Pour Decisions: Choosing the Perfect Bar Option for Your Windsor Manor Wedding

At Windsor Manor, every celebration is as unique as the couple we’re celebrating. When it comes to your wedding bar, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — whether you envision craft cocktails flowing all night, a simple toast with champagne, or a completely alcohol-free affair, we offer flexible packages to fit your style, guest list, and budget.

Below, we’re breaking down the different types of bar options available at Windsor Manor — along with the pros and cons of each — so you can confidently choose the one that fits your celebration best.

1. Non-Alcoholic Bar

A bar doesn’t have to serve alcohol to be special. Our non-alcoholic bar setup can include sodas, sparkling cider, fruit-infused water and lemonade, beautifully displayed to complement your reception aesthetic.

Pros:

• Ideal for daytime, family-friendly, or faith-based celebrations

• Keeps costs lower without sacrificing style

• Guests of all ages can enjoy every offering

Cons:

• Some adult guests may prefer an alcoholic option

• Can require a little creativity to make it feel festive (think signature mocktails)

A bar without alcohol can still be full of charm, color, and conversation.

2. Cash Bar (Beer & Wine, with or without Liquor)

Guests purchase their own drinks, and Windsor provides a stocked bar with beer and wine — with the option to add liquor for a wider variety of cocktails.

Pros:

• Cost-effective option — you don’t cover guest consumption

• Still offers guests a festive experience

• Flexible: start with beer and wine or add liquor for mixed drinks

Cons:

• Guests need to bring cash or card

• Slower bar lines if liquor and cocktails are added

Perfect for couples who want to offer a bar experience without stretching their budget.

3. Open Bar (Beer & Wine with or without Liquor)

A hosted bar where the couple covers the cost of drinks for their guests. Start with open beer and wine service, or elevate the experience by adding liquor for cocktails and mixed drinks.

Pros:

• Seamless, guest-friendly experience — no payment required

• Predictable cost structure with tiered options

• Adds an elevated, celebratory tone

Cons:

• Higher cost per guest than cash bar options

• Requires experienced bartenders for liquor service (ours are pros!)

An open bar creates an atmosphere of celebration from the first pour to the final toast.

4. Signature Drinks

Add personality to your bar with a custom cocktail named after your love story — like The Manor Mule or His & Hers Margaritas. These can be added to any bar type, and our team will help design signage and garnishes to match your theme.

Pros:

• Personalized touch guests remember

• Works for any bar type — open, cash, or non-alcoholic

• Photo-worthy and fun

Cons:

• Adds a small additional cost

• Requires advance selection and ingredient prep

Your signature drink tells your story, one sip at a time.

5. Champagne Toast

A beautiful way to mark your ceremony or reception speeches, the champagne toast can be added to any bar package — or offered on its own if you choose not to have a bar at all.

You can also elevate this moment with our Champagne Wall enhancement, a stunning display that can be placed at the entrance of your ceremony for guests to enjoy a celebratory pour before you say “I do.”

Pros:

• Timeless, elegant tradition

• Can be offered without a full bar

• Adds a festive, unified moment for guests

Cons:

• Additional per-person cost

• Requires advance coordination for timing and pour service

A classic champagne toast brings everyone together in one sparkling moment.

6. The Second Bar Enhancement

For larger guest counts or weddings that flow between multiple spaces, a second bar can be added as an enhancement. This includes an additional bar setup and a second bartender to keep lines short and service seamless.

It’s also a wonderful option for couples planning a cocktail hour in the Green Space — allowing guests to enjoy drinks outdoors while soaking in the garden views without having to return inside.

Pros:

• Perfect for cocktail hour in the Green Space

• Improves flow and reduces wait times

• Allows for specialty setups (e.g., outdoor cocktail bar or bourbon station)

• Adds a stylish décor element for large receptions

Cons:

• Additional cost for setup and staffing

• May require strategic placement depending on layout

Two bars mean twice the charm — and half the wait.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re toasting with champagne, sipping mocktails under the twinkle lights, or creating your own signature drink menu, Windsor Manor’s bar options are designed to make your celebration as personal as your love story.

Our coordination team will guide you through each option to ensure your service feels seamless, elegant, and perfectly suited to your day.