10 Wedding Bar Mistakes Couples Make (and How to Avoid Them in 2026)
Avoid These Wedding Bar Mistakes in 2026
Your wedding bar is one of the most memorable parts of the night — but it’s also one of the easiest areas to overlook during planning. After serving hundreds of weddings throughout Massachusetts, Another Round Bar sees couples make the same avoidable mistakes. Here’s how you can sidestep every one of them and give your guests the best possible bar experience.
1. Not Hiring Enough Bartenders
The biggest bar mistake is underestimating staffing needs.
– 1 bartender per 50–70 guests is standard
– Add a barback for faster service
– Large weddings may need two bars
Another Round Bar handles staffing for you — and 5 Senses Events + Design often helps couples map out guest flow so the bar never becomes a bottleneck.
2. Not Ordering Enough Alcohol
Running out of alcohol is every couple’s nightmare. Use a wedding drink calculator or ask your bar team for exact quantities based on your guest count, drinking habits, and menu.
3. Forgetting About Ice (the #1 overlooked item)
Most couples underestimate ice by 50% or more.
You’ll need:
– 1.5–2 lbs per guest
– Extra if you’re serving shaken cocktails
– A backup stash in coolers or a freezer
Another Round Bar typically includes ice depending on the package you choose.
4. Choosing Too Many Cocktail Options
A long menu slows everything down.
The sweet spot:
– 2 signature cocktails
– Basic mixed drinks
– Beer, wine, and seltzers
Keep it simple and service stays fast.
5. Placing the Bar in the Wrong Location
Bar placement is everything.
Avoid placing it:
– In a narrow corner
– Far from the dance floor
– In a low-traffic area
– In a dark or unlit spot
5 Senses Events + Design often helps couples choose the perfect layout that keeps the line moving and keeps the bar accessible.
6. Not Planning for Weather
Outdoor weddings need weather plans:
– Tent cover
– Shade
– Extra ice
– Wind protection for décor
Your bar team can adjust setups, but planning ahead avoids last-minute scrambling.
7. Forgetting About Non-Drinkers
Always include something for guests who aren’t drinking:
– Mocktails
– Flavored water
– Lemonade or iced tea
– Sparkling NA options
This keeps everyone included and hydrated — especially during summer weddings.
8. Skipping a Timeline Review with Your Bar Team
Your bar crew needs your full timeline:
– Cocktail hour
– Dinner
– Toasts
– Dancing
– Last call
A quick review ensures your bar stays ahead of the night instead of reacting to it.
9. Not Having Late-Night Drink Options
Late-night specialty drinks are a 2026 trend couples love.
Ideas include:
– Mini espresso martinis
– Spiked hot chocolate
– After-dinner shots
– Themed shooters
Perfect for a dancing boost.
10. Booking Too Late
2026 dates — especially Saturdays — are already filling fast in Massachusetts. Mobile bars, bartenders, and planners get booked out early.
Another Round Bar and 5 Senses Events + Design both encourage couples to secure their vendors as soon as they select a venue.
Book Your 2026 Wedding Bar Early
Avoid the stress, avoid the mistakes, and give your guests a seamless bar experience.
👉 Ready to book Another Round Bar?
https://www.anotherroundbar.com/contact
Looking for full wedding planning or design support, too?
👉 Check out 5 Senses Events + Design: https://www.5sensesed.com
