Planning a party takes time, and the drinks are often the detail that can make or break the experience. If you’ve ever hosted and found yourself behind the kitchen counter mixing drinks all night, you know how fast the fun disappears. That’s where private bartending services come in.
Hiring a bartender for a private event means you can actually enjoy your own party while a professional handles the cocktails, setup, and flow. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, backyard dinner, or corporate gathering, bringing in a personal bartender adds style and ease to any occasion.
Here’s what to expect when hiring a bartender for a private party, with a few tips tailored to booking in Montreal, where MTL Craft Cocktails is proudly based (in case the name didn’t give it away).
A private bartender does more than just serve drinks. They manage everything bar-related so you don’t have to.
Depending on the service package, you can expect:
Some bartenders will also help you plan what alcohol to buy. They provide a shopping list based on your guest count and drink selection so you know exactly what to get. This is usually the most cost-effective option, especially if you’re buying from the SAQ. Any leftover alcohol can often be returned (if unopened), or saved for your next gathering.
Alternatively, most private bartending services will supply the alcohol themselves and include it in the final price. This is more convenient, since you don’t have to shop, transport, or think about inventory, but it does typically come at a higher overall cost.
Private bartenders are booked for a wide range of events:
The setup can scale depending on the size of your event and your vision. Whether you’re hosting 10 friends or 100 guests, a good private bartender can adapt to the space and vibe.
Many private bartending services will provide not just a single bartender, but a full team when needed, based on the size and style of your event. They take care of everything from staffing to making sure there is enough glassware, mixers, garnishes, and alcohol to last for the entire duration of your party. Whether it’s a quick two-hour 5 à 7 or an all-day celebration, they come prepared.
Experienced bartenders also understand how different types of events affect how people drink. Guests tend to consume more alcohol at weddings or milestone birthdays than they do at a casual office cocktail hour. This kind of experience allows private bartending teams to calculate exactly how much of everything is needed. They know how to stock properly so you don’t run out mid-party, which is a common issue when hosts try to manage it all themselves.
By trusting professionals, you can feel confident that your guests will be served smoothly from start to finish, without running dry or scrambling for extra supplies.
Private bartender prices in Montreal vary depending on the details of your event. Factors that affect the cost include:
Private bartender pricing can vary depending on the size of your event, how long it runs, and what’s included in the service. Most private bartending services in Montreal charge somewhere between $10 to $40 per guest per hour, depending on your menu, setup needs, and whether alcohol is included.
For example:
Some companies also offer flat-rate packages for smaller events or all-inclusive options that bundle staffing, setup, ingredients, and alcohol. If you're providing your own alcohol, your overall costs will usually be lower. If the bartending service is supplying everything, you’ll pay a bit more for the convenience, but you won’t have to lift a finger.
Tipping is always appreciated and often expected when hiring a bartender for a private party. A standard tip is:
Some companies include gratuity in their final invoice, while others leave it to the client’s discretion. It’s a good idea to confirm tipping expectations during the booking process.
There are a few clear benefits to bringing in a professional:
Bartenders also help pace the flow of the evening and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
If you're planning a party in Montreal and want a professional, stylish bar experience, MTL Craft Cocktails offers full-service private bartending for events of all kinds. We create custom cocktail menus, bring everything you need for a smooth setup, and work with you to make your event feel personal and effortless.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed gathering or a high-energy celebration, we’ll make sure your drinks are on point from start to finish.
Ready to hire a bartender for your private event?
Let’s make your cocktail vision happen. Get in touch →
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