Chicago Event Bartending Checklist: What to Know Before You Book

Planning anevent in Chicago? Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate function, or a privateparty at home, means juggling a lot of details. Food, music, décor, and ofcourse, the drinks. Hiring the right event bartending service in Chicago can be the difference between a smooth, unforgettable evening and one filledwith stress.

But how doyou know what to look for before booking? This checklist will walk you throughthe essentials so you can confidently hire a licensed and insured bartenderin Chicago who meets your needs and impresses your guests.

✅ 1. Make Sure They’re Licensed

The firstitem on your checklist: always confirm that your bartender is licensed. InChicago, bartenders must meet city requirements for alcohol service. A licensedbartender in Chicago knows how to:

• Check     IDs properly.
• Serve responsibly to prevent     overservice.
• Handle any alcohol-related     situations professionally.

Withoutlicensing, you risk fines, venue issues, and even legal liability. Don’tskip this step.

✅ 2. Ask About Insurance

Accidentshappen. A spilled cocktail on expensive equipment, a guest slipping near thebar, or an unexpected incident can turn into a costly problem. That’s why youshould only book an insured bartending service in Chicago.

Mostprofessional venues actually require proof of insurance before allowing barservice. When you hire an insured bartender, you protect both yourselfand your guests, ensuring peace of mind.

✅ 3. Understand Their Experience

Differentevents call for different skill sets. Before you hire, ask about thebartender’s experience:

• Corporate events need efficient service and a     polished demeanor.
• Weddings require bartenders who can     manage large crowds while keeping the mood celebratory.
• Private parties benefit from a bartender who’s     personable, engaging, and adaptable.

By choosinga bartender who has worked events similar to yours, you’ll set yourself up forsuccess.

✅ 4. Review Service Packages

Not everybartending company offers the same level of service. At Chicago BartendingCompany, our bartending packages include options like:

• Full bar setup and breakdown.
• Cocktail menu planning and     custom signature drinks.
• Wine     and beer service.
• Non-alcoholic options,     including mocktails and hydration stations.
• Coordination with catering for     a seamless food-and-drink experience.

👉 You can view our bartending packages here to find the best fit for yourevent.

✅ 5. Get a Customized Quote

Every eventis unique, which is why prices vary depending on guest count, duration, and thetype of service you need. Instead of fixed rates, we provide tailored quotesfor each client.

To receivea personalized estimate:

• 📧 Email us at contact@chicagobartendingcompany.com
• 📞     Call us at 773-295-8889
• 💬 Text us anytime at 312-967-8100

This way,you’ll know exactly what to expect—no surprises.

✅ 6. Confirm Setup & Cleanup

Greatbartenders don’t just mix drinks. They take care of the entire bar experiencefrom start to finish. When booking event bartending in Chicago, confirmthat your bartender will:

• Arrive     early for setup.
• Provide all bar tools and     equipment.
• Handle cleanup so you can focus     on enjoying your event.

✅ 7. Check Reviews & Testimonials

Reputationmatters. Before booking, read testimonials and ask for references. Lookfor feedback on:

• Professionalism.
• Reliability     and punctuality.
• Guest     experience.
• Quality     of cocktails.

A strongtrack record is the best indicator that you’re hiring a trusted professional.

✅ 8. Plan Your Menu in Advance

A bartenderdoes more than serve drinks—they can help you plan them. From signaturecocktails to crowd-pleasing classics, a professional Chicago event bartenderwill guide you on:

• Drink selection to match your     event theme.
• How much alcohol and mixers to     purchase.
• Creative     non-alcoholic options.

Thisplanning ensures no guest feels left out and no one has an empty glass.

WhyChoose Chicago Bartending Company?

When itcomes to bartending services in Chicago, we stand out for our commitmentto professionalism, safety, and customized experiences. Here’s what youget when booking with us:

• Licensed & insured     bartenders for     peace of mind.
• Customized packages for private parties, corporate     events, and weddings.
• Friendly, professional staff who make guests feel welcome.
• Seamless service—from setup to cleanup.

Conclusion

Hiring theright bartender can make or break your event. By following this checklist,you’ll ensure your bar service is professional, safe, and perfectly suited toyour needs.

Whetheryou’re hosting a corporate mixer, private house party, or weddingcelebration, Chicago Bartending Company is here to help you impress yourguests with polished, reliable, and unforgettable bartending service.

📧 Contact us today at contact@chicagobartendingcompany.comor visit our packages page to start planning your event.

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