Wedding Glossary

    Catering & Bar

    Bar Package

    A pre-priced reception bar offering: open bar, cash bar, beer & wine only, or limited-call.

    Bar packages standardize what's available at the reception. Common levels: full open bar (everything), beer + wine + signature cocktail (most popular at modern weddings), limited-call (no top-shelf liquor), or cash bar (guests pay — increasingly seen as poor etiquette).

    Packages are priced per-guest per-hour or based on consumption. Per-person is predictable but can be 20-30% more expensive if your crowd isn't drinkers. Consumption is fair but unpredictable.

    Related terms

    Corkage Fee

    A per-bottle fee charged by a venue or caterer to open and serve wine you bring from outside.

    Signature Cocktail

    One or two custom-named cocktails featured at the reception bar, usually themed to the couple or wedding palette.

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