Wedding Alcohol Bar Tab Estimator
Planning an open bar for your wedding? Estimate your total bar tab using guest count, how many hours the bar will be open, typical drinking pace, and average drink cost.
Estimated Total Bar Tab
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Estimated Total Drinks Served—
Drink Subtotal ($)—
Service Charge/Gratuity ($)—
Total Estimated Tab ($)—
About this calculator
Estimate the total open-bar tab for a wedding reception based on guest count, event duration, drink pace, and average drink price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many drinks does the average wedding guest have per hour?
Most planners estimate 1 to 1.5 drinks per guest per hour for a typical reception, though this varies by crowd and event type.
Should I include non-drinkers in guest count?
No — use only the number of guests likely to drink alcohol for a more accurate estimate, then add non-alcoholic beverage costs separately.
Does this include the bartender's tip?
The service charge field can represent gratuity or venue service fees; check your contract since some venues charge both separately.