Wedding Alcohol Calculator

Our calculator applies time-tested hospitality industry formulas based on the general rule that guests consume roughly one drink per hour during a reception. First, beer consumption is calculated by multiplying the number of beer drinkers by the number of reception hours. Wine is divided evenly between red and white, estimating roughly one standard bottle per 2.15 wine drinkers per evening. Champagne totals depend on your toast style, dividing champagne drinkers by a factor determined by whether you are pouring full glasses or simply offering a brief toast. Finally, spirit quantities like vodka are scaled to account for cocktail drinkers.

Imagine you are hosting a 5-hour evening reception for 100 guests, with 40 beer drinkers, 40 wine drinkers, 10 champagne toast participants, and 10 spirit enthusiasts. For beer, we multiply 40 beer drinkers by 5 hours, resulting in 200 standard beers or roughly 8 standard cases. For wine, taking 40 wine drinkers divided by 2.15 yields about 19 total bottles, which splits evenly into roughly 10 bottles of red wine and 9 bottles of white wine. For the champagne toast, assuming 10 participants with standard glass pours, you will need about 2 bottles. Lastly, for vodka and spirits, estimating half a bottle per spirit drinker yields 5 bottles. This clear breakdown ensures your bar stays fully stocked from the first toast to the final dance.

Always factor in your crowd demographic, as groups with higher energy levels or younger demographics often consume more beer and spirits, while older crowds tend to favor wine. It is also wise to buy from vendors who allow you to return unopened cases of wine and liquor. Finally, remember to double-check whether your venue requires you to supply mixers, ice, and garnishes alongside your core alcohol purchases.