Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life, but let’s be honest — it can also feel overwhelming. Between choosing the right venue, menu, and entertainment, many couples forget one important detail: how much alcohol and beverages to serve at the wedding. Get it wrong, and you either run out of drinks too early (a nightmare for your guests) or overspend on stock you don’t need.
The good news? With a little preparation, you can take the guesswork out of beverage planning. At Tap Truck NOLA, we’ve helped countless couples host smooth, stress-free wedding celebrations, and we’re sharing our insider tips below.
Why Beverage Planning Matters
Beverage planning goes beyond just stocking up on beer and wine. It’s about:
- Keeping guests happy with plenty of options.
- Avoiding overspending by buying smart quantities.
- Making memories with signature cocktails and fun drink experiences.
- Staying organized so you can enjoy the big day without worrying about running dry.
How to Estimate Alcohol for Your Wedding
The rule of thumb: plan for 1–2 drinks per guest per hour of your reception. Of course, not everyone drinks the same amount, but this formula gives you a safe and reliable estimate.
Here’s a quick breakdown based on a 5-hour reception with 100 guests:
- Beer: 6–7 cases (or 2–3 kegs)
- Wine: 40–50 bottles
- Spirits: 8–10 bottles of liquor (vodka, rum, whiskey, tequila, gin)
- Champagne: 1 glass per guest for the toast (about 18 bottles for 100 guests)
Don’t Forget Non-Alcoholic Options
Not every guest will drink alcohol — and some may want a refreshing alternative between cocktails. Be sure to include:
- Sparkling water & sodas
- Mocktails (a big trend for weddings in 2025!)
- Lemonade, iced tea, or fruit-infused waters
Having a balanced mix ensures everyone feels included in the celebration.
Customize Your Beverage Menu
One of the best ways to add personality to your wedding is by creating a signature drink menu. Some couples opt for a “his & hers” cocktail, while others theme their drinks around the season (think citrus spritzers for summer weddings or spiced cocktails for fall).
At Tap Truck NOLA, we can set up unique taps that serve everything from craft beer to custom cocktails and even non-alcoholic options. Your guests will love the experience — and it looks amazing in photos.
Why a Mobile Bar Makes It Easier
Managing the drinks at a wedding can be stressful if you’re handling it on your own. That’s where a mobile bar service like Tap Truck NOLA comes in. We help couples by:
- Calculating how much alcohol is needed for their guest count.
- Providing stylish vintage trucks that serve beer, wine, cocktails, and more.
- Offering professional bartenders to keep the drinks flowing.
- Reducing waste by tapping kegs and serving efficiently.
Instead of worrying about quantities and logistics, you get to enjoy your night knowing everything is covered.
Final Tips for Stress-Free Beverage Planning
- Know your crowd: A wine-loving guest list will require more bottles, while beer drinkers may prefer kegs.
- Ask your venue: Some venues have restrictions or corkage fees — know the rules before ordering.
- Plan for variety: A mix of beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks is ideal.
- Work with pros: A mobile bar service can save you time, money, and stress.
Make Your Wedding Unforgettable with Tap Truck NOLA
From outdoor garden weddings to elegant ballroom receptions, Tap Truck NOLA brings style, convenience, and plenty of drinks to your celebration. With our vintage mobile bars and customized beverage options, you’ll never have to stress about how much to serve — we’ll handle the details while you enjoy every moment of your big day.
👉 Ready to plan your wedding bar? Contact Tap Truck NOLA today to book your mobile bar and let’s make your reception unforgettable!
