For a reception where guests want to talk, use a clear drinks choice and a bar position they can reach without leaving the gathering. Whether drinks are ordered at the bar or carried on trays changes the staffing and preparation required.
Choose how the first drink reaches the guest
If most guests arrive together, explain that opening wave when planning the team. Select drinks from the existing Cocktailhire menu and keep the choice easy to understand. A long menu is not automatically a better reception experience.
Tray service can support arrivals, but it needs an agreed drinks format, suitable preparation and people assigned to carry and clear glasses. Do not assume those duties are included in bartender-only hire. If the hotel handles wine and reception trays, a separate cocktail station may be the cleaner division of work.
- Agree bar ordering, tray delivery and glass collection separately.
- Confirm the guest count and the time available before dinner.