Drinks often represent 10 to 20% of the catering line. Your caterer will offer open bar, consumption tab, or counted bottles: three very different pricing models.
Three models
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Open bar: per-guest flat fee (often +€25–45/head), unlimited on a set window
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Capped consumption: you set a global amount (e.g. €2,000), billed on actual use
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Per bottle: wine and champagne ordered case by case, soft drinks self-serve
Quick math
Estimate 4 to 6 alcoholic drinks per adult over a 6-hour evening.
Open bar: 80 guests × €35 = €2,800 flat.
Consumption: 80 × 5 drinks × €6 = €2,400 if moderate; up to €3,500 if heavy.
Tipping point: open bar wins if you expect more than 5 average drinks per person.
Always ask what is included: signature cocktails, champagne at apéritif, water and soft drinks, bar closing time.
How Fiancé can help
Fiancé tracks expenses, deposits, and due dates in one budget. Intimate, classic, and prestige templates give you a starting split you refine as quotes arrive. Try the budget calculator without an account, then carry the logic into the app. Disclaimer
Please be advised that the contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and not professional advice. The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, financial, or tax advice. The content reflects the opinions of the author and/or the Drakkar Software team. Drakkar Software does not guarantee any particular outcome.
About the author
Camille
Budget, guests & seating expert