I would like to cover the expense for the wine and beer at the wedding reception but would like the mixed drinks to be a cash bar. Is this out of the question? How would that be conveyed to the guests? I was thinking that I would have an insert with the wedding invitations, reception invitation and reply card a map with points of interest and hotel accomodations and could mention it there or would I put "cash bar" on the reception cards? I wouldn't want them to think they we weren't covering the expense of any alcohol.
Having a cash bar is not considered appropriate for weddings, sorry. Can you imagine being invited to a dinner party and being asked to pay for your beverage? You would surely think your host to be impolite. This holds true for your wedding where you, or your parents, are the hosts.
Just as you would certainly not offer your guests a chicken dish, telling them they could have the steak if they pay for it, you should only offer your guests what you can afford to pay for yourself. Only serving wine and beer (and/or champagne) is a very nice alternative since most people wishing to have an alcoholic beverage will like either of these. Plus, you have less worry about Uncle Harry getting too drunk to drive or young cousin Sue spoiling your wedding with inappropriate behavior.
You can host a beautiful, tasteful wedding without having an open bar. Many couples today are choosing this option.
Good Luck! Top Wedding Questions Forum Moderator - "Write your sorrows in the sand, your blessings in stone".
Wedding Reception Etiquette
