Massachusetts Liquor Laws Made Simple | Wedding & Event Bar Guide
🧾 Massachusetts Liquor Laws Made Simple for Event Hosts
Planning your wedding or private event should be exciting — not stressful. But when alcohol is involved, Massachusetts liquor laws can feel confusing.
At Another Round Bar, we help couples and event hosts stay fully compliant while creating a seamless, elevated bar experience. Here’s a quick, easy guide to help you understand what matters most.
🍸 1. You Must Use Licensed Bartenders
In Massachusetts, only licensed bartenders can legally serve alcohol at private events.
This protects both you and your guests by ensuring:
• Proper ID checks and responsible service
• TIPS-certified staffing
• Liability coverage in case of incidents
This is why hiring a professional mobile bar service isn’t just convenient — it’s legally smart.
📄 2. One-Day Liquor Licenses May Be Required
If you’re hosting on private property or at a venue without a liquor license, a one-day liquor license may be required through your local town or city.
The application process can vary, but typically involves:
• Filing with the local licensing board
• Showing proof of insurance
• Listing your licensed vendor (that’s us!)
We guide clients through this step so there are no last-minute surprises.
🧭 3. BYOB Is Not the Same as a Licensed Bar
Many couples assume that providing their own alcohol is a loophole — but that’s not quite how Massachusetts law works.
Even if alcohol is purchased separately, it must still be served by licensed bartenders under proper coverage. That’s where professional mobile bar services like ours come in.
🥂 4. Liability Insurance Protects Everyone
A huge piece of liquor law compliance is insurance.
At Another Round Bar, we carry:
• Full liquor liability coverage
• General event liability coverage
• Additional insured certificates for venues
This ensures you, your venue, and your guests are protected — legally and financially.
🧠 5. Everything Is Tracked in Harpsen
Every event we serve is fully organized through Harpsen, including permits, licenses, and staffing assignments.
This gives couples and planners a clear digital paper trail and peace of mind knowing everything is done by the book.
🪄 6. Planning Support with 5 Senses Events + Design
Navigating legal logistics can feel overwhelming. That’s why 5 Senses Events + Design offers full planning support, including help with timelines, vendor coordination, and setup.
You focus on celebrating — we handle the compliance behind the scenes.
🥂 Stress-Free, Legal, and Seamless Bar Service
Massachusetts liquor laws don’t have to be complicated. With the right team, your event can be both elevated and fully legal.
