Planning an event involves countless details, but one of the biggest decisions is how to handle alcohol service. Whether you’re organizing a wedding, corporate gathering, or private party, deciding between a venue’s bar package or supplying your own wine can significantly impact your budget, guest experience, and overall event quality.

If you have the option to supply your own wine, you can control costs, curate a unique selection, and elevate the overall experience. Let’s break down the pros of supplying your own wine and how to plan effectively.

Why Supplying Your Own Wine Is a Smart Choice

1. Cost Savings Without Sacrificing Quality

Many venues charge high markups on wine. By sourcing your own, you can save 30-50% compared to venue pricing.

2. A Curated Wine Selection That Matches Your Event

Choosing your own wines allows you to match the menu, theme, and guest preferences for a personalized experience.

3. Higher-Quality Wine, No Compromises

Bar packages often include mass-market wines. Selecting your own gives you access to boutique, small-production, and premium wines.

4. Avoid Over-Paying for Unused Alcohol

With a bar package, you pay a flat rate per guest, regardless of how much they drink. Supplying your own wine gives you better control over inventory.

What to Consider When Supplying Your Own Wine

1. How Much Wine to Buy

Consider what your beverages will be - will there also be cocktails or beer? Do you want a sparkling set aside for any special toasts? The general rule of thumb is 2 drinks for the first hour and then about 1 drink per person per hour after. If just beer and wine, wine has a slight edge - about 60% of guests prefer wine. For a four-hour event with 100 guests, you’ll need about 5- 6 cases of wine, toasting wine aside. 

2. Wine Serving & Glassware Needs

Ensure you have the proper glassware or alternative serving options for a seamless experience. Catering and rental companies often have glassware in their rental catalogs. Additionally, bartending companies (where you supply the booze) often have glass rental options or upgraded plastics. 

3. Who Will Pour the Wine?

Hiring a certified bartender ensures professional service, controlled pours, and an enhanced guest experience. Bartending companies often carry their own insurance and are trained on proper alcohol service. Licensed bartenders can manage beverage service, but also control pour size. We highly advise bartenders to help ensure responsible alcohol service. 

4. Proper Chilling & Storage

Wine should be served at the right temperature to preserve flavors. Use wine buckets with ice or dedicated storage areas. Catering and bartending services are aware of the needs for proper wine service. If bringing your own alcohol to the venue, avoid storing wine in warm temperatures and in sunlight - as that can and cook the wine. 

5. Venue Policies & Corkage Fees

Always check if the venue allows outside alcohol and confirm any corkage fees. Many venues that allow outside alcohol require a bartender for responsible alcohol service. 

6. Don’t Forget Non-Alcoholic Options

Offer sparkling water, mocktails, and fresh juices to accommodate all guests. Catering companies and some bartending companies also offer these in their packages. If you are able to supply your own, it's nice to know that these unopened cases of non-alcoholic beverages can be returned =. 

7. What to Do With Leftover Wine?

Unlike bar packages, any unopened bottles you supply can be taken home or saved for future events. Unfortunately in California, alcohol cannot be returned. 

Final Thoughts: Is Supplying Your Own Wine Worth It?

For those looking to create a personalized, cost-effective, and high-quality event experience, supplying your own wine is a fantastic option. You get to curate a memorable selection, ensure better wine quality, and save money—all while giving guests an elevated drinking experience.

If you’re planning an event and need help choosing the perfect wines, Sippin Somm Wines offers expertly curated selections, tasting notes, and wine event planning assistance.

Looking for expert wine recommendations for your next event? Contact us today! We offer consultations with wine tastings.