Behind the Bar: Key Costs to Consider for Mobile Bartending Services

A breakdown of expenses in the mobile bartending service industry

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of mobile bartending services available and what you can expect at each level of service. When hiring a mobile bartending company, there are options to fit a range of budgets. Choosing a more budget-friendly service can help keep your costs down—but it often means you will be responsible for providing more. On the other hand, higher-tier services tend to handle more for you, offering greater convenience at a higher price point.

Hourly Mobile Bartending: (~$35 - $65 per hour) 

Your mobile bartender will show up with bar tools and pour what you have on-site.

What you need to do: 

• Supply the physical bar space

• Supply the alcohol 

• Supply the coolers & bar equipment

• Supply mixers & garnishes

• Supply Ice

• Supply cups, napkins, straws

• Supply beverage containers

• Supply bar menu & decor

A member of your party will need to have all the necessary supplies ready before the bartender arrives and will also be responsible for removing everything at the end of the event.

Dry-Hire Mobile Bartending: (~$12-22 per person) 

Your mobile bartender will show up with everything BUT the alcohol

The bartending company takes on the task of supplying everything needed for the bar to run efficiently.

This means they will supply

• The coolers & bar equipment

• Mixers & garnishes

• Ice

• Cups, napkins, straws

• Beverage containers

• Bar menu & decor

You are given a list of alcohol to purchase with recommended quantities and you take home what is not used.

This option allows for minimal work on your end and allows you and your guests to enjoy the event and not be bothered by having to deal with the bar…which is a comfort that is worth its weight in gold!

Note: Dry-Hire packages are usually a per person cost and will vary depending on your menu. If you want to keep costs low, it's important to make sure your menu expectations match your budget.

Full-Service Mobile Bartending: (~$16-45 per person) 

The option that provides the most convenience and stress-free bar experience.

A full service mobile bartending option allows clients to work with their bar service to create the menu & budget and the bar does the rest. 

In most cases this will be the most costly option but the mobile bartending service takes care of everything, including supplying the alcohol. 

Within a full service option you can opt for a cash bar, open bar, or pay by consumption service. 

In order to provide a full service bartending experience, bar services are required to have a more robust form of licensing and insurance, and that is often reflected in the price. 

Cost will vary based on factors like…

• Guest count

• Hours of service

• Location 

• Brand of alcohol or liquor

• Garnish type

• And more

With this in mind, it's crucial to be realistic with what type of mobile bartending service will align best with your budget,  event type, and bartending expectations.

If you know you want smoke shows, fresh herbs & higher-end cocktails, make sure your budget allows for it. 

If you're not sure what type of bar service is best for you, here are some questions to help narrow that down: 

• How important is the bar experience at my event?

• What level of service am I expecting?

• Does my menu fit my budget?

• How much can I take on myself to save costs? 

Have questions? We are here to help!