Become a Bartender: Private Party Bartending Tips
Private parties are very profitable and fun to work. They are ideal for the person who wants to bartend occasionally for good money, but has a full time job. One of the biggest perks of working these events is the ability to network and make important contacts for other parties and job opportunities.
People who are looking to find a bartender for their private events usually pay very well because their event is important to them. It might be a graduation, reunion or business party. No matter the case, these people hired you to be a professional, and that's exactly what you need to be.
Before the event, it's important to discuss in person or over the phone some details and requirements about the event with the host:
First things first, what time does the event start?
It's critical that you plan for at least a half hour for set up before the event, and at least a half hour for clean up at the end of the event. This time needs to be negotiated in your pay.
Second, how many guests will be attending the event?
One bartender can generally handle serving up to 150 guests. If you find out there will be more, you will need to discuss with client possibly getting a second bartender to help you.
Third, how much will you get paid?
A normal going rate for a good private bartender is at least fifteen dollars an hour with the option of a tip jar. If no tips are allowed, then a tip at the end of the night from the client is custom.
Fourth, what are you expected to dress like during the event?
The standard dress for a bartender at a private party is black pants and shoes with a white shirt. Always ask to make sure, but if no dress code is discussed, black and white is customary.
Fifth, what's on the drink menu?
Ask what types of drinks will be served. Is the party serving beer, wine, mixed drinks, or specialty drinks? Make sure you know the mixtures of any specialty drinks and always carry your own wine and beer opener. Make sure the host has all the required liquor, beer and wine for you to make the appropriate drinks for the number of people attending the event.
Check in with the client or host when you first arrive to the party. Figure out where all the bar supplies are and know where you can get additional supplies in case you run out. Take an inventory of all liquor, beer, wine, mixers, etc beforehand so you can compare after the party is over. Cut up and organize two sets of garnishes, keeping one stored in a cool area for later when the initial has run out. Also, find out where the ice machine is and how to effectively shuttle more to your bar when you need it.
DO NOT drink or smoke while you are working. You need to be in control of the situation, and you are on the line if someone becomes to intoxicated. Let the host know of any problem guests so they can appropriately deal with any situations that may arise.
Clean up the bar area at the end of night. Take time to be as helpful as possible to the host so you get asked back and get a big tip!
Follow these guidelines and you, the host and the guests will have a great night. Make sure to have some cards made up with your info to pass on to contacts you meet, as well as to leave with the host because you will probably be asked back.
People who are looking to find a bartender for their private events usually pay very well because their event is important to them. It might be a graduation, reunion or business party. No matter the case, these people hired you to be a professional, and that's exactly what you need to be.
Before the event, it's important to discuss in person or over the phone some details and requirements about the event with the host:
First things first, what time does the event start?
It's critical that you plan for at least a half hour for set up before the event, and at least a half hour for clean up at the end of the event. This time needs to be negotiated in your pay.
Second, how many guests will be attending the event?
One bartender can generally handle serving up to 150 guests. If you find out there will be more, you will need to discuss with client possibly getting a second bartender to help you.
Third, how much will you get paid?
A normal going rate for a good private bartender is at least fifteen dollars an hour with the option of a tip jar. If no tips are allowed, then a tip at the end of the night from the client is custom.
Fourth, what are you expected to dress like during the event?
The standard dress for a bartender at a private party is black pants and shoes with a white shirt. Always ask to make sure, but if no dress code is discussed, black and white is customary.
Fifth, what's on the drink menu?
Ask what types of drinks will be served. Is the party serving beer, wine, mixed drinks, or specialty drinks? Make sure you know the mixtures of any specialty drinks and always carry your own wine and beer opener. Make sure the host has all the required liquor, beer and wine for you to make the appropriate drinks for the number of people attending the event.
Check in with the client or host when you first arrive to the party. Figure out where all the bar supplies are and know where you can get additional supplies in case you run out. Take an inventory of all liquor, beer, wine, mixers, etc beforehand so you can compare after the party is over. Cut up and organize two sets of garnishes, keeping one stored in a cool area for later when the initial has run out. Also, find out where the ice machine is and how to effectively shuttle more to your bar when you need it.
DO NOT drink or smoke while you are working. You need to be in control of the situation, and you are on the line if someone becomes to intoxicated. Let the host know of any problem guests so they can appropriately deal with any situations that may arise.
Clean up the bar area at the end of night. Take time to be as helpful as possible to the host so you get asked back and get a big tip!
Follow these guidelines and you, the host and the guests will have a great night. Make sure to have some cards made up with your info to pass on to contacts you meet, as well as to leave with the host because you will probably be asked back.
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