Good questions.
Everything people ask before they book. Don't see yours? Send it with your inquiry.
Do you offer custom packages?
Yes. Start from any package and add hours, bartenders or moments in the instant estimate. For 150+ guests, a second bar or corporate events, The Bespoke is built around your plan.
Can you work at our own bar without the cart?
Yes. Behind Your Bar is bartending service at your home bar or venue bar: $345 for one bartender for 4 hours, or $595 with two.
How far ahead should I book?
For summer and fall weddings, 8 to 10 months ahead is safest. Parties and corporate events can often book a few weeks out. Send your date and we'll tell you right away.
How do I hold my date?
A 30% non-refundable retainer reserves your date. The balance is due 7 days before your event.
Is gratuity included?
We never add gratuity automatically. If you want a tip jar on the bar, just say so.
Can we do a tasting?
A tasting for two is included with The Grand Reserve. For other packages it's $75, credited to your balance when you book.
Do you bring the alcohol?
No. You buy it, so there's no liquor markup and you keep anything left over. We send a shopping list with exact quantities for your menu, guest count and hours.
How much alcohol should I buy?
A good rule is 2 drinks per guest in the first hour, then 1 per guest each hour after. For wine, plan about 1 bottle per 4 to 5 guests, and 1 bottle of sparkling per 7 to 8 guests for a toast. Try the bar calculator, and we'll do the exact math for you.
Is ice included?
Yes, in every cart package, and it can be added to Behind Your Bar. We plan about 1.5 lb per guest and more for hot outdoor parties.
Do I keep the leftovers?
Yes. Anything unopened or left over is yours.
Do you need a liquor license?
Because you provide the alcohol and serve it free to your guests, we provide bartending service only and never sell alcohol. If your event sells tickets, drink tickets or has a cash bar, contact us first, because a licensed seller is required.
How many bartenders do I need?
About one bartender per 50 to 75 guests keeps lines short. That's why The Society and The Grand Reserve include two.
Can you do mocktails?
Always. Every cocktail on your menu comes with a zero-proof twin at no extra cost, and it gets equal space on the menu sign.
Are your bartenders certified?
Yes. Both of us are BASSET certified, the Illinois responsible alcohol service training required for anyone serving alcohol.
Will you check IDs?
Yes. We serve guests 21 and over only, check ID when in doubt, and won't serve anyone who has had too much.
Does setup count toward my hours?
No. Setup and breakdown are on us and don't count toward your service hours.
What do you need at the venue?
About 8 by 8 feet of level space, access 60 to 90 minutes before service, and an outlet if possible. Outdoors, we need shade or a tent. Check that your venue allows outside bartenders.
Where do you travel?
Chicago and the suburbs. Travel is free within 30 miles, then $1.25 per mile.
Let's set up your bar.
Send your date, guest count and venue. We'll check availability and send you a quote.