Oisin Foster
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, and getting the drinks right is an important part of the process. If you're supplying the alcohol yourself, it's a good idea to buy in bulk to save money. There are a few things to consider when buying beer in bulk for a wedding: the number of guests, the duration of the event, and the guests' drinking preferences. It's also important to plan ahead and calculate how much beer you'll need. Online calculators can help with this, and some retailers offer bespoke services to ensure you have enough drinks for your big day. Buying in bulk from wholesalers or club stores like Costco and Sam's Club can offer significant savings, and some retailers provide discounts for large orders. It's also worth noting that buying returnable items in smaller quantities, such as six-packs of beer, can increase the chances of having unopened items to return.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How much beer to buy | Use a wedding calculator to estimate how much beer you need based on the number of guests and number of hours |
| Beer types | Pale ales, lagers, IPAs, alcohol-free beer |
| Beer brands | Beavertown, Brewdog, Peroni, Asahi |
| Beer quantities | Buy six-packs of beer instead of 12-packs or cases for a better chance of returning unopened items |
| Beer discounts | Buying in bulk can save up to 20% depending on the number of cases |
| Beer delivery | Delivery costs depend on the quantity ordered; free delivery over £60 at Beavertown |
| Beer returns | Beavertown does not accept returns on unopened cases; check the return policy and local laws for the retailer |
| Beer storage | Use a portable fridge or icebox to keep beers cold |
What You'll Learn
How much beer to buy
When it comes to weddings, only about a third of guests will want to drink beer, with the rest opting for wine or soft drinks. So, working out the perfect number of beers will require a bit of maths.
As a general formula, you can use: (Number of guests x number of hours) ÷ 3. For example, if you have 100 guests for a 4-hour reception, that's (100 x 4) ÷ 3, which equals 133 beers.
However, this is just an estimate. If you know your guests well and think they will drink more than their allocated number, it's a good idea to stock up.
For a 3- to 4-hour reception, it's recommended to have 4 to 6 beers per beer drinker. So, if you have 90 beer drinkers, that would be 450 beers in total, or 37.5 cases (round up to 38).
Another estimate suggests that for a 100-person wedding reception lasting three to four hours, you should purchase 150 bottles of beer. When the time increases to more than four hours, it's recommended to have 180 bottles of beer.
It's also worth noting that some online alcohol retailers have wedding alcohol calculators to help you work out how much beer, wine, and spirits you'll need.
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Where to buy in bulk
When it comes to buying beer in bulk for a wedding, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it is worth noting that some full-service wedding venues and caterers will purchase alcohol for the event, so it is essential to check with them before making any purchases. However, if you are required to bring your own beer, there are plenty of places to buy in bulk.
One option is to visit a liquor retailer or club store such as BJs, Costco, or Sam's Club. These stores often offer a wide variety of beer options and can provide significant savings when purchasing large quantities. It is worth noting that some Costco and Sam's Club locations allow non-members to purchase alcohol, so be sure to check the policies at your local store. Additionally, Costco offers a convenient return policy for unopened bottles, which can be helpful if you overestimate your needs.
Another option is to explore local options such as Beavertown Brewery, which offers a range of craft beers with discounts for bulk orders. They provide a wedding calculator to help you determine the right quantity for your event and offer free delivery for orders over £60. However, they may have restrictions on delivery locations, so it is essential to confirm that they can deliver to your venue.
If you prefer a more personalised experience, you can consult a local liquor store owner, who can provide guidance on popular drinks and offer bulk rates. They may also provide delivery and pick-up services, saving you the hassle of transporting the beer yourself.
Finally, if you are looking for a convenient online option, websites like Total Wine and Majestic Wine offer a wide selection of beers and other alcoholic beverages. They also provide resources such as wedding alcohol calculators and party drinks calculators to help you estimate the right quantities for your event.
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Saving money on bulk orders
Choose a DIY Wedding Bar
Planning your own wedding bar can save you a lot of money. When you purchase your own alcohol, you have more control over the cost per bottle, and you can save massively by avoiding the 40% markup that many event spaces charge for alcohol.
Find a Venue that Allows Outside Alcohol
Stay away from country clubs and hotels as they have a different type of licensing. Private venues and reception halls generally allow outside alcohol.
Avoid Pre-Set Packages
Pre-set packages at hotels and country clubs can be very expensive, and they may not be able to offer the specific brands your guests like.
Use a Wedding Alcohol Calculator
Use a wedding alcohol calculator to work out how much alcohol you need. This will help you avoid buying too much, and it will also ensure you don't run out.
Shop at Discount Alcohol Stores
Shop at stores that offer discounted alcohol, such as BevMo, Trader Joe's, and Costco. Costco, for example, sells many name-brand liquors under its Kirkland Signature store brand.
Take Advantage of Bulk Discounts
Some stores offer bulk discounts on wine, so you can save money by buying in large quantities.
Skip the Champagne Toast
Champagne toasts are less common these days, and you can save money by opting for a cava (a sparkling wine from Spain) instead.
Choose Beer and Wine
People are not going to turn their noses up at free alcohol. If you are set on spirits, go for large-sized bottles that will save you money in the long run.
Offer Signature Cocktails
If you decide to add hard liquor to the menu, offering a couple of signature drinks can be a way to keep costs down. Rather than stocking a full open bar, offer a few signature cocktails that give guests a hard option.
Return Unopened Bottles
Make sure to ask your liquor retailer about their return policy. Many stores will accept returns on unopened, unchilled bottles of wine, beer, and spirits.
Book a Free Consultation
Book a free consultation with a company that specializes in wedding alcohol, such as ABC's Concierge Service. They can help you figure out exactly what you need and how much you need based on your guest list.
Compare Prices
Compare prices at different stores before making your purchase. You may be able to find the same products for lower prices at different retailers.
Plan Ahead
Don't wait until the last minute to buy your alcohol. Plan ahead and look for sales or discounts. By giving yourself time to shop around, you can save money on your bulk order.
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Delivery options
When it comes to buying beer in bulk for your wedding, there are several delivery options to consider. Firstly, you can opt for standard delivery, which typically comes with a small fee. Some retailers, like Beavertown Brewery, offer free standard delivery for orders over a certain amount. You can also choose next-day delivery if you need the beer urgently, but this usually comes at an additional cost. When planning your delivery, make sure your venue is accessible for large deliveries. Beavertown Brewery, for example, requires ample space for bulk deliveries and cannot deliver to difficult-to-reach locations like flats or narrow roads.
If you're purchasing from a local liquor store, they may offer delivery and pick-up services, which can be extremely convenient for your wedding day. Majestic Wine, a UK-based retailer, offers free delivery for orders over £75, as well as free chiller-bin hire with a deposit.
When buying in bulk, it's important to plan ahead. Retailers like Beavertown Brewery recommend placing your bulk order at least a week in advance to ensure the beers are fresh for your special day. Additionally, consider the amount of storage space you'll need for the beer, especially if it needs to be kept cold. You may need to hire a portable fridge or ice boxes, depending on your venue's facilities.
Another option is to use a club store or retailer that offers discounts for large orders. Costco and Sam's Club are popular choices for buying alcohol in bulk, and they often allow returns of unopened and unchilled bottles, which can be helpful if you overestimate your needs. However, check your local laws and the store's return policies before making a purchase, as these can vary.
Finally, if you're supplying the alcohol for your wedding, consider hiring a professional bartending service to help you craft drinks for your guests. They can elevate the cocktail experience and ensure your guests enjoy their drinks responsibly.
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Chilling the beer
Traditional Methods
If you're going for a traditional approach, an ice bucket is a great option. To maximise its potential, remember to stir the beers occasionally to circulate the cold liquid and cool the bottles evenly. You can also add salt to the water to lower the freezing temperature, causing the ice to melt and chill the beer faster. This method takes around 15 minutes.
Another simple method is to wrap the beer bottles or cans in a damp cloth or paper towel and then place them in the freezer. As the water evaporates, it draws heat away from the beer, resulting in a quicker chill. This method also takes about 15 minutes.
Innovative Tools
If you want to try something more modern, there are various innovative tools available for quickly chilling beer. Beer sticks, for example, are a great way to keep your beer cold without diluting it. Can coolers are another option, designed to keep your beer cold for several hours, making them ideal for long wedding events.
Quick Chill Methods
If you need to chill your beer quickly, right before the wedding, there are some quick methods you can try. One option is to use a Chillsner beer cooler stick, which you can place in the freezer or a cooler until it reaches the desired temperature, and then simply slide it into your beer.
Another quick method is to chill your beer with compressed air. Hold a bottle of compressed air upside down and spray the side of the beer bottle or can until frost forms.
Maintaining Cold Temperature
Maintaining a cold temperature throughout the wedding event is crucial. Pre-chilling your cooler with ice before adding your beers is a good start. When you add the beers, bury them under ice and sprinkle with salt to keep them colder for longer. Keep the cooler in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight, to prevent the ice from melting too quickly.
By following these tips, you can ensure your wedding guests will be greeted with perfectly chilled beers, creating a memorable experience for everyone.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of beer you should buy depends on the number of guests, the duration of the wedding, and the drinking habits of your guests. As a general rule, only about a third of wedding guests will want to drink beer. You can use an online calculator, such as the one provided by Beavertown Brewery, to estimate the quantity of beer required.
There are several options for purchasing beer in bulk for a wedding. Some popular choices include Costco, Total Wine, and Beavertown Brewery. Costco and Total Wine offer the advantage of returns on unopened items. Additionally, consider checking local liquor stores, as they may provide bulk rates and delivery services.
It is recommended to purchase beer at least a week in advance to ensure freshness and timely delivery. However, it is best to wait until you have the final guest count before placing your order, which is typically once all RSVPs are received.
The return policy may vary depending on the retailer and your location. Some stores, like Costco and Total Wine, allow returns of unopened items. Beavertown Brewery, on the other hand, does not accept returns on unopened cases of beer. It is essential to check the return policies before making your purchase.
When buying beer in bulk, consider the season and your guests' preferences. For example, lighter beers and craft beers may be more suitable for a summer wedding. Additionally, ensure you have adequate refrigeration or portable fridges to keep the beer cold. Finally, don't forget to include alcohol-free options for designated drivers and guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
