So, you're thinking about having a party ( hooray) and you want to serve alcohol ( woohoo), and you're even thinking about hiring a bartender for your event (awesome)! But before you start your search for your awesome bartender, there are a few super important things that you will need to consider.
"How hard could it be to hire a bartender? ", you may ask, ( too easy) and, therein lies the dilemma. It is way too easy to hire a "bartender". But, in actuality, not all bartenders are the same. You may have even considered renting a tux for a friend or family member and having them be the stand in bartender for your event ( please don't). Why? Because there are consequences that you may not be aware of that may have an impact on your decision. ( read on)
While there are several logistical reasons why you need to hire a professional Licensed and Insured bartender for your event, the main, and most important reason is to protect yourself from liability.
Now you may be thinking "these are just my friends and family, I have nothing to worry about!" Unfortunately, your relationships with your guests do not protect you from any liabilities associated with serving alcohol at your event.
Risk & Regulation
Serving alcohol comes with liability, and varying degrees of regulations by state. Dram shop laws indicate that anyone injured by an intoxicated person can sue the person who provided the alcohol. Additionally, a bartender can be held liable for damages if they serve alcohol to someone who causes an accident or inflicts harm to a third party. Imagine if you decided to cut corners and hired a bartender that wasn't licensed and insured, or worse , if you had a friend or relative pose as the bartender. Who would then be liable? Well, without an insured bartender, event hosts could be held liable, especially if minors are involved. In plain English, you can be held liable for any harm or damages caused by an individual that was served alcohol and then caused harm to others as a direct result of becoming intoxicated at your event. This is a huge risk that no one should be willing to take. This is why you should hire a licensed and insured bartender, not just a person in a tuxedo serving drinks ( or your cousin, relative, neighbor ) at your event.
Experience & Expertise
Bartenders are more than just mixologists. They are trained and educated in the state specific laws and regulations of their state. Not only that, but they are trained in how to identify warning signs of intoxication, how to diffuse conflicts, how to redirect an intoxicated person and how to spot fake Id's. Many bartenders are also educated in liquor sequencing ( not all types of alcohol should be mixed ). What happens when a person who has had way too much to drink continues to request more? Who is responsible for protecting them from harming themselves or others? Who should be the one to suggest another option, or refuse to serve another drink? With a licensed insured bartender, you can insure that these failsafe measures will be put into place so that you and your guests can safely enjoy your event.
If you are planning a wedding, or using a venue most likely you will be required to only hire a licensed and insured bartender for your event. Again, this is a safety that the venues require in order to legally protect themselves from liability. The liability is transferred to the licensed and insured bartender who is covered and protected for the services they provide , and who are relied on to apply their training and expertise to ensure that everything runs smoothly and without incident. In case we forgot to mention, they should also really know how to make a mean cocktail! Ask them for their signature drink , or other suggestions to gauge their level of expertise and to insure they are the right fit for your event. That is super important!
Trust the Professionals
When you are looking to hire a professional bartender for your event, small house party, venued wedding, or office gala, be sure to only use a licensed and insured bartending service. Hiring a bartender for your event has a ton of perks. Not only do they ensure your guests are taken care of, they keep the drinks flowing, and keep the pace of the party. This means more time for you ( the host) to sit back relax and enjoy your party ( cheers!)
All of our BOB bartenders are professionally trained and covered by our liability insurance. Our no hassle bartending services include set up, take down, event staffing and drinks included*. Check out our website www.bob2you.com for more information on one of our easy packages, price quotes, and date availability.
* Depending on package selected
Still have questions? We've got answers. Email us or give us a call.
Look for bartenders who are licensed and insured, as this ensures they have undergone proper training and are covered in case of any incidents. Additionally, consider their experience, professionalism, and knowledge of state-specific alcohol regulations. Lastly, make sure they have rave reviews and plenty of satisfied customers!
Professional bartenders can enhance a wide range of events, including weddings, private parties, corporate events, fundraisers, and more. Any event where alcohol will be served can benefit from the expertise and services of a licensed bartender.
Yes, bartenders are typically responsible for verifying the age of guests and ensuring compliance with legal drinking age requirements. They should be trained to recognize fake IDs and refuse service to underage or intoxicated individuals.
Not all bartenders provide beverage catering service, so check with your service provider to confirm. Safely and legally providing alcohol at an event while abiding by local ordinances can be tricky, though, so we recommend trusting a professional to handle the red tape for you. At Bartender on Board (BOB), we've got you covered! Our bartenders come fully equipped with all the supplies needed to shake up the perfect drinks for your event. From the mixers to the garnishes, we bring everything needed to create a memorable experience. So sit back, relax, and let us handle the drinks while you enjoy the party!
Yes, professional bartenders like BOB handle setup, including arranging the bar area, organizing supplies, and preparing garnishes. They may also assist with cleanup, such as clearing empty glasses and disposing of waste, depending on your service agreement. Verify with your provider that the package you select includes these valuable perks!
Hiring a licensed and insured bartender can provide liability coverage in case of accidents or incidents related to alcohol service. The bartender's insurance may help protect both the event host and the bartender in such situations.
The cost can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the event, the number of guests, the type of drinks being served, and any additional services required (e.g., setup, cleanup). Get an instant quote from BOB here based on your specific needs.
We're glad you asked! Bartender on Board (BOB) is your choice for the ultimate party experience! We're not just any bartending service – we bring the fun with our top-notch mobile bartending services and a fantastic selection of drinks to suit every taste. With our friendly and experienced team, your wedding, corporate function, social gathering, or private party will be an absolute blast! Plus, rest easy knowing we're licensed, bonded, and insured, with over 30 years of combined management experience ensuring your event is safe, reliable, and unforgettable! Cheers to good times with BOB!
BOB has full service bartending and alcohol catering packages available for events of any size and budget.
Packages can include:
We build packages to meet your needs. Full service packages can include beverage delivery and consultation on your signature cocktails, beverage selections, and event bar planning. Click to get an instant quote for your event.
