You had me at merlot...

An open bar at a wedding reception can range from simple wine and beer to specialty crafted cocktails. The decision is up to the couple, but generally, a fair selection of beer, wine, and liquor to accommodate a wide variety of taste buds and drinking preferences is the norm.

Couples are often at a loss when it comes to providing alcohol at their wedding reception so we took some time to talk with Jacklyn Wodicka, who along with Abi Bradford, own Crafted Spirits, a mobile bartending service, to answer some of the most common questions.

Jacklyn serving up some dancing juice!

PC: How does a couple determine the quantity of alcohol to purchase for a wedding reception?

JW: As your bartenders, we will help you calculate how much alcohol you will need based on the number of guests and the type of alcohol you will be serving.

PC: Can a couple order the alcohol themselves? Where?

JW: You can buy your alcohol at any state liquor store, grocery store, or private vendor. Mobile bartenders can not provide your alcohol.

PC: Can unopened alcohol be returned to the place of purchase?

JW: In the state of Ohio, all liquor sales are final and cannot be returned.

PC: If there is alcohol at a wedding reception, are couples required to hire security?

JW: Most venues will require law enforcement to be present when alcohol is served. Some provide their own and are included with the venue. I recommend speaking with your venue about their rules. As the bartenders, we do not provide or recommend anyone specifically.

Here are some general estimates for serving alcohol:

1 bottle of wine = 5 servings

1 case = 12 bottles

750 ml bottle of liquor = 18 servings

1 keg = 165 servings of beer

When looking to create signature drinks for your big day, think clever names and seasonal flavors. The options are endless - they can even match your wedding colors! Have your bartender make them in a big batch so they're easy to pour and serve - it helps avoid a line at the bar and is cost effective. If you're on a tight budget, consider serving wine and beer along with a seasonal batch of sangria for your guests to enjoy. Cheers!

Check out Crafted Spirits for mobile bartending services. They have a sweet pallet bar that they bring to events - perfect for your rustic wedding. Contact Perfectly Celebrated to manage your wedding day so you can relax and enjoy it!