Discover the different types of wedding bars in Austin and get tips on choosing the perfect option to match your style and celebration.

Planning your dream wedding in Austin? Beyond stunning venues and delicious food, your wedding bar is a key element of the celebration. There’s no better way to keep the party alive than by offering your guests an exceptional drink experience. But what type of wedding bar is right for you? We get this question so often that we just had to provide A Guide to Wedding Bar Options in Austin.

This guide will explore the different types of wedding bars, the pros and cons of each, and share 10 factors to consider when planning your wedding bar and alcohol selection. Plus, you’ll discover why The Waters Point near Austin is the go-to choice for an unforgettable wedding experience.

Before we begin, we’d like to share a few details to help you make the most of your experience. As a locally owned wedding venue, we prioritize creating unforgettable moments for our guests. Our goal is to exceed your expectations with extraordinary service, clear communication and transparent pricing. While you’re here, take a moment to explore our wedding venue portfolio or Instagram for gorgeous images & candid content from real weddings, browse our lodging options, and review our pricing brochure. If you like what you see, we warmly invite you to schedule a tour of Waters Point wedding venue and resort to see everything we have to offer.

Want to learn more about making The Waters Point your wedding venue? Contact us today. We’d love to help you plan your perfect day! If a Texas Hill Country wedding is your dream, we’ve got the perfect venue to bring it all together—The Waters Point Wedding Venue, nestled near Austin and Dripping Springs.

Types of Wedding Bars in Austin

Choosing the right type of wedding bar is crucial for balancing your budget, guest experience, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

Standard Open Bar

An open bar means drinks are complimentary for your guests throughout the event.

Pros

• Guests can enjoy unlimited drinks, creating an elevated sense of celebration.
• Keeps the event stress-free for guests since they don’t need to bring cash or cards.

Cons

• Can be expensive, especially for large weddings.
• You may end up paying for drinks that go untouched.

Best for

Couples who want to treat their guests to a full celebration, regardless of budget.

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Limited Open Bar

Here, guests can order from a pre-selected list of beverages (e.g., specific cocktails, beer, and wine).

Pros

• More budget-friendly than a full open bar.
• You maintain control over the drink menu, minimizing waste.

Cons

• Some guests may find the drink selection too limited.
• May lack the “luxury” feel of a standard open bar.

Best for

Weddings with budget constraints or couples who want a curated selection of options.

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Premium Open Bar

This option is similar to a standard open bar but includes high-end, top-shelf liquor and craft cocktails.

Pros

• Ultra-luxurious experience; ideal for impressing guests.
• Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts who want unique, high-quality options.

Cons

• The most expensive option, as premium alcohol is costly.

Best for

Couples hosting upscale or black-tie weddings.

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Cash Bar

Guests pay for their own drinks at a cash bar, similar to a standard bar.

Pros

• Significantly reduces the couple’s expenses for beverages.
• Easy to manage from a budgetary perspective.

Cons

• Might feel awkward or less hospitable for wedding guests.
• Some guests may skip drinks to avoid spending.

Best for

Weddings with tight budgets or couples who want to minimize alcohol-related costs.

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Beer and Wine Bar

Serves only beer, wine, and occasionally soft drinks, skipping hard liquor.

Pros

• Affordable and widely appealing to guests.
• Reduces the risk of overserving guests with strong drinks.

Cons

• Limited options may disappoint liquor drinkers.

Best for

Casual, rustic, or outdoor weddings where simplicity is part of the charm.

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On Consumption Bar

With this option, you pay for drinks based on actual consumption rather than a fixed package.

Pros

• Great for small weddings; you only pay for what’s consumed.
• Helps avoid over-ordering alcohol.

Cons

• Hard to predict the total cost upfront.
• May require more careful monitoring through the event.

Best for

Smaller, intimate gatherings or couples who want maximum flexibility.

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10 Things to Consider When Planning Your Wedding Bar

No matter what bar type you choose, here’s what you should think about while planning your wedding bar setup:

1. Guest Count – Estimate how many guests are likely to drink to help plan quantities.
2. Venue Regulations – Ensure the venue allows outside alcohol or specific bar setups.
3. Budget – Determine your alcohol allocation and choose a type of bar that fits your finances.
4. Drink Menu – Offer a mix of crowd favorites and unique options that suit your tastes.
5. Bartender or Self-Service – Decide whether to hire professional bartenders or opt for a DIY setup.
6. Timing – Does your event need alcohol throughout, or only for a designated period?
7. Specialty Cocktails – Consider crafting a signature drink to personalize the experience.
8. Design and Decor – Align the bar’s visual setup with your wedding theme.
9. Transportation – Arrange designated drivers or shuttles to ensure guests’ safety.
10. Leftovers – Plan ahead for what will happen to any leftover alcohol.

10 Reasons to Choose The Waters Edge Austin for Your Wedding

If you’re planning a wedding in Austin, look no further than The Waters Edge Austin. Here’s why it’s the perfect choice for your big day:

1. Breathtaking Views – Enjoy panoramic lakefront scenery that’s perfect for photos.
2. Flexible Packages – Tailored to suit your event size and budget.
3. Experienced Team – A seasoned staff will ensure attention to every detail.
4. Custom Bar Options – Choose from any of the bar types mentioned for your perfect celebration.
5. Indoor and Outdoor Spaces – Accommodates both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.
6. Preferred Vendors – Access to top-tier caterers and bartenders in Austin.
7. Stress-Free Setup – Their team handles the logistics so you can focus on your day.
8. Commitment to Sustainability – Eco-friendly practices ensure your wedding is beautiful and responsible.
9. Exclusive Deals – Discounts available on bulk alcohol orders or vendor partnerships.
10. Community Connection – Celebrate in a space loved by local couples and families.

Your Austin Wedding Bar Awaits

Choosing the perfect wedding bar type is essential for creating your dream celebration. Whether you’re hosting an extravagant soirée with a premium open bar or an intimate gathering with an on-consumption bar, options abound for couples in Austin.

And when it’s time to bring your vision to life, The Waters Point near Austin is here to turn your wedding into an unforgettable celebration. Need some help planning your wedding at the perfect wedding venue location? Look no further than The Waters Point in Wimberley, Texas. Their team is here to help you make every step of your wedding journey nothing short of magical.

If you’re looking for the perfect wedding venue near Dripping Springs and Austin, we invite you and your fiancé to schedule a tour. Let us show you around our stunning indoor and outdoor wedding spaces, designed to make your special day unforgettable. You can find us on Facebook & Instagram.

Our wedding venue is located a short drive from Austin Texas, 512-722-3848 13401 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley, TX, 78676