Style Your Bar Like a Pro
Photo Credit: Sarah Jual Photo
It is no secret that the bar is one of the most visited spots at a wedding. Because it is such a hot spot, we ALWAYS recommend investing a little extra time and energy into styling it. Over the years, we’ve determined the top 5 things to consider when designing your outdoor wedding bar.
Continue reading for our full breakdown...
Location
When you are planning the location of your bar, there are a few things to take into consideration; the backdrop, the angle, and the placement. Look for a picturesque backdrop that not only photographs well but also keeps guests from seeing the supplies and boxes that will inevitably be stored behind the bar. We also always try to angle the bar towards the guests entrance or natural approach. It’s never a bad idea to make it a focal point that draws guests into the party. To avoid the expense of two bars, we suggest you strategically place the bar somewhere that is convenient for both the cocktail hour and reception. Also, make sure you are mindful about placing the bar in close proximity to the dance floor. That way the guests won't be too dispersed when it’s time to party!
Physical Structure
Bar Front
There are so many different bar front options out there, so you want to make sure you are choosing one that will best fit your wedding style. Some of our favorite go-to’s include:
Wood bar front - matches boho tropical or rustic
White bar front - matches modern elegant or classic romantic
If you are interested in embellishing your bar facade, consider ordering a custom sign or decal for the front. You can opt for standard fun signage options like “cheers” or “bottoms up!” or get creative with a custom monogram decal. Whatever you choose, make it personal and fun.
Covering
Don’t forget to prepare your bar for various weather conditions. When it comes to outdoor events, you never know if it is going to rain or shine. We always suggest something that covers all the bases. Depending on the aesthetic you are trying to achieve, you might opt for a small decorative tent, canvas market umbrella or even a weather proofed dining canopy. Aside from providing cover from rain and sun for your decor and bartender, having some sort of covering gives you a structure to install necessary overhead bar lighting.
Storage
Once you’ve figured out the front and covering of your bar, you want to think of the type storage works best for your style and budget. We always recommend having one 6’ table with linen on either side of the bar front to create a ‘U’ shape. That way the bartender can hide liquor boxes, coolers and other not so pretty details underneath, while the top of the tables can be used for displaying bottles and glassware. If you want a more elevated look, consider renting barback shelves. Barback shelves are a perfect alternative because they are practical and create an additional focal point you can utilize when styling the bar.
Bar Menu
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Who doesn’t love a cute bar menu that lists everything you are serving?! Not only does a bar menu act as a functional and decorative element, but it also means the bartender doesn’t need to display the liquor selection on the bar top. As designers, non color coordinated bottles and labels on the bar top are a huge pet peeve. Bar menus are also a great opportunity to get creative with the bar design. Some of our go-to options include; custom graphic designs in beautiful frames, cascading fabric menus with hand lettered calligraphy, and watercolor drink illustrations. Regardless of the bar menu design, just make sure you place it where everyone can read it when standing in line.
Bar Accessories
If you are all about detail and personalization, you don’t want to forget the smaller bar elements that can tie your overall design together. Accessories such as napkins, straws, garnishes, decorative drink dispensers, garnishes, containers and the bartenders tools can all be hand selected to fit the overall design. Etsy and Amazon have a wide range of fun straws to choose from. In the past we’ve done fun flamingo and all gold foil straws. We also often have clients order custom napkins that have their name and wedding date on it; or have a list of fun facts about them as a couple. The options are endless! These smaller elements can give you a lot of bang for your buck when it comes to styling the bar.
Flowers and Candles
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Last but not least, we highly recommend incorporating flowers and candles. There are so many ways to decorate your bar with flowers. You can either go for a simple look with a large floral arrangement on the bar top; or make your bar the center of attention by decorating it with a garland. If you don’t have the budget for additional flowers, we recommend repurposing the ceremony arrangements. Whatever you decide to do, don’t forget to add candles for ambiance.
We hope this breakdown helps you get creative when designing your wedding bar. Although there are several moving parts to decide on, it doesn’t take much to design something stylish and memorable.
If you would like to book a one-on-one design consulting session with us to hash out the details of your wedding decor, head to the link here to learn more!