Are you planning an event and wondering about the bar service? You might be tempted to ask your cousin Kyle with his basement bar or the office receptionist to handle drinks. After all, how hard can pouring liquids into glasses be, right?
Well, there’s more to professional bartending than meets the eye. Not only do amateur bartenders lack proper licensing, but they also miss out on the experience and skills that make events truly shine. Do they have what it takes to manage a line of people? Do you know what a Hawthorne strainer is? What about how to properly check IDs?
Your event needs a professional bartender. Not to be dramatic or anything but this literally could be life or death. But let’s not go there. Let’s focus on the 9 reasons why you need an event bartender.
Legal Compliance
Regarding serving alcohol at events, legal compliance isn’t just a bureaucratic hurdle—it’s a crucial safeguard for your guests and your liability. Professional event bartenders come equipped with the necessary training and certifications to ensure your event stays on the right side of the law.
Essential Certifications:
Knowledge of Local Laws:
Professional bartenders stay up-to-date with local and state liquor laws, which can vary significantly by jurisdiction. They’re familiar with:
Liability Understanding:
Event bartenders are well-versed in “dram shop laws,” which can hold alcohol servers liable for injuries caused by intoxicated guests. They know how to:
Age Verification Expertise:
Professional bartenders are trained in spotting fake IDs and understanding the nuances of various state and international identification cards. They know the right questions to ask and what to look for to prevent underage drinking.
Safe Serving Practices:
Beyond just knowing the laws, professional bartenders implement safe serving practices, such as:
Their training and knowledge of legal compliance help create a safe environment for your guests while protecting you from potential legal issues.
Efficiency
Just as experienced drivers navigate traffic with ease, professional bartenders have mastered the art of efficient drink service. It’s not just about looking cool (though flair bartending is indeed impressive); it’s about years of experience distilled into smooth, practiced motions that maximize output and minimize wait times.
Imagine this scenario: It’s 8 PM, and suddenly 20 guests descend on the bar, all craving different cocktails. An amateur bartender like Kyle from the basement might panic at the sight of the crowd, serving one drink at a time, often forgetting orders and fumbling with unfamiliar bottles and mixers. It could take him 30+ minutes to serve everyone, leaving guests frustrated. In contrast, a professional event bartender remains calm and organized. They take multiple orders at once, prepare similar drinks in batches, and use efficient pouring techniques. The result? All 20 guests are served in about 10-15 minutes.
Professional bartenders employ various tools and techniques to boost efficiency. Speed pourers allow for precise, fast pouring without spills. Bar mats provide a non-slip surface for quick drink assembly. Cocktail shakers are often used two at a time for faster service, while jiggers ensure accurate measurements without slowing down the process.
These pros have an arsenal of techniques for speed. The “free pour” allows skilled bartenders to pour precise amounts without measuring tools. Some cocktails are “built” directly in the serving glass to save time. Mise en place, or preparing garnishes and common ingredients in advance, is another time-saver. And of course, memorized recipes mean no need to check a book for common cocktails.
Efficient workflows are key to a professional bartender’s success. They create systems to maximize output, such as strategically placing bottles and tools for minimal movement, prioritizing orders based on complexity and preparation time, and using downtime to restock and prepare for the next rush.
Knowledge of classic drinks is crucial. A pro knows that a martini typically calls for vermouth (though proportions vary), while a margarita doesn’t. This knowledge allows for quick, confident preparation without hesitation or mistakes.
The efficiency of a professional event bartender isn’t just about speed—it’s about providing a smooth, stress-free experience for your guests. While basement bar Kyle might know his way around a home bar, he likely lacks the finely-tuned skills that allow a professional to turn a potential bottleneck into a well-oiled machine. When the drinks flow smoothly, so does your event, keeping guests happy and the atmosphere lively.
Subject Matter Expertise
Imagine the company owner approaching the bar, eager to discuss the differences between rye, whiskey, and bourbon. A professional event bartender can effortlessly engage in this conversation, while an amateur might struggle, potentially leading to an awkward situation.
Professional bartenders possess a wealth of knowledge that goes far beyond basic drink recipes. They can explain that bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, while rye whiskey uses rye as the primary grain. They understand the distinct flavor profiles: bourbon’s sweetness versus rye’s spicier notes.
Their expertise extends to other spirits and cocktails too. They can discuss gin’s botanical composition, explain why certain cocktails are shaken or stirred, and offer insights into the history and cultural significance of various drinks.
This knowledge doesn’t just prevent uncomfortable situations – it enhances the entire event experience. Bartenders can:
By having a knowledgeable professional behind the bar, you’re not just serving drinks – you’re adding an element of entertainment and education to your event. This expertise impresses guests, stimulates interesting conversations, and elevates the sophistication of your gathering.
Experience with the Public
Kyle’s basement bar skills might impress his friends, but professional event bartenders bring a wealth of public experience. They’re trained to handle diverse situations, from overserved bridesmaids to demanding CFOs. Their emotional intelligence allows them to read the room and adjust their service accordingly, ensuring a smooth experience for all guests.
Reduced Stress for Event Planners and Guests
Hiring professional bartenders takes a huge weight off event planners’ shoulders. They handle everything from supplies and equipment to setup and cleanup. This allows planners to focus on other aspects of the event, and guests can relax knowing they’re in capable hands.
Adherence to Budget
Counter to what you might think, professional bartenders can actually save you money. They know exact pour amounts, preventing waste and overserving. For instance, they understand that a champagne toast requires just 1 oz per glass, not 5 oz, potentially saving you cases of champagne throughout an event.
Satisfaction with Event
Professional bartenders significantly boost guest satisfaction. With experience serving hundreds or thousands of people, they know how to craft drinks and provide service that leaves guests impressed and happy. Their expertise contributes to the overall success and enjoyment of your event.
Responsible Service of Alcohol
While some might think guests want strong drinks, what they really want is a safe and enjoyable experience. Professional bartenders are trained in responsible alcohol service, ensuring guests have a good time without compromising safety.
It's Worth It
Given all these benefits – from stress reduction and budget adherence to guest satisfaction and safety – hiring professional event bartenders is a worthwhile investment. They bring value that far exceeds their cost, contributing significantly to the success of your event.
Event Bartenders: You Need Them
Professional event bartenders bring expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind to your gathering. They ensure legal compliance, manage your bar budget effectively, and elevate the overall guest experience. By entrusting your bar service to skilled professionals, you can relax and enjoy your own event, knowing that your guests are in capable hands. Don’t leave your event’s success to chance – invest in professional event bartenders and watch your gathering transform from ordinary to extraordinary.
Professional event bartenders are closer than you think. They’re right here actually. If you need a bartender for your event, you can contact us at Deluxe Bartending Services and get a free quote.
