Sue Vilardi is the owner of Set the Bar – an LBI-based bartending service for weddings and private events in the LBI Region.
Planning the bar for your wedding or special event can be a fun experience! The bar serves as a vibrant focal point of the day, and everyone is more relaxed with a drink in their hand —whether they’re sipping a cocktail or a mocktail.
Many people ask me if working at weddings becomes repetitive, but the truth is, each celebration is unique. Every couple brings their own style and vision to the table, and I particularly enjoy working with those who prioritize their bar and cocktail offerings. Here are some common questions I receive:
The Booze
Being that we’re not licensed to sell alcohol (same with most caterers), my business provides everything except that. One of the first inquiries I encounter is, “How do I know what alcohol to get, and how much of it?”. The first step is determining the type of bar you wish to provide for your guests. Options can range from a simple wine and beer selection to a fully stocked bar featuring signature drinks. A full bar typically includes beer, wine, and a variety of mixed cocktails – bay breezes, margaritas, gin and tonics, and old fashioneds, among others. If your budget permits, I always recommend this option as you are sure to please everyone. When hiring a bar vendor, discuss your needs; they should provide a list of alcohol along with a rough estimate of quantities. Your vendor may have a preferred liquor store, but if not, be sure to clarify their return policy – specifically looking for one that accepts returns on unopened alcohol.
The Cocktails
Signature drinks have remained a popular trend for years. They offer an opportunity to express your personalities, theme colors, or even feature your pets on the drink menu! We always consider the season when selecting cocktails. In the summer, refreshing options like watermelon margaritas or tropical drinks shine, while autumn calls for drinks such as apple cider margs, pumpkin pie mules, and sangrias. Christmas cocktails are always fun and drinks such as Espresso martinis are highly coveted year-round! For non-drinking guests, mocktails can be crafted to mirror the signature cocktails.
The Staff
Another frequent question is, “How much staff do I need?”. Future clients often share stories from weddings they have attended where guests were faced with constant long lines at the bar, or where supplies ran out early. With proper planning, these situations can be avoided. The general rule of thumb is one bartender for about 60 guests, though several factors can influence staffing needs: How many bars will be set up? Will there be a transition from cocktail hour to the reception? What is the drinking preference of your crowd? How extensive will your cocktail menu be? The answers to these questions are essential to providing the appropriate staff and are discussed in the planning phase with our clients.
The Upgrades
Some couples choose to welcome their guests before the ceremony with bubbly, beer, or Aperol spritzes. Additionally, cocktail hour can feature specialty bars, such as a martini or margarita station. A formal toast is a cherished tradition, but it can increase costs if you need to rent glassware and order additional champagne. Many couples opt for a “glass-in-hand” toast with whatever drink guests have at the moment. A nice upgrade is wine service during dinner, allowing guests to enjoy their meals without having to visit the bar.
About the Author
With over 25 years of bartending all types of venues, Sue Vilardi’s love of private weddings and events prevailed, and she launched Set the Bar in 2015, serving LBI and nearby shore areas. Beginning in 2025, the Set the Bar team will proudly serve as the exclusive in-house bar vendor for The Farm on Main in West Creek, while continuing to offer a select number of off-site weddings and events. Set the Bar will also be providing bartenders for the high demand of summer parties on Long Beach Island offering partial to full-service party packages.
For inquiries, reach out to Sue at svilardi50@gmail.com or on Instagram @setthebarsue.
