We’ve seen creative bar setups for all types of events at AVENUE – traditional bars, circular bars, mobile bars, and even bars built on barrels. While the designs varied, the best ones all have one thing in common: smart service strategies that shorten the event bar line and keep guests happy.
Here are four tips to shorten the bar event line from our catering and bar service partners to help your event bar service run smoothly.
1. Prepoured and Passed Options
One of the easiest ways to avoid a bar line altogether is to serve passed wine and specialty cocktails during your social hour. Or greet your guests with prepoured glasses of Champagne displayed in an eye-catching welcome arrangement.
Specialty mocktails and cocktails offer a fun way to tie-in your event theme – and since they can be batched in advance, they save time at the bar.
2. Offer a Streamlined Drink Menu
A limited selection can actually make a big impact. Serving wine, beer, and one or two speciality cocktails and mocktails will keep the line moving much faster than a full bar.
3. Eliminate the Payment Step
Hosted bars are efficient because there’s no transaction to slow things down. Removing the need for card swipes or cash exchanges significantly reduces wait time per guest — and helps maintain the celebratory vibe.
4. Match the Bar Staff to the Crowd
Professional caterers and bar service providers will calculate the ideal number of bartenders based on your anticipated guest count and drink menu. They also know the most efficient setup behind the bar to minimize wasted movement and maximize speed.
Consider Your Bar Placement and Layout
Where you place the bar—and how guests approach it—can have a big impact on efficiency. A bar tucked in a corner may create a bottleneck, while one with open access on multiple sides can keep lines moving. Work with your planner or caterer to align your bar setup with your event flow.
Double Up for Larger Crowds
For events with a high guest count, consider adding a second bar or satellite drink station. Even a simple setup offering wine and beer can significantly reduce congestion at the main bar and improve the guest experience.
Bonus Tip: Use Visual Technology to Guide Ordering
At AVENUE, many clients take advantage of our digital projection areas to enhance bar service. Placing the bar in front of one of our digital projection areas and designing a graphic that highlights the bar location and drink menu lets guests preview their options – reducing decision-making time once they reach the bar.
At AVENUE we offer flexible catering and bar service options, allowing you to craft your ideal vendor team. If you don’t have a favorite already, we feature recommendations on our website.