How to Choose the Right Bartending Service for Your Denver Event

Planning an event in Denver and need professional bar service? Choosing the right bartending company can make or break your celebration. Whether you're hosting a corporate gala, wedding reception, or private party, the quality of your bar service directly impacts your guests' experience. Here's what to look for when hiring bartenders for your Denver event.

1. Verify Professional Credentials

Look for bartenders with Tips certification, general liability insurance coverage, and experience working events similar to yours. Professional bartending services should employ fully insured, trained staff—not just hobbyists looking for side work.

Ask potential providers about their certifications, how long they've been in business, and whether they carry adequate insurance. This protects you from liability and ensures you're working with legitimate professionals who take their craft seriously.

2. Assess Their Cocktail Expertise

Not all bartenders are created equal. If you want elevated craft cocktails, look for teams with experience at high-end cocktail bars or those who've competed in bartending competitions. Ask about their cocktail menu, technique, and whether they can create custom signature drinks for your event.

For simpler beer and wine service, experienced event staff may be sufficient. But if you're planning a cocktail-forward event, expertise matters. The difference between a well-balanced Old Fashioned and a mediocre one is immediately noticeable to your guests.

3. Understand What's Included in the Package

Some bartending services provide complete bar setup, glassware, mixers, and ingredients. Others only provide bartenders and expect you to supply everything else. Make sure you understand exactly what's included in your package—and what you'll need to provide yourself.

Ask about:

• Bar equipment and tools

• Glassware or cups

• Ice and ice storage

• Mixers, juices, and garnishes

• Setup and breakdown

• Shopping list assistance

Knowing what's included helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises on event day.

4. Check Reviews and References

Read reviews from past clients, especially those who hosted similar events. Look for consistent feedback about professionalism, cocktail quality, timeliness, and how the team handled unexpected situations.

Don't just check star ratings—read the actual reviews. Pay attention to comments about communication, flexibility, and whether the bartenders enhanced the overall event experience. A company with glowing reviews from corporate events might be perfect for your company party, while one praised for wedding service knows how to handle that specific dynamic.

5. Ask About Staffing Ratios

A good bartending service will recommend the appropriate number of bartenders based on your guest count and service style. Generally, you need:

• 1 bartender per 50-75 guests for full cocktail service

• 1 bartender per 100+ guests for beer and wine service

• Additional support staff for events over 150 guests

Understaffing leads to long lines and frustrated guests. Overstaffing wastes your budget. Experienced providers know how to staff appropriately and can explain their recommendations.

6. Consider Their Service Style

Does your event need fast, efficient service or slow, craft-focused cocktails with tableside presentation? Make sure the bartending company's style matches your event's vibe.

Corporate events often require polished, professional service that keeps lines moving. Weddings might benefit from a more personalized approach with custom cocktails. Private parties can range from casual to upscale depending on your vision. The right bartending team adapts their style to fit your specific needs.

7. Get Transparent Pricing

Reputable bartending services provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Ask about:

• Hourly rates or per-person packages

• Minimum booking requirements

• Travel fees outside their standard service area

• Additional costs for equipment, glassware, or specialty ingredients

• Gratuity expectations

Transparent pricing lets you budget confidently and avoid awkward conversations later. If a company is vague about costs or reluctant to provide detailed quotes, that's a red flag.

Ready to Book Professional Bartending for Your Denver Event?

Choosing the right bartending service ensures your guests enjoy exceptional drinks and seamless service from start to finish. At Mobile Craft Bars, we bring award-winning bartenders from Denver's best cocktail bars directly to your venue—whether that's a downtown ballroom, mountain estate, or backyard celebration.

Our team handles everything from custom cocktail menu design to complete bar setup, so you can focus on enjoying your event. With transparent pricing, professional credentials, and a track record of five-star service, we make bar catering effortless.

Get a free quote today and discover why Denver's top companies and celebrated couples trust Mobile Craft Bars for their most important events.