Open bar... Cash bar... No bar....

Serving drinks at your reception can be a very costly part of your reception expenses.  Most couples when planning their wedding think of the different options.

Open bar - guest can order what they want when they want. This is paid for with the venue at the end of the night. When planning your menu, most venues will let you decide which grade of alcohol you would like to provide for your guest. This is when you can decide if they are going to get top shelf or a small selection of less expensive alcohols.

Cash bar - This is when the guest pay for their own alcoholic beverages. Usually the water, soda and coffee come with the per plate cost of the meal.

No bar - also known as a dry wedding. Again, water, soda and coffee are usually served.

Lastly, I really like the idea of having a modified open bar. This would include soda, coffee, beer on tap, wine and then a signature cocktail that the bride and groom choose. Great way to still give your guests a treat but keeping your budget in check.