What are wedding drinks packages and how much do they cost?

A drinks package is a pre-agreed deal between you and your venue or caterer. It typically covers a period of time, such as the drinks reception or the toasts, and includes a choice of wines, beers, soft drinks and sometimes a signature cocktail or sparkling wine. Packages can also include a bar tab, where you set a limit and guests order from a menu until the tab runs out.

The cost depends on many things: the number of guests, the length of time, the quality of the drinks, whether staff are included, and the venue's location. A package in a city hotel will cost more than a village hall, but the village hall may not offer a bar at all. Some venues require you to use their in-house drinks package, while others let you bring your own, which can be cheaper but may involve a corkage fee.

Always ask what is included in the package: glasses, ice, mixers, soft drinks, staff, and whether the package covers the whole event or just the first hour. Some packages allow you to upgrade individual drinks. Read the small print about what happens if guests do not drink everything, because some packages are non-refundable.