How Much Does a Mobile Bar service Really Cost? Richmond 2026 Pricing Guide.
Planning something big in 2026? Maybe you're finally tying the knot and need to figure out wedding drinks. Maybe you're hosting the ultimate Super Bowl watch party and want Super Bowl party drinks that'll impress your crew. Or maybe you've been put in charge of corporate events and have no idea what drinks to cater for a corporate party.
Whatever you're planning, the bar situation can feel overwhelming. Do you DIY it? Hire a full-service bartender? Go with a mobile bar service? And most importantly, what's it actually going to cost?
In this guide, we'll break down the real costs of different bar options for your Richmond event, what the process looks like for each, and help you figure out which one fits your budget, your vibe, and your guests.
Option 1: DIY – Cases, Wine & A Cooler
What It Is:
You hit up the store, buy cases of beer, bottles of wine, maybe some spirits, and set up your own drink station. Ice, coolers, solo cups, and you're done.
Best For:
Small backyard parties (under 30 people)
Casual birthday parties or graduation parties
Budget-conscious hosts who don't mind doing the work
The Process:
You estimate how much people will drink (you'll probably guess wrong), shop for everything, haul it to your venue, keep it cold, and handle cleanup. You're also responsible for making sure you don't run out mid-event.
Average Cost:
Beer: $25-40 per case (24 cans)
Wine: $10-20 per bottle
Spirits: $20-50 per bottle
Mixers, ice, cups: $50-100
Total for 50 guests: $300-$600
Sources: Total Wine & More, BevMo
Pros:
Cheapest option upfront
Total control over what you serve
Works for low-key gatherings
Cons:
Time-consuming (shopping, setup, cleanup)
No professional presentation
Risk of running out or overbuying
You're stuck managing drinks instead of enjoying your event
Limited draft beer options, no fresh craft beer on tap
Option 2: Venue Bar (If Available)
What It Is:
Some event venues have their own bar and bartending staff. You pay a fee or meet a minimum spend, and they handle the drinks.
Best For:
Wedding receptions at established venues
Corporate events at hotels or event spaces
Anyone who wants hands-off drink service
The Process:
The venue provides a set drink menu. Usually standard domestic beers, house wine, and basic spirits. You pay per drink, per person, or hit a beverage package minimum. Limited customization.
Average Cost:
Beverage packages: $25-50 per person
Cash bar: Guests pay $6-12 per drink
Consumption bar: You pay per drink poured
Total for 50 guests (4-hour event): $1,250-$2,500+
Source: The Knot 2024 Real Weddings Study, WeddingWire
Pros:
Completely hands-off
Professional bartenders included
Venue handles permits and liability
Cons:
Expensive, especially at premium venues
Generic drink menu (no craft beer or custom options)
You're locked into their pricing and selection
Often requires meeting high minimums
Option 3: Full-Service Mobile Bartending (Spirits & Mixed Drinks)
Ask about our cocktail and spirits options!
What It Is:
A mobile bartending company brings a portable bar, bartenders, and usually handles spirits, mixers, and cocktails. Think full bar setup with signature cocktails, wine, and standard beers.
Best For:
Weddings wanting signature cocktails
Upscale private parties
Events where guests want mixed drinks and variety
The Process:
You work with the company to pick a drink menu, they bring the bar and staff, mix drinks on-site, and handle service. Some provide alcohol; others require you to purchase it separately.
Average Cost:
Service fee: $500-1,500 (bartenders, setup, bar equipment)
Alcohol cost: $800-2,000 (depends on drink menu and guest count)
Gratuity: 15-20%
Total for 50 guests: $1,500-$4,000+
Sources: Thumbtack Mobile Bar Cost Guide, The Bash Vendor Pricing
Pros:
Professional bartenders and full bar setup
Signature cocktails and craft drink menus
Great for cocktail-forward events
Cons:
Most expensive option
Often generic beer selection (domestic bottles, not craft)
Less focus on beer if you have beer-loving guests
Complex pricing with alcohol, service fees, and gratuity
Option 4: Keg-Based Mobile Bar Service (That's Us)
What It Is:
We bring fresh, locally-brewed craft beer on tap. Including custom kegs designed specifically for your event, along with mobile bar service, keg delivery, and setup. It's beer-focused, hospitality-driven, and way more personal than your standard catering.
Best For:
Beer lovers who want something memorable
Weddings, corporate events, and really any celebration
Anyone who wants local beer, custom brews, or a laid-back vibe
Events where you want a standout drink experience
The Process:
We start with a conversation about your event. Want a custom brew? We'll work with you to create one. Prefer a curated selection of local craft beer? We've got you covered. Then we deliver, set up our tap system, and make sure everything's pouring perfectly. You can even add non-alcoholic options so everyone's included.
Small Batch Brewing Pricing:
Just the keg: $149 (pick-up in Richmond, 23235; includes keg pump)
Keg + delivery & setup: $299 (we bring it, tap it, and make sure it's ready)
Full-service package: $999 (2 custom kegs, 3 hours of bar service, complete setup)
Total for 50 guests (2-keg event with service): $999
Additional kegs available for larger events.
PROS:
Way more affordable than full bar service — you're getting professional mobile bartending, fresh craft beer on tap, and personalized service for a fraction of the cost
Custom brewing options no one else offers— create a beer that's totally yours
Local, Virginia-sourced ingredients — supporting small batch beer and local breweries near me
Hands-on hospitality — we're not just dropping off kegs; we're part of your event
Flexible pricing — from DIY keg pickup to full-service bar packages
Fresh draft beer — way better than bottles or cans from the store
No surprise costs — transparent pricing, no hidden fees
Cons:
Beer-focused (though we do seltzers, shandys, and non-alcoholic options)
Not ideal if your crowd wants a full spirits menu
Requires 4-8 weeks lead time for custom brews
Why Keg-Based Mobile Bar Service Makes Sense
Here's the thing: if you're comparing a keg-based mobile bar to full-service bartending, you're saving $500-$3,000+ while still getting professional service, fresh craft beer, and a drink experience your guests will actually remember.
And if you're comparing it to DIY? You're spending a bit more, but you're getting:
No stress, no shopping, no hauling coolers
Fresh draft beer that tastes way better than warm cans
Custom brewing options other services don't offer
Professional setup and service so you can actually enjoy your event
We're not here to upsell you on something you don't need. If you want a full spirits bar with 10 signature cocktails, we'll point you toward a bartending service. But if you want great beer, a personal touch, and a price that makes sense, that's where we shine.
Ready to Book Your Mobile Bar?
Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, backyard BBQ, or Super Bowl watch party, we're here to make the drinking situation easy, affordable, and unforgettable.
We serve the Greater Richmond area and Central Virginia with keg delivery, mobile bar service, and custom brewing options no one else offers. From office parties and holiday party beer delivery to tailgate service and outdoor events, we've got you covered.