How to Become an Event Bartender (Shaking Up the Event Scene)
If you’ve ever envisioned yourself mixing drinks at high-profile events or pondered what it takes to become a successful event bartender, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to undertake to kickstart your career as an event bartender. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you require.
- The training that can enhance your expertise.
- How to land your first job as an event bartender.
So, whether you’re a novice mixologist or a seasoned professional aiming to refine your skills, stay tuned.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to become a successful event bartender.
Let’s dive in!
Steps to Become an Event Bartender
Step 1: Understand the Role of an Event Bartender
Before you decide to become an event bartender, it’s essential to understand the duties and responsibilities that come with the job.
Event bartenders are responsible for providing excellent bar service at various events such as weddings, corporate functions, parties, and more.
This role typically involves setting up the bar, preparing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, interacting with guests, ensuring the bar is well-stocked and clean, and potentially handling cash transactions.
Being an event bartender requires a wide range of skills.
You will need to have knowledge of cocktail recipes and be capable of quickly preparing drinks.
Excellent customer service skills are crucial, as you’ll be interacting with all sorts of people throughout the event.
You also need to be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced, busy environment.
Additionally, you should be aware of the physical demands of the job.
Event bartending often involves long hours on your feet and lifting heavy kegs or crates of drinks.
It is also worth noting that the work can be irregular, with many events taking place in the evenings, weekends, or holidays.
Understanding these aspects of the role can help you determine if event bartending is the right career path for you.
Step 2: Obtain High School Diploma or Equivalent
For aspiring event bartenders, a high school diploma or equivalent is often the minimum educational requirement.
While in high school, taking courses in mathematics could be particularly beneficial because bartenders often need to quickly calculate the cost of drinks and make change for customers.
Courses in the physical sciences, such as chemistry or biology, can also be beneficial as they provide a foundation for understanding the composition of various beverages and how different ingredients interact with each other.
It’s also beneficial to get involved in extracurricular activities that develop your social and customer service skills.
Joining clubs, participating in team sports, or volunteering in community events can help you build these skills.
Remember, while obtaining your high school diploma or equivalent, it is important to maintain a good academic record and avoid any legal trouble as employers often conduct background checks.
Upon completion of high school, while not mandatory, you may consider further education in hospitality or mixology courses.
These can provide you with a deeper understanding of the profession and potentially open up more job opportunities in the future.
Step 3: Attend Bartending School or a Hospitality Course
To further enhance your skills and knowledge in the bartending field, consider attending a bartending school or a hospitality course.
These programs typically offer classes on a wide range of topics such as drink recipes, serving techniques, customer service, and responsible alcohol service.
Bartending school is a great way to learn the basics, from cocktail recipes to the art of pouring a draught beer.
Meanwhile, a hospitality course can provide you with a broader understanding of the industry, including food service, event planning, and management skills.
In addition to learning practical skills, attending these courses can also provide you with a recognized certification, which can increase your credibility and employability.
It may also give you the chance to network with professionals in the industry, which could help you find job opportunities in the future.
Remember, while some employers may prefer bartenders with formal training, others may value hands-on experience more.
Therefore, it’s beneficial to balance your education with real-world bartending experience to increase your chances of landing a job as an event bartender.
Step 4: Gain Experience in Customer Service
As an event bartender, excellent customer service skills are essential to your success.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have previous bartending experience, but any role that involves interaction with customers can be beneficial.
This could be in the retail, hospitality, food service, or any other customer-facing industry.
During this stage, you will learn how to handle various situations, such as dealing with difficult customers, managing complaints, and providing excellent service under pressure.
These experiences will be invaluable when you start working behind the bar at events, where the atmosphere can often be fast-paced and demanding.
Consider seeking part-time or temporary jobs in customer service roles, or even volunteering at local events.
The aim is to grow comfortable in serving and interacting with customers, and to develop a thick skin and quick problem-solving skills.
Remember, as a bartender, your ability to provide a positive customer experience can greatly influence the overall atmosphere of the event.
Step 5: Obtain Bartending Certification
Though not always required, obtaining a bartending certification can significantly increase your chances of landing a job as an event bartender.
This certification, often available through online or in-person courses, will equip you with the basic knowledge of bartending skills such as cocktail mixing, pouring techniques, and alcohol laws and responsibilities.
In addition to practical skills, bartending courses also cover essential theoretical knowledge like understanding the different types of alcohol, learning about popular cocktail recipes, and being aware of local and state alcohol regulations.
After completing the course, you will receive a certification or license which can be a great addition to your resume, demonstrating your commitment and professionalism to potential employers.
Step 6: Gain Experience in Bartending
Before you can confidently handle bartending at large events, you should first gain experience in a more controlled, less chaotic environment.
Consider starting at a local bar or restaurant, where the pace might be slower and you can learn from experienced bartenders.
During this time, focus on refining your skills, learning how to make a wide range of drinks, and understanding how to manage bar inventory.
It’s also an opportunity to see how you handle the physical demands of the job, such as standing for long periods and lifting heavy kegs.
As you gain confidence and expertise, you can start applying for event bartending gigs.
Start small, perhaps with private parties or smaller local events, and as you become more comfortable, you can aim for larger, more high-profile events.
Step 5: Obtain a Job in a Bar or Restaurant
After completing your training and certification, the next step is to gain real-world experience by finding a job at a bar, restaurant, or any other establishment that serves alcohol.
This will provide you with valuable experience and allow you to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in a real-world setting.
Starting as a bar-back or server might be a good way to get your foot in the door if you don’t have any previous experience.
This will also give you the opportunity to observe bartenders in action and learn from their techniques.
Remember, the goal is to become comfortable with the pace of service, handling difficult customers, and getting practical knowledge of mixology.
By being proactive and showing your eagerness to learn, you will soon earn opportunities to try your hand at bartending.
Another good practice would be to build a network within the industry.
Attend events, join bartender associations, and get to know other professionals in your field.
This will not only help in job search but will also provide you with valuable insights and guidance to hone your skills further.
Step 6: Develop Knowledge of Cocktail Recipes and Drink Preparation Techniques
As an event bartender, having a thorough knowledge of a wide range of cocktail recipes and drink preparation techniques is critical.
This includes understanding the ingredients, proportions, mixing methods, and appropriate glassware for each cocktail.
Familiarize yourself with classic cocktails, such as Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Martini, along with trendy and regional favorites.
Equally important is mastering various drink preparation techniques.
This could be anything from stirring, shaking, and straining to more complex skills like flaming and muddling.
You also need to know how to pour a perfect pint and handle wine correctly.
Consider attending mixology classes or workshops to expand your knowledge and practice your skills.
Online tutorials and books can also be valuable resources.
Remember, practice makes perfect so try making different cocktails at home or during your downtime.
Lastly, stay updated with the latest trends in the beverage industry.
This will help you offer innovative and exciting drink options to your customers, making the event more enjoyable and memorable.
Step 7: Obtain Bartending License or Certification
If you’re looking to become an event bartender, obtaining a bartending license or certification is a crucial step.
This certification will not only add credibility to your skills but also demonstrate your understanding of serving alcohol responsibly and safely.
Additionally, in some places, it’s a legal requirement to have a license before you start bartending at events.
There are various bartending schools and online platforms that offer courses leading to certification.
These courses usually cover topics such as mixology, cocktail creation, customer service, and knowledge about different types of alcohol.
Additionally, these courses also address important aspects such as local liquor laws and responsible alcohol service.
Keep in mind that requirements for getting a bartending license vary by state or country.
You may have to pass a written exam, and in some cases, you might need to demonstrate your practical skills.
In some places, you might also need to renew your certification periodically.
Obtaining a bartending license or certification not only boosts your job prospects but also provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel as an event bartender.
Step 8: Gain Experience in Event Bartending
After you’ve obtained the necessary bartending skills and knowledge, it’s crucial to gain real-world experience in event bartending.
Initially, you may start as an assistant bartender at small scale events.
This will provide you with the opportunity to understand the dynamics of event bartending, such as setup and breakdown of the bar, managing inventories, and serving a large number of guests in a limited time frame.
Gradually, you can aim to work at larger events like weddings, corporate parties, or festivals.
These experiences will help you understand the art of multitasking, creating cocktails on the spot, and interacting with a diverse clientele.
Always remember, the more events you work at, the more you learn and improve your skills.
Another good approach to gain experience is to volunteer at charity events or local festivals where bartending services are needed.
Not only will this give you hands-on experience, but it also expands your network which can lead to more job opportunities.
To further enhance your skills, you might want to consider part-time jobs in bars, restaurants, or clubs.
This will help you stay updated with the latest cocktail trends and improve your speed, accuracy, and customer service skills.
Remember, every event is a learning opportunity.
Make sure to receive feedback from your clients or supervisors and use it to continually improve your bartending skills and services.
Step 9: Develop Skills in Multitasking and Time Management
Being an event bartender often means serving a large number of people simultaneously, so having excellent multitasking skills is key.
This includes keeping track of multiple drink orders, preparing drinks efficiently, and handling payment transactions all at once.
Time management is another crucial skill.
This may involve managing the amount of time it takes to prepare each drink to ensure all customers are served in a timely manner, or it could refer to managing your schedule to ensure you’re able to handle multiple events in a short period of time.
To develop these skills, consider taking part in fast-paced environments that require multitasking and time management, such as working in a busy restaurant or bar.
Additionally, there are professional development courses and workshops that can help you improve these skills.
It may also be beneficial to seek out mentorship from experienced bartenders who can provide advice and guidance.
Remember, the goal is to ensure every guest feels attended to and receives their drink in a timely manner.
The ability to multitask and manage your time effectively will greatly enhance your performance as an event bartender.
Step 10: Build a Network with Event Planners and Venues
As an Event Bartender, networking plays a crucial role in obtaining new opportunities and expanding your reach.
Therefore, after acquiring the necessary skills, certification, and experience, your next step should be to build a network with event planners and venues.
Reach out to local event planners and introduce yourself as a professional bartender available for hire.
Attend networking events and make a point to connect with individuals in the event planning sector.
This can lead to job opportunities, as event planners often require bartenders for the functions they organize.
In addition, establish relationships with venues such as hotels, convention centers, banquet halls, and even local restaurants that host private events.
These venues often have a list of preferred vendors they recommend to clients, and by creating a positive relationship with them, you can become a part of that list.
Remember to always leave a good impression and provide excellent service.
Word of mouth is powerful in the event industry, and a recommendation from a satisfied client can open doors to more job opportunities.
Attend industry events, join online groups, and participate in forums to stay updated on trends, meet prospective clients, and maintain visibility in the industry.
Lastly, consider creating a website or online portfolio showcasing your previous work, testimonials, and services offered.
This can serve as a virtual business card, making it easy for potential clients to find and contact you.
Step 11: Stay Updated with the Latest Trends in Mixology
As an event bartender, it’s crucial to keep yourself updated with the newest trends in mixology, the art and science of creating cocktails.
These trends can include new cocktail recipes, techniques, garnishing styles, presentation aesthetics, and even the latest alcohol brands in the market.
Subscribe to trade magazines, join bartender associations, and follow renowned mixologists on social media to gain insights into the latest trends.
Attend industry events such as seminars, tastings, and competitions to learn from peers and industry leaders.
Consider also taking advanced mixology courses or workshops to further enhance your skills.
These may cover topics like creating your own syrups, infusions, and bitters, advanced garnishing techniques, or mastering classic cocktails.
Being well-informed and skilled in the latest trends in mixology can make you more valuable to employers and clients, and it can help you provide a more enjoyable and memorable experience for guests at events.
Step 12: Apply for Jobs as an Event Bartender or Freelance.
When you have acquired the necessary skills, certifications, and experience, the next step is to apply for jobs as an event bartender.
Look for job postings online on platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or specialized hospitality job boards.
You can also approach event management companies, catering services, and venues that frequently host events.
Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your bartending skills, certifications, and any specializations you may have, such as mixology or flair bartending.
Your experience in handling various events should be clearly stated, as this can give you an edge over other candidates.
Alternatively, you might decide to work as a freelance event bartender.
This can give you the flexibility to choose the events you want to work at and negotiate your rates.
To do this, you would need to market your services effectively.
You could set up a professional website displaying your portfolio, use social media to reach potential clients, or network with event planners and hospitality professionals to get referrals.
Remember, the goal is to showcase your professionalism, reliability, and excellent bartending skills, whether you are applying for a job or freelancing.
This will help you stand out in the highly competitive event bartending field.
Event Bartender Roles and Responsibilities
Event Bartenders are responsible for providing an excellent drink service at social gatherings to create an engaging and fun environment for guests.
They mix, garnish, and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks according to customer needs and expectations.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Beverage Preparation and Service
- Mix, garnish and serve drinks according to recipes or customer preferences.
- Check guests’ identification to ensure they meet legal drinking age.
- Take beverage orders from serving staff or directly from patrons.
Customer Service
- Interact with customers, take orders, and serve snacks and drinks.
- Assess customers’ needs and preferences and make recommendations.
- Handle customer complaints and queries efficiently and in a friendly manner.
Cleanliness and Organization
- Clean bars, work areas, and tables.
- Ensure the bar area is fully equipped with tools and products needed for mixing beverages.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.
Stock Management
- Restock and replenish bar inventory and supplies.
- Monitor stock levels and order supplies as needed.
- Manage bar inventory, including conducting regular stock checks and reporting any shortages.
Payment Handling
- Collect payment for drinks served and give change.
- Balance cash receipts at the end of the shift.
Health and Safety
- Follow all relevant health department rules/regulations and all customer service guidelines.
- Ensure the environment is safe for staff and customers.
Team Collaboration
- Collaborate with other staff members to ensure the event runs smoothly.
- Help other areas of the bar when necessary.
Knowledge of Drinks
- Stay updated with current and new cocktail recipes.
- Have a deep understanding of bar menu, including types of drinks and prices.
Event Set-Up and Tear-Down
- Help with bar setup and closing procedures.
- Assist with event cleanup, including collecting glassware and disposing of trash.
What Does an Event Bartender Do?
Event Bartenders typically work for catering companies, event planning businesses, or as self-employed individuals.
They are frequently hired for special events like weddings, corporate gatherings, or parties.
Their primary task is to prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to guests.
This includes mixing, garnishing and serving drinks according to recipes or the guest’s preference.
Event Bartenders also interact with guests, take orders, and serve snacks and food items when necessary.
They have the responsibility to check the identification of customers to verify age requirements for the purchase of alcohol.
Additionally, they are responsible for setting up and breaking down the bar area before and after an event.
This involves stocking the bar with alcohol, mixers, ice, napkins, straws, and other necessary supplies.
Event Bartenders also ensure a clean and sanitary bar area, follow all food and beverage control procedures, and comply with all alcohol service regulations.
They are often expected to provide excellent customer service and handle any problematic situations that may arise, such as refusing service to overly intoxicated guests.
In some cases, Event Bartenders might also be asked to create signature cocktails for an event, requiring a certain level of creativity and understanding of mixology.
Essential Event Bartender Skills
- Customer Service: Event bartenders interact directly with customers, making excellent customer service skills vital. They need to be friendly, attentive, and patient with all customers, ensuring they have a positive experience.
- Knowledge of Cocktails: Bartenders must have a comprehensive understanding of cocktails, including the ingredients and methods used to make them. They should also be able to make recommendations based on customer preferences.
- Speed and Efficiency: Bartenders often have to serve a large number of customers at once. Being able to work quickly and efficiently, without sacrificing quality, is crucial.
- Handling Cash: Bartenders often handle cash transactions, so basic maths skills and a good understanding of cash handling procedures are essential.
- Understanding Alcohol Laws: Bartenders should be familiar with the local alcohol laws and regulations, including those related to serving underage or intoxicated customers.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Bartenders need to keep their work area clean and well-maintained, and ensure all equipment is properly sanitized. This involves regular cleaning and maintenance tasks.
- Physical Stamina: Bartending is a physically demanding job that often requires standing for long periods and lifting heavy kegs or boxes. Physical stamina and strength are necessary.
- Communication: Bartenders must communicate effectively with customers, colleagues, and managers. This includes conveying information clearly, listening attentively, and handling complaints professionally.
- Inventory Management: Bartenders often need to manage and restock inventory. Good organizational skills and an understanding of inventory management principles can be beneficial.
- Resilience: Bartending can be a high-stress job, especially during busy events. Resilience and the ability to handle stress effectively are essential.
- Creativity: Creativity can be a valuable asset for bartenders, allowing them to develop new drink recipes and provide unique experiences for customers.
- Knowledge of Wine and Beer: In addition to cocktails, bartenders should also have a solid knowledge of different types of wine and beer, including their flavor profiles and food pairings.
- Conflict Resolution: Bartenders may sometimes need to deal with difficult or unruly customers. Skills in conflict resolution can help manage these situations effectively and maintain a positive atmosphere.
- Teamwork: Bartenders often work as part of a team, so the ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to a team-oriented environment is important.
- Responsible Service of Alcohol: Event bartenders need to serve alcohol responsibly and ensure the safety and well-being of all customers. This includes recognizing signs of intoxication and knowing when to refuse service.
Event Bartender Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Bartender Trainee
Your career in the event bartending industry generally begins as a Bartender Trainee.
You’ll spend a lot of time learning about different types of alcohol, drink recipes, and techniques for serving guests.
Your responsibilities might include assisting the senior bartender, serving simple drinks, and understanding bar procedures.
Here are some tips for succeeding in this role:
- Continual Learning: Familiarize yourself with different types of beverages and cocktail recipes.
- Ask for Guidance: Seek assistance and advice from experienced bartenders to improve your skills.
- Be Proactive: Show initiative in learning the ropes and helping where you can.
The Ascent: Event Bartender
Once you have gained enough experience and knowledge, you’ll transition to the role of an Event Bartender.
You will be responsible for serving guests, preparing a variety of cocktails, and ensuring that the bar is well-stocked.
Here’s how to excel in this role:
- Customer Service: Sharpen your people skills to provide excellent service to guests.
- Teamwork: Work effectively with other bar staff and event coordinators to ensure smooth operation.
- Efficiency: Improve your speed and accuracy in preparing drinks without compromising quality.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Event Bartender
As you continue to gain experience and improve your skills, you may advance to the role of a Senior Event Bartender.
In this position, you’ll take on more responsibilities such as designing drink menus, training new bartenders, and handling complex customer requests.
To succeed in this role:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and skills with new bartenders.
- Creativity: Show your creativity in designing unique and appealing drink menus.
- Leadership: Show effective leadership in managing the bar during events.
Beyond the Horizon: Bar Manager
As you further your career, you might choose to become a Bar Manager.
This role involves managing all operations of the bar, including hiring and training staff, ordering supplies, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Organizational Skills: Improve your ability to manage the bar inventory and staff schedules.
- Leadership: Develop leadership skills to motivate your team and handle any bar-related issues effectively.
- Financial Acumen: Learn about cost control and budget management for running a profitable operation.
Pinnacle of Success: Event Manager or Bar Owner
Reaching the pinnacle of your career, you might become an Event Manager or a Bar Owner.
These roles include planning and managing large-scale events, managing multiple teams, and making strategic decisions for business growth.
Your responsibilities may also include developing marketing strategies and maintaining strong relationships with vendors and clients.
Event Bartender Salary
Entry-Level Event Bartender
- Median Salary: $20,000 – $30,000 per year
- Entry-level event bartenders typically have 0-2 years of experience. They may have completed a bartending course or have some background in hospitality. Their primary duties often include preparing basic drinks and maintaining a clean bar area.
Mid-Level Event Bartender
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
- Mid-level event bartenders possess 2-5 years of experience. They are often skilled in mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks in accordance with recipes or personal judgment and experience. They may also be adept at managing a diverse drink menu for various event types.
Senior Event Bartender
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $50,000 per year
- Senior event bartenders possess 5+ years of experience. They are responsible for creating unique cocktails, providing excellent customer service, and often managing junior bartenders. They may also be involved in inventory management and training new staff.
Bar Manager / Event Coordinator
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- These roles require significant experience and involve managing the overall operations of the bar at events, including staffing, inventory control, and ensuring customer satisfaction. They might also work with clients to develop event plans and coordinate event logistics.
Beverage Director / Director of Bartending Services
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $80,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep knowledge of the beverage industry. They often involve overseeing all bar operations, creating drink menus for various events, training staff, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.
Event Bartender Work Environment
Event Bartenders often work in a wide variety of environments such as weddings, corporate functions, music festivals, sporting events, and private parties.
Their workplace could be a banquet hall, outdoor venue, sports stadium, private residence or a corporate office.
Event Bartenders often work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to coincide with events.
Their schedules may fluctuate depending on the season, with a higher volume of work during holiday seasons and summer months.
After gaining sufficient experience and clientele, an Event Bartender may choose to start their own event bartending service or consulting company.
They may also progress to roles involving the planning and management of events.
FAQs About Becoming an Event Bartender
What qualifications do I need to become an Event Bartender?
To become an Event Bartender, a high school diploma or equivalent is often required.
Formal training is not mandatory but can be beneficial.
Many bartenders learn their skills through on-the-job training or bartending schools.
Knowledge of drink recipes, customer service skills, cash handling, and understanding of local alcohol laws are essential.
Additionally, a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is required in many places.
What skills should an Event Bartender have?
Event Bartenders should have excellent customer service skills, as interacting with customers is a large part of the job.
They should be able to work under pressure and multitask, as events can become busy.
Knowledge of cocktails and other beverages, along with skills in mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks, are important.
Physical stamina is also key, as bartending often involves standing for long periods and lifting heavy boxes of liquor or kegs.
Do I need a license to be an Event Bartender?
The requirements for bartending licenses vary by location.
Many states require bartenders to complete a responsible serving course to get a license or permit to serve alcohol.
It’s essential to check the specific requirements in your area.
Is being an Event Bartender a stressful job?
Being an Event Bartender can be challenging, as it often involves working in a fast-paced, noisy environment, dealing with difficult customers, and working late hours.
However, many bartenders find the job rewarding and enjoy the social interaction and creativity involved in making drinks.
It’s important to have good stress management skills in this profession.
What is the career outlook for an Event Bartender?
The career outlook for Event Bartenders is generally positive, especially in areas with a vibrant nightlife or frequent events.
With experience, bartenders can progress to roles such as bar manager, or they may choose to open their own bar.
Many bartenders also work on a freelance basis, providing services for private parties or corporate events.
The flexibility and social nature of the work make it an attractive option for many.
Conclusion
So, there you have it.
Taking the plunge to become an event bartender is no small task, but it’s undoubtedly fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, training, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a significant splash in the event industry.
Remember, the journey may be rigorous, but the rewards are abundant. Your creativity could lead to the creation of the next signature cocktail that becomes a sensation at parties, weddings, and corporate events.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in mixology. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop innovating and creating.
Because the world is waiting for what you can concoct.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on kick-starting or advancing your career as an event bartender, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
Hiring Frenzy: The Careers That Are Most In-Demand
Robotic Replacements: Jobs Where AI is the New Norm
No Stress, More Cash: Easy Jobs That Are Unexpectedly Profitable!
Work with a Wow: The Most Enjoyable Jobs in Town
Work Smarter, Not Harder: Remote Jobs That Reward You Generously!
