Exploring The Role Of Bartending Services In Catering Events

Bartending services play an important role in many events, providing experienced and knowledgeable staff to keep guests’ glasses topped up with a selection of drinks and refreshing cocktails. Beyond drinks, these bartenders can also engage with guests, describing signature drinks and offering advice on different drinks and ingredients. In this article, we explore the essential qualifications, equipment, and preparations for bartenders before an event, as well as looking at trends in mixology and safety considerations.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Bartender for Events

People organising an event, either private or corporate, can benefit from employing an experienced, professional bartender. Good event bartending requires excellent customer service skills to ensure guests are responded to quickly and all requests are politely accepted. They will also be able to hold conversations with guests making them feel welcome and relaxed. Professional bartenders are also knowledgeable about drinks and alcohol, meaning any present or potential guests can be advised on what particular drink to try or which options would complement the food served.

In addition to their knowledge of drinks and alcohol, professional bartenders are also trained in the safe and responsible service of alcohol. This is especially important for events where alcohol is served, as it ensures that guests are not over-served and that the event remains safe and enjoyable for all. Professional bartenders also have the necessary equipment and tools to make drinks quickly and efficiently, ensuring that guests are served in a timely manner.

Specialized Skills Required for Event Bartending

As with many social occupations, event bartending is all about the people – how to serve them, how to talk to them, and how to make sure they have the best time possible. A good bartender will have great customer service skills as mentioned previously, but also must have good organizational and multitasking abilities, not just for time management but for accurate pouring and presentations. Bartenders will also need to be knowledgeable about different cocktails and spirits, comfortable with making quick calculations to measure ingredients and/or top up a drink as needed, and friendly and reliable.

In addition to the skills mentioned above, event bartenders should also be able to work well under pressure, as they may be required to serve a large number of customers in a short amount of time. They should also be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions to any problems that may arise. Finally, event bartenders should be able to work well with other staff members, as they may be required to collaborate with other staff members to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Types of Drinks and Cocktails Served at Events

Bartenders will typically have some general categories of drinks that they become knowledgeable in for the event. These can range from classic cocktails like the Old-Fashioned, Daiquiri, and Margarita, as well as traditional drinks like beer and wine. They will also be comfortable creating signature cocktails based on the client’s personal preferences. Furthermore they might suggest interesting variations on classics such as a Chamomile infused Negroni or an Espresso Martini.

In addition to the drinks mentioned above, bartenders may also be able to provide a selection of non-alcoholic drinks such as mocktails, juices, and sodas. This is especially important for events that are attended by people of all ages, or those who do not wish to consume alcohol. By providing a variety of drinks, bartenders can ensure that everyone at the event is able to enjoy a beverage of their choice.

Equipment and Supplies Needed for Event Bartending

For any event a bartender will have a few pieces of equipment that they need in order to do their job properly. The most important pieces are probably a well-stocked bar including a jigger for measuring accurate amounts of alcohol or mixers, shakers, strainers, a blender or juicer if needed, muddler for cocktails that need muddling or crushing, bar tools such as muddlers, spoons, stirrers etc., ice bucket or tubs, glasses and garnishes.

In addition to the bar equipment, bartenders should also have a few other items on hand. This includes a cutting board and knife for slicing garnishes, a bottle opener, a corkscrew, a bar towel, and a tray for carrying drinks. Having these items on hand will ensure that the bartender is prepared for any situation that may arise during the event.

Trends in Mixology and Creative Beverage Presentation

These days it’s common for bartenders to experiment with different flavors or present drinks in an interesting way. They might use a range of quirky garnishes such as edible flowers or smoke, or even create hand-crafted ice cubes instead of the standard ones seen in most bars. They might even use novel glassware such as Mason jars or ampules in order to make a drink more visually appealing. All this requires plenty of creativity and attention to detail from the bartender.

In addition to the presentation of the drink, mixologists are also experimenting with different types of ingredients. For example, some are using unusual herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations, while others are incorporating unusual ingredients such as bacon or even insects into their drinks. This trend is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows bartenders to showcase their creativity and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of mixology.

Safety Considerations When Bartending at Events

One of the paramount tasks for an event bartender is to make sure that all of their guests are safe when consuming alcohol. This includes not only responsible service practices based on an understanding of alcohol intoxication levels but also with regards to sanitary conditions when serving food and drinks. Bartenders should also be aware of any potential allergies their guests might have when serving drinks or food items.

In addition, bartenders should be aware of any local laws and regulations that may be in place regarding the sale and service of alcohol. This includes understanding the legal drinking age in the area, as well as any restrictions on the sale of alcohol after certain hours. It is also important to be aware of any local laws that may be in place regarding the sale of alcohol to intoxicated individuals.

Tips for Working with Clients to Ensure a Successful Event

It is important that a successful event flows smoothly right from the start. As such, it is beneficial for bartenders to work closely with their clients throughout the planning process. This can include ideas on drinks or going through tasting sessions with clients to ensure they know what they’re getting come event day. Doing so not only prevents any potential issues on the day but gives clients much more confidence that things will run smoothly.

It is also important to be flexible and accommodating to the client's needs. This could include offering a variety of drinks to suit different tastes, or providing a range of garnishes and mixers to customize drinks. Additionally, bartenders should be prepared to answer any questions the client may have about the drinks or the event itself. By being accommodating and helpful, bartenders can ensure that the event is a success and that the client is satisfied.

The Future of Event Bartending Services

As more people continue to hold events requiring bartending services, there’s no doubt that technology will play a big role in the future of event bartending. This can include automated pouring machines which allow for faster drinks production, as well as apps that allow for monitoring of customers’ levels of intoxication. Bartenders will also likely continue experimenting with creative presentation techniques on classic cocktails in order to bring something unique to the table.