Friday, May 24, 2013

Learn to Become a Bartender: Bartending Private Parties

By Doak Walker


Private parties are very profitable and fun to work. They are ideal for the person who wants to bartend occasionally for good money, but has a full time job. One of the biggest perks of working these events is the ability to network and make important contacts for other parties and job opportunities.

Groups looking to find a private bartender for their event will generally pay good wages because of the importance of the event. It may be a graduation, office Christmas party, or a gathering of old friends and family. Whatever the case, they have hired you because you're a professional who knows what they're doing, and that's exactly what you need to be.

Before the event, it's important to discuss in person or over the phone some details and requirements about the event with the host:

First things first, what time does the event start?

It's critical that you plan for at least a half hour for set up before the event, and at least a half hour for clean up at the end of the event. This time needs to be negotiated in your pay.

Second, how many guests will be attending the event?

For the most part, one bartender can take care of around one hundred and twenty five people. Any more than that and a second bartender need to be considered.

Next, what will be you pay for the party?

Fifteen dollars per hour is an average rate for a good private bartender. A tip jar is also usually put in front of you bar. If this isn't allowed, a single tip from the client is usually expected.

Fourth, what is the attire for the bartender during the event?

The typical get up for a private bartender at an event is black and white. This includes black dress pants with black shoes and dress socks, and a white long sleeve button up shirt with a white t-shirt and usually no tie. If it's some type of them party, this will obviously change, but make sure and find out.

Fifth, what's on the drink menu?

Ask what types of drinks will be served. Is the party serving beer, wine, mixed drinks, or specialty drinks? Make sure you know the mixtures of any specialty drinks and always carry your own wine and beer opener. Make sure the host has all the required liquor, beer and wine for you to make the appropriate drinks for the number of people attending the event.

Check in with the client or host when you first arrive to the party. Figure out where all the bar supplies are and know where you can get additional supplies in case you run out. Take an inventory of all liquor, beer, wine, mixers, etc beforehand so you can compare after the party is over. Cut up and organize two sets of garnishes, keeping one stored in a cool area for later when the initial has run out. Also, find out where the ice machine is and how to effectively shuttle more to your bar when you need it.

Make it a point to not smoke or drink during the event. You need to be on your game, friendly, personable, and most importantly, in control. Taper of the drink proportions through the night, and see to it that anyone getting to intoxicated is cut off.

Clean up the bar area at the end of night. Take time to be as helpful as possible to the host so you get asked back and get a big tip!

Follow these steps and guidelines to make sure everyone has a great party, especially you! Make sure you have cards with your bartending information and contact information on it to pass out to interested future customers.




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