How to Hire a Bartender for your Chicago Corporate Party (Pricing, Event Tips, and What to Expect in 2026)

In 2025, we did SO many corporate events across the Chicagoland area and Northshore, and partnered with many marketing managers, corporate event planners, and office managers to make their events a success. Hiring a professional bartender is the key to a stress free and smooth event.

Why You Should Hire a Bartender for Your Corporate Event in Chicago + The North Shore?

1. Safety

   A trained team ensured that there are proper ID checks, that the pours are controlled, that there is safe service for guests will allergies, and a professional bartender will monitor guest intoxication respectfully. As a corporate host, you shouldn't have to worry about "who had too much" at the office party. A professional bar team gives you peace of mind from the moment that first drink is poured.

2. True Hospitality and Professionalism

   Anyone can pour a drink, but not every person can host. Bartenders are meant to bring a level of warmth, speed, confidence and problem solving across events. Your guests should feel taken care of and you should be able to actually enjoy your office happy hour or client appreciation event.

3. Elevate Presentation & Aesthetic

   Our team understands that aesthetic presentation matters especially in VIP corporate events like brand activations or a client appreciation event. This includes a beautiful styled bar setup, uniformed staff, and signature cocktails that match your theme!

How much does a mobile bartender cost in Chicago? (2025 pricing guide)

One of the the most common questions we hear is "How much does it cost to hire a bartender for my event in Chicago?"

The truth is pricing depending on the level of service, the type of event, and the experience you want your guests to have. At Wee Mixed, we have decades of experience in fine dining, customer service and hospitality so our pricing does reflect that and the experience we give to clients. When inquiring for a mobile bar service in Chicago, on average most companies price themselves between $50-$85.00 per hour for staffing only. Pricing for packages where more materials are included such as ice, coolers, mixers, and garnishes does vary greatly in the Chicagoland area.

2026 Corporate Party Trends in Chicago & The North Shore

Corporate events are evolving fast and as companies in Chicago and the suburbs aim to impress clients and treat employees, the demand for elevated, polished events (not just the usual catered lunch) is rising.

• Weekday Micro Events Instead of Big Annual Galas

Rather than saving celebrations for big end of the year parties, many companies are breaking events into smaller, more frequent weekday activations like team building cocktail classes (we offer virtual and in person mixology classes!), new hire welcome mixers, project kick-off celebrations, and quarterly checkins.

• Wellness Conscious Events: Mocktails, Low Alcohol, Clean Ingredients

Many companies now care about wellness and inclusivity. They request low ABV cocktails, hydrations stations, and N/A options.

• Elevated Employee Appreciation Events (Small yet Frequent)

Companies are recognizing the value of employee morale and culture building. Instead of annual parties, many do smaller, more frequent celebrations like corporate happy hours, summer kick-off events, holiday mini gatherings, and work anniversary celebrations.

Ready to elevate your 2026 corporate event? Book your Chicago Mobile Bartender Today with Wee Mixed

Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering at the office, or planning a gala at the office, the right mobile bar team transforms your night from stressful to effortless. At Wee Mixed, we are committed to bringing calm luxury to every event we touch. From signature cocktails, to corporate micro events, our team handles every detail so you can host with confidence, and enjoy your night. Shoot us an email at hola@weemixed.com to inquire for your next event or give us a call at 708-406-7180