When planning your wedding, one of the most important details is the bar. Couples often debate between booking a full-service vendor bar or hiring a licensed, insured dry hire bar service like Velvet Pour. While both options have their place, a dry hire service often provides more value, flexibility, and customization—all while giving you peace of mind.

What is a Dry Hire Bar Service?

A dry hire bar service provides the licensed bartenders, insurance, and professional setup—without locking you into an expensive package. You can supply your own alcohol, often saving significantly by buying in bulk or through wholesale. This model gives you the freedom to curate your own selections, while still enjoying the professionalism of a dedicated bar team. Think of it as the middle ground between DIY wedding bartending and a rigid vendor package—you get the expertise, safety, and style, while keeping control of cost and customization.

Dry Hire vs. Full Service: What’s the Difference?

Full-Service Vendor Bars

• Typically include alcohol, mixers, staffing, and equipment.
• Convenient, but often one-size-fits-all packages.
• Less flexibility with cocktail menus or specialty brands.
• Pricing can include hidden fees and unnecessary add-ons.

Dry Hire Bar Services

• Provide licensed & insured bartenders (critical for venue approval).
• Allow you to supply your own alcohol, keeping costs down.
• Offer custom wedding cocktail menus that reflect your theme or story.
• Cover essentials like ice, glassware, garnishes, and bar setup.
• Scale to your needs for a flexible, budget-friendly option.

Why It Matters for Weddings

• Cost Savings: Supplying your own alcohol can cut costs by thousands compared to vendor markups.
• Customization: Signature cocktails and themed garnishes make your bar a personal highlight.
• Transparency: You know exactly what you’re paying for—no hidden extras.
• Liability Protection: Licensed and insured services keep you and your venue covered.
• Stress-Free Experience: Pros handle logistics so you can celebrate.

Why Couples Choose Velvet Pour Bar

• Custom cocktail menus designed around your tastes, theme, and story.
• Certified & insured bartenders to satisfy venue requirements.
• Seamless service: mixers, garnishes, ice, and backup equipment included.
• A focus on ease and elegance—planning feels effortless.

Final Pour: Why Dry Hire Wins

Dry hire delivers more flexibility, more value, and a more personalized experience. If you’re planning a wedding in Tampa or beyond, choosing a licensed & insured dry hire bar service like Velvet Pour means you get all the professionalism of a full-service bar—without the restrictions or inflated costs.

✨ Raise the bar on your wedding day. Choose Velvet Pour—the art of the pour.