Wedding Reception Drinks Packages – Bubbly, Cocktails & Draught Options Explained
Choosing the right wedding reception drinks package can completely change how your evening feels. The right setup keeps guests happy, queues short, and costs under control—while the wrong one can cause delays, confusion, and unnecessary stress.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed countryside wedding or a large evening celebration, this guide breaks down the most popular wedding drinks packages, including bubbly receptions, cocktail bars, and draught beer options—so you can confidently choose what works best for your day.
VIVA Bar Hire & Events provides flexible wedding bar setups across the UK, from fully staffed mobile bars to Bar in a Box packages designed to fit different budgets and venues.
Why Your Wedding Drinks Package Matters
Your drinks setup affects more than just what’s being served. It impacts:
- Guest experience (queues vs smooth service)
- Atmosphere (formal, relaxed, or party-focused)
- Budget control
- Bar speed during peak times
The best wedding drinks packages balance simplicity with choice—enough options to keep guests happy, without slowing service or increasing costs.
Bubbly Drinks Packages (Perfect for Receptions)
A bubbly reception is one of the most popular wedding drinks options in the UK. It sets the tone for the celebration and works beautifully for arrival drinks or immediately after the ceremony.
What’s Included
- Prosecco or Champagne
- Flutes or glassware
- Optional non-alcoholic sparkling alternatives
Best For
- Wedding receptions
- Photo moments
- Elegant, low-stress starts to the evening
Tip: Many couples choose bubbly for the first hour, then move into a different bar setup later in the evening.
Cocktail Wedding Drinks Packages
Cocktail packages are a great way to add personality to your wedding bar without offering a full cocktail menu.
How Cocktail Packages Usually Work
- 2–3 signature cocktails
- Classic crowd-pleasers (e.g. Mojito, Espresso Martini)
- Optional mocktail versions
Best For
- Evening receptions
- Festival-style or modern weddings
- Couples who want something memorable but controlled
Why limited works: Fewer cocktails = faster service and shorter queues.
Draught Beer Wedding Packages
Draught beer is increasingly popular at weddings, especially for larger guest counts or relaxed venues.
What’s Included
- Draught beer taps
- Lager, cider, or ale options
- Chilled serving throughout the event
Best For
- Larger weddings (100+ guests)
- Marquees and outdoor venues
- Guests who prefer beer over spirits
Draught service is one of the fastest ways to serve large numbers efficiently.
Mixed Wedding Drinks Packages (Most Popular Option)
The most common wedding reception drinks package combines several elements:
- Bubbly or prosecco on arrival
- Beer, wine, and spirits during the evening
- Optional cocktail or draught upgrade
This approach gives variety without overwhelming the bar team—or your budget.
Staffed Bar vs Bar in a Box
Staffed Wedding Bar
- Professional bartenders
- Fast service
- Ideal for larger weddings
Bar in a Box Wedding Package
- Delivered bar setup
- Flexible, cost-effective
- Great for relaxed or DIY-style weddings
Many couples choose a hybrid setup: staffed service early on, then a simpler setup later.
How to Choose the Right Wedding Drinks Package
Ask yourself:
- How many guests are attending?
- Do we want speed or variety?
- Is the venue indoor or outdoor?
- Do we want a hosted bar or pay bar?
Answering these questions makes choosing the right package much easier.
Plan Your Wedding Drinks with VIVA
If you want help choosing the best wedding reception drinks package, VIVA Bar Hire & Events can create a setup tailored to your guest numbers, venue, and budget.
Contact us:
- Website: https://vivabarhire.co.uk
- Email: info@vivabarhire.co.uk
- WhatsApp: 07495 617107
Tell us your wedding date, venue, and guest count—and we’ll help you build the perfect drinks package.