The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Mobile Cocktail Bar

Natalia Thliveris
Apr 29
5 min read

Updated: May 14

Are you planning an event that will wow your guests? Whether it's a wedding, corporate gathering, or private celebration, one surefire way to elevate the experience is by hiring a mobile cocktail bar. Not only does it add a stylish touch, but it also offers a unique, interactive experience that guests will love. If you're wondering how to hire a mobile bar for your upcoming event, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your celebration extraordinary.

Mobile Cocktail bar setup — Set up of our station at a clients chirstmas Party

1. Assess Your Event Needs

Before you dive into hiring a mobile cocktail bar, it's crucial to assess the specific needs of your event. Every event is different, and understanding your requirements will help you choose the best package to suit your occasion. Consider the following factors:

Guest Count: How many guests will be attending your event? This will help you determine the scale of the mobile bar you need. A larger event with hundreds of guests may require multiple bars or additional bartenders, while a more intimate gathering may only need a small setup.
Venue Size and Location: The space available for the bar is another key consideration. Is your event indoors or outdoors? Some mobile bars are designed for easy transport and setup in a variety of spaces, from spacious gardens to more intimate indoor settings.
Event Type: The nature of your event plays a significant role in the type of mobile cocktail bar you choose. A casual cocktail party will likely require a different setup compared to a formal wedding or corporate event. Understanding your event type helps in customizing the mobile bar service to match your vision.

2. Licensing & Permits: A Must-Have for Responsible Service

When hiring a mobile cocktail bar, it's essential to ensure that the provider holds the necessary licenses and permits to serve alcohol legally. Reputable mobile bar services should be fully licensed and insured, adhering to all local regulations regarding the sale and service of alcoholic beverages.

You’ll want to ask your mobile bar provider about:

Liquor Licenses: The provider should have a valid license to serve alcohol at your event.
Public Liability Insurance: This is vital to cover any unforeseen incidents that may occur during the event.
Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA): Make sure that the bartenders have the required RSA certifications to serve alcohol responsibly, ensuring your guests enjoy their drinks in a safe environment.

3. Create a Custom Cocktail Menu for Your Event

Mobile Bar
Custom Menu — Custom Cocktail Menu

One of the most exciting aspects of hiring a mobile cocktail bar is the opportunity to craft a custom cocktail menu that reflects the vibe and theme of your event. Work with the mixologists to design a menu that complements your event style and the preferences of your guests.

Here are some ideas for creating a unique drink menu:

Signature Cocktails: Give your event a personal touch by creating a signature cocktail that reflects the theme of the occasion or the personality of the guest of honor.
Classic Cocktails: Offer a variety of timeless cocktails that everyone will enjoy, from mojitos and martinis to margaritas and old-fashioneds.
Themed Cocktails: If your event has a specific theme—like a tropical party, Gatsby-inspired evening, or winter wonderland—consider crafting cocktails that align with the theme. These drinks can also be visually stunning, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your event.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Don’t forget about your guests who may prefer non-alcoholic beverages. A mobile bar can easily accommodate mocktails, soft drinks, and refreshing non-alcoholic options to cater to all tastes.

4. Choose the Right Bar Setup for Your Event

The setup and design of your mobile cocktail bar can add a lot to the atmosphere of your event. Depending on the look and feel you want to achieve, you can choose from various bar styles and designs.

Here are some popular options:

Rustic Wood Bars: Perfect for outdoor events or more laid-back celebrations, rustic wood bars create a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for garden parties, rustic weddings, or casual gatherings.
Sleek Modern Bars: If you’re hosting an upscale event or want a sleek, contemporary look, opt for a clean, minimalist design. Modern bars with sharp lines, LED lighting, and high-end finishes will give your event a chic and polished vibe.
Themed Bars: For themed events or special occasions, consider choosing a custom bar that aligns with your theme. Whether you want a vintage speakeasy look or a tropical tiki bar, a themed setup can immerse guests in the atmosphere and add an extra touch of fun.
Mobile Bar Features: Many mobile bar services offer extra features like LED lighting, branded signage, or cocktail stations that can be customized to make your event even more memorable.

5. Understand Pricing & Packages Upfront of hiring a mobile cocktail bar

When planning your event, transparency in pricing is essential to avoid any surprises down the road. A good mobile cocktail bar provider will offer clear and upfront pricing, covering all aspects of the service.

When discussing pricing with your provider, ensure that the following are included in the package:

Setup and Breakdown: Check if the price includes the setup time and breakdown of the bar after the event.
Bartenders and Staff: Most mobile bar services will include bartenders in the price, but you may need to account for additional staff if you have a large event.
Drinks and Ingredients: Understand what is included in the drink menu. Are mixers, garnishes, and premium ingredients included, or will there be additional costs for premium spirits?
Travel Fees: If your event is in a location that is outside of the service area, ask if there are any travel fees for bringing the mobile bar to your venue.

By asking about these factors upfront, you can make sure the pricing structure fits your budget without hidden fees creeping up later on.

6. Expect Premium Service and Flawless Execution

Bartender Hire services — Our Head bartender Andrea

The key to a successful mobile cocktail bar experience is excellent service. From high-quality ingredients to seamless execution, the team behind the bar plays a critical role in ensuring your event goes off without a hitch.

Look for the following qualities in your mobile bar provider:

Expert Mixologists: Ensure the bartenders are not only friendly and professional but also skilled in crafting cocktails that will impress your guests. A great mixologist can elevate the drink experience, creating memorable cocktails tailored to your event.
Efficient Service: The mobile bar should be staffed to handle the flow of guests efficiently, ensuring no one has to wait too long for a drink.
Attention to Detail: From the presentation of the drinks to the ambiance of the bar, a top-notch mobile bar service will focus on every detail to ensure a flawless event.

Make Your Event Unforgettable with Shake Stir Sips Mobie Cocktail bar Hire

Hiring a mobile cocktail bar is one of the easiest ways to make your event unforgettable. By carefully considering your event needs, customizing the drink menu, selecting the right setup, and ensuring transparent pricing, you’ll set the stage for a truly exceptional experience. Let Shake Stir Sip take your event to the next level with our expert mobile cocktail bar hire in Sydney. From stylish setups to premium service, we’re here to help create an extraordinary celebration.