a running tab throughout the evening, and you’ll settle the total at the end of the event.
The downside, however, is that you won’t know the final cost until the night is over. This can lead to an unexpected (and sometimes unwelcome!) surprise on your bill. But, with an open bar, you and your loved one know the total cost upfront, making it easier to plan and budget for!
A cash bar is when each beverage is paid for at the time of ordering, either by cash or card. In this setup, your guests are responsible for purchasing their own drinks.
Another great option to consider is BYOB. If you’re not completely sold on any of the standard bar packages, this route can be a perfect fit. With BYOB, you have full control over what’s being served, you can choose your favorite drinks, stock up on what you know your guests will actually enjoy, and even save some money in the process. It is important to note that not all venues and catering teams allow this as an option, always check with your venue and caterer before moving forward.
Signature cocktails are custom beverages created to add a personal touch to your celebration. Maybe it’s a classic like a Moscow Mule with a fun twist, a drink inspired by you and your partner’s favorite flavors, or something playful like “The Margot” or “The Otto” to honor your pups! Whatever you choose, signature cocktails are a creative way to make your event a bit more you. Do we love to see these fun drinks? Absolutely! Do you need to have these on your wedding day? Absolutely not!
Yes, these are absolutely adorable, but at the end of the day, guests will usually just order the drinks they already know and love. Plus, some venues or bartenders may charge extra for the customization. So, chat with your partner and decide if this detail is something that really feels worth it to you!
We love a good specialty bar moment! These can be anything from champagne towers and drink walls to bar carts, and yes, even beer mules (a literal donkey involved in your drink setup, if you’re curious). The possibilities are endless when it comes to adding a unique twist to your bar.
But keep in mind, practicality does matter! A drink wall might be adorable and super Instagram-worthy, but make sure it’s actually functional, and not just a setup that ends up with spilled drinks everywhere. Fun is great, but you also want it to work smoothly throughout your reception!
Chances are, some of your guests won’t be drinking alcohol at your wedding. Whether they’re pregnant, the designated driver, or under 21, offering a few tasty non-alcoholic options is always a good idea.
Sure, a club soda with a lime is an easy classic, but custom mocktails can be a fun and memorable touch! If you’re serving a signature cocktail or a main drink at your reception, consider creating an alcohol-free version so everyone feels included and can join in on the celebration!
When it comes to desserts, there are a few key questions to ask before diving into this part of your planning. First: is your venue providing desserts? Will they supply a wedding cake? If they do, consider whether it’s the cake (or dessert) you actually want. If not, it’s time to start exploring local bakeries or vendors who can create the perfect sweet treats for your big day. And keep in mind, you don’t need a cake! We love a classic wedding cake. But from donuts, cupcakes, caramel apples, bundt cakes, and even pies, you have so many wonderful other options for your big day if cake isn’t your thing!
If a classic wedding cake is the vibe you’re going for, there are a few things you and your loved one will want to keep in mind!
A traditional multi-tiered cake can be stunning, but slicing and serving it to guests can be tricky and time-consuming. One solution? Have a smaller “cutting cake” just for you two to share, and provide simpler sheet cakes or cupcakes for your guests. This keeps things easier for your servers and ensures everyone gets a piece without a long wait.
Be sure to discuss how many servings you’ll need with your baker. Some cakes may look massive but serve fewer people than you expect.
Talk to your venue about when and how the cake will be set up. Some cakes need to stay refrigerated until right before the ceremony, and others may require specific tables or decorations.
By planning ahead and thinking about these details, you can make sure your cake is both beautiful and stress-free for your big day!
Let’s talk about the bites! Specifically, your cocktail hour hors d'oeuvres and those late-night snacks that keep the party going. Most venues or caterers will include some type of appetizer spread, but what if it’s not exactly what you want? This is your chance to get creative! From food trucks, snack carts, coffee and charcuterie carts think about what foods you and your guests actually love. Maybe mini tacos, late night ramen, cannolis, desserts, popcorn, and even fast food. This part of your wedding reception is a time where you and your loved one can be super unique and creative.
Pro Tip: Always double-check (and then triple-check!) with your venue to make sure outside late-night snacks are allowed. Policies can change over time, and the last thing you want is a surprise restriction keeping you from bringing in that dreamy coffee cart or food truck you’ve been envisioning!
If your friends and family are the type to spend the whole night on the dance floor, to-go snack bags are the perfect way to make sure they don’t miss out on those late-night bites! These little grab-and-go goodies can be as fun and creative as you want, think popcorn, pretzels, custom cookies, or even mini hotdogs. It’s a thoughtful (and adorable) touch that keeps the energy going and gives guests something tasty to enjoy on the way home.
When it comes to food and drinks, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Whether you’re planning a full bar, a donut wall, or late-night snacks for the dance floor, focus on what feels like you.
Keep your priorities in mind, stick to your budget, and choose options that make the night enjoyable for you and your guests. At the end of the day, it’s all about good food, good drinks, and great memories.
For more tips and tricks, tune into the full episode of 52 ‘Til I Do on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Have more bar, bakery and bites related questions? Send us a message at hello@marryment.com or get in touch on our social media—we love helping couples navigate this part of wedding planning!
Photo Credit to JNA Visuals
Marryment proudly serves couples all across Chicago and the surrounding Chicago Suburbs including popular areas such as Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Naperville, Evanston, Joliet, Oak Park, Skokie, Barrington, Downers Grove and Northbrook, to name a few. We also love destination weddings. We'd love to be a part of your wedding day! Schedule your free planning call with us today.
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