What Is a Wedding Drinks Package?

A wedding drinks package is a pre-planned bar setup designed around your guest numbers, timings, and style of reception.

Instead of guessing quantities or buying everything yourself, drinks packages bundle together:

• The type of drinks you want served
• The style of bar (staffed, self-serve, draught)
• Glassware, ice, and equipment
• Professional service (if required)

Bubbly Drinks Packages (Prosecco & Champagne)

Bubbly is one of the most popular wedding reception choices — especially for arrival drinks and speeches.

• Perfect for welcoming guests after the ceremony
• Keeps things light and celebratory
• Easy to control quantities and cost

Many couples choose prosecco over champagne as it offers great value while still feeling special.

Bubbly packages work particularly well when paired with another option later in the evening.

Cocktail Packages – A Big Crowd Pleaser

Cocktails add a real “wow” factor to wedding receptions. They’re ideal if you want something memorable and personalised.

• Signature cocktails chosen by the couple
• Seasonal or themed options
• Great talking point for guests

For larger weddings, many couples limit cocktails to a set time (such as the first hour) to keep queues down and service smooth.

Draught Beer Options – The Classic Crowd Favourite

Draught beer setups are becoming increasingly popular at weddings, especially for evening receptions.

• Fast service for larger guest numbers
• Less waste compared to bottles and cans
• Ideal for relaxed, social evenings

Draught options work particularly well for countryside venues, marquee weddings, and festivals-style receptions.

Mix & Match: The Most Popular Wedding Bar Setup

Many couples choose a combination rather than a single drinks package. A common setup looks like this:

• Arrival: Prosecco or champagne
• Early reception: Cocktails or wine
• Evening: Draught beer, spirits, and mixers

This keeps guests happy throughout the day without overspending on one option.

Staffed Bar vs Self-Serve Packages

Staffed Wedding Bar

• Professional bartenders handle everything
• Smoother service for larger weddings
• Less stress for you and your guests

Bar in a Box (Self-Serve Option)

• Ideal for relaxed or DIY weddings
• Lower staffing costs
• Still looks clean and professional

At Viva Bar Hire & Events, we offer both options and help you choose what suits your venue and guest numbers.

How to Choose the Right Drinks Package

• Guest numbers and age range
• Length of your reception
• Venue restrictions or power access
• Your overall wedding style (formal vs relaxed)

The best packages are simple, balanced, and designed around how people actually drink.

Let Us Build the Right Wedding Bar for You

If you’re unsure which drinks package works best, we’ll help you plan a setup that fits your day perfectly.

At Viva Bar Hire & Events, we provide stress-free wedding bars with clear planning and professional service.

Tell us your guest numbers, venue, and style — and we’ll recommend the right combination of bubbly, cocktails, and draught options.