Crafting Your Perfect Event: A Guide to Selecting and Customising Bar Hire

By Ross | 1 Entertainment on Dec 11 2023

The bar holds a special place in any event, often shaping the social atmosphere and creating lasting impressions on guests. Whether it's an elegant wedding, a casual birthday party, or a glamorous corporate event, a well-crafted drinks experience can add an extraordinary touch to your celebration.

Having a fully-equipped and well-designed bar at your wedding, conference, or other gathering allows guests to share drinks, stories, and laughter while marvelling at the exquisite bar setting. Furthermore, a bar serves as a hub for conversation and socialisation, fostering a sense of community among attendees. Understanding the intricacies of bar hire can help you turn an ordinary celebration into an unforgettable experience with a dazzling drinks menu, exceptional service, and bespoke visual elements.

In this article, we will navigate the different bar styles available, from portable and themed bars to bespoke creations, ensuring there's an option for every occasion. We'll then delve into crucial factors to consider when choosing the perfect bar for your event and explore custom options to add a personal touch.

Next, we’ll examine the significance of skilled, professional bar staff and how they can elevate your celebration. Finally, learn how 1 Entertainment's diverse range of bar services enhances the overall event experience thanks to their expertise in planning and execution.

With this informative guide, you'll be able to make educated choices when it comes to selecting, customising, and staffing your event bar. By partnering with 1 Entertainment, your event will undoubtedly be the toast of the town.

1. Types of Bars for Hire

The foundation of an unforgettable drinks experience at any event begins with selecting the ideal bar style that suits your celebration. Explore a range of possibilities:

- Portable bars: Offering convenience and flexibility, portable bars can easily be set up in virtually any location. They come in various styles and materials, such as rustic wooden bars or sleek metal ones, making them a versatile option for any event.

- Themed bars: For events with a specific theme or style, consider a themed bar that reflects the overall aesthetic of your celebration. From vintage speakeasies to beach-inspired tiki bars, a themed bar can add a unique and immersive touch to your event.

- Cocktail bars: Classic cocktails never go out of style, and a dedicated cocktail bar can provide a sophisticated and elegant twist to your drinks selection. Professional bartenders will impress your guests with their mixology skills, creating both timeless and innovative concoctions.

- DIY/custom bars: If you have a clear vision for your event's ambience, opt for a custom bar that brings your creative ideas to life. Personalise the bar's design, materials, and layout to craft a one-of-a-kind experience for your guests.

2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bar

Selecting an appropriate bar for your event involves careful consideration of various factors, ensuring harmony across your event's components:

- Event theme and style: The theme or style of your event should both inspire and influence your choice of bar. From rustic weddings to Gatsby-esque galas, the chosen bar must seamlessly integrate with the aesthetic of your celebration.

- Space requirements: It’s important to acknowledge the available space in your venue when selecting a bar. Ensure that the bar's dimensions and layout can comfortably fit within the event space, whilst allowing room for guests to move freely.

- Guest demographics and preferences: The attendees of your event will shape your drink offerings and the overall bar experience. Consider your guests' age, background, and preferences when selecting a bar style to ensure a tailored drinks experience for all.

3. Bar Customisation: Beyond the Aesthetics

Strong attention to detail in customisation creates an extraordinary bar experience:

- Custom cocktails: Collaborate with your bar provider to create signature cocktails for your event. These bespoke beverages can reflect the theme, style, or even colours of your celebration, providing a unique and personalised touch.

- Drinks menu selection: A well-curated drinks menu reflects the diverse tastes and preferences of your guests. Offer a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including craft beers, fine wines, and refreshing mocktails.

- Branding and personalisation: Create a memorable impression by incorporating your event logo or personalised design elements into the bar's visual décor. Subtle touches, such as monogrammed bar mats or branded coasters, can elevate the bar's appeal.

4. The Importance of Experienced Bar Staff

A professionally run bar can leave a lasting impression, and hiring experienced staff is key:

- Professionalism: Skilled bar staff exude professionalism, ensuring seamless operation and a consistently high standard of service throughout your event.

- Expert bartending skills: Knowledgeable bartenders can create an impressive array of classic and inventive drinks whilst catering to guests' individual preferences, demonstrating extraordinary flair and skill.

- Efficient customer service: Experienced bar staff provide quick, efficient service, guaranteeing guests' minimal waiting times and ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

5. How 1 Entertainment Can Deliver the Perfect Bar Experience

At 1 Entertainment, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of bar hire options tailored to your event’s unique requirements. Combined with our expertise in event planning and management, we guarantee an exceptional bar experience:

- Comprehensive bar hire options: Choose from our extensive selection of bar styles and customisation possibilities to create a personalised and unforgettable drinks experience.

- Industry expertise and experience: With years of industry knowledge and proficiency, our team will expertly guide you through the process of selecting, customising, and integrating your event bar, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for every guest.

- Seamless event integration: Our dedication to quality and attention to detail ensures that your chosen bar will flawlessly integrate into your event’s design, creating a harmonious and visually pleasing atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Through careful selection, customisation, and staffing of a bar, an extraordinary drinks experience can be created, shaping the atmosphere and memories of any event. With insightful guidance from 1 Entertainment's expert team, you can confidently craft a drinks experience that entices and impresses every guest, leaving them with unforgettable memories.

By understanding and employing the techniques, considerations, and expertise detailed in this article, your event's bar will undoubtedly be the star attraction at your celebration, creating a show-stopping experience that your guests will cherish for years to come.