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How Many Bartenders Do You Need for Your Event? (Chicago Hosting Guide)
- Karina Silvestre
- Dec 7, 2025
- 2 min read
One of the most common questions we get from clients planning a home party, North Shore gathering or corporate event is:
"How many bartenders do I actually need?"
It is so important to plan for this because the number of bartenders directly affects the guest experience drink speed, cleanliness, flow of your event, and how calm or chaotic the night feels.
This guide will break down exactly what you need so that your event is stress free, smooth, and elevated.
Why the Right # of Bartenders Matters
A lot of hosts underestimate this. It isn't just about pouring drinks, it's about keeping lines short, managing ice and garnishes, safe serving, and maintaining flow throughout your home event. A well staffed bar is a luxury bar, and an understaffed bar is absolute chaos. Let's avoid that chaos.
1 bartender for every 40-50 guests (if you're serving simple drinks)
1 bartender for every 30-35 (if you're serving cocktails that require shaking, muddling, or specialty garnishes)
2 bartenders for every 75 guests (this is the smoothest, most luxury setup)
Factors That Change How Many Bartenders You Need
The Type of Drinks You're Serving
Beer + Wine only: fewer bartenders required
Signature Cocktails: need more staff
Mocktails and Garnishes: need more prep
Shaken Drinks: Definitely need more staff
Your Space/ Home Layout
If you're hosting in a North Shore home or Oak Park home, spacing matters.
Tight Areas equal slower service. Large Open Bar equals faster service.
We usually walk clients through their layout and make recommendations.
Length of Event
A 3 hour party= less stress vs a 5-6 hour event which requires more staffing for rotations.
Planning a 2026 Event? Let's Make It Easy.
Whether you're hosting a cozy home event, a North Shore celebration, or a corporate gathering, having the right # of bartenders makes ALL the difference. We would love to help you plan your bar service and recommend the perfect staffing for your guest count.
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