How to Stock Your Own Bar for a Wedding Reception

Everyone knows wedding planning is stressful! Arranging the wedding reception details and logistics can be overwhelming-not to mention expensive. One way to control your wedding reception costs is to stock your own bar at the reception facility, rather than hiring a professional bartender. If you choose to do this, you'll need to know what type of liquor, mixers, gadgets and garnishes you'll need to create an array of cocktails from which your guests can choose. Here are the essential ingredients and items you will need at a minimum to set up your bar for your wedding reception.

Plan your wedding reception bar -- Hire a family member or friend: You don't need to hire a professional to man the bar at your wedding reception, but since it's you and your fiancé's special day, you don't want to be doling out drinks to your guests all night. Instead, hire a friend or a relative to operate the bar who has restaurant or bartending experience. You'll need to pay your friend for the bartending duties, but it will be much cheaper than getting a professional.

Plan your wedding reception bar -- Get essential liquor: Hundreds of liquors are available and unless you're Daddy Warbucks, you can't possibly have all of them at your bar. It's critical to pick the essential liquor types so your bartender can make the most popular drinks. Keep these types on hand: gin, brandy, scotch, tequila, rum, vodka, wine and a variety of bottled beers.

Plan your wedding reception bar -- Essential mixers: Unless you want half of your guests passed out on the floor before the dollar dance starts, you'll need to provide mixers. Popular mixers include club soda, Coke, Diet Coke and orange juice. Mixers are cheaper than the liquors, so feel free to add more of these as your budget allows. Other options to consider are grenadine, ice cream, half-and-half, Tabasco and coffee.

Plan your wedding reception bar -- Pretty garnishes: Although not necessary for drinks at your reception bar, the garnishes make your drinks look pretty. Have the following on hand: salt, crystallized sugar, celery, olives and lemons.

Plan your wedding reception bar -- Gadgets and tools: Drinks can't be served without the proper tools! Don't leave your bartender high and dry--ensure you have the following on hand for your wedding reception bar: blender, bottle opener, cocktail shaker, strainer, stirrers and cocktail napkins.

Of course, don't forgot the obvious-ice and glasses!