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Creating a DIY Bar Setup: What You Really Need (and When Extra Help Makes Sense)

One of the questions we get asked all the time is whether a DIY bar setup is a good idea. And the honest answer? Sometimes it absolutely is.


There's something really appealing about doing it yourself - it feels relaxed, personal, and a bit more hands-on. For smaller gatherings or hosts who love planning, a DIY bar can work brilliantly.


That said, after years of running bars for weddings, corporate events and private parties across Glasgow and Scotland, we've also seen just how much goes into making it run smoothly.

So rather telling you what you should do, we wanted to share what we've learned from experience - so you can decide what's right for your event.


What's Involved in a DIY Bar Setup


Getting the Alcohol Quantities Right


Planning a bar isn't just about buying alcohol - it's about buying the right amount. Too much can feel wasteful, and too little can cause stress on the night.


When we plan bar set ups, we always consider:


  • Number of guests

  • Length of service

  • Time of day

  • Type of drinks being served


If you enjoy planning and a good spreasheet, this can actually be quite satisfying. If not, it can quickly feel overwhelming - especially when you're already juggling everything else for the event.


Mixers, Garnishes & Ice (Always More Ice)


Ice is the one thing almost everyone underestimates.


For cocktail-style events, we typically allow around 1.5kg of ice per guest, which often surprises people. And that's before you think about everything else that goes into a well-stocked bar, such as:


  • Juices and soft drinks

  • Soda water and tonics

  • Syrups

  • Citrus fruit

  • Fresh herbs

  • Garnish tools

  • Enough glassware for the whole evening


It's all very doable - iit just takes time, planning, storage space, and a bit of organisation.


Bar Tools & Equipment


A smooth-running bar relies on having the right tools to hand.


Shakers, jiggers, strainers, bar mats, coolers, bins - none of these are expensive on their own, but buying everything for a one-off event can add up. Some people love building a bar kit they'll reuse; others would rather not think about it again once the night is over.


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Being the Host and the Bartender


This is something we always gently mention.


Running your own bar means you're also:


  • Refilling ice

  • Cleaning up spills

  • Keeping an eye on stock

  • Making sure guests are served


Some hosts love being involved behind the bar. Others realise halfway through the night that they'd rather be chatting, dancing, and enjoying the moment.


When a Little Extra Help Can Make a Difference


This is where we come in - not because a DIY bar is "wrong", but because sometimes having support simply makes the day easier.


Clients usually choose Pure Bartending because:


  • They want to relax and spend time with guests

  • They don't want to worry about running out of anything

  • They want drinks served smoothly and professionally

  • They want the bar to feel like part of the event, not a task


We bring experience, organisation and calm - and quietly take care of the bar in the background.


Our Approach at Pure Bartending


We don't believe in one-size-fits-all events.


Some clients want full service. Others want help with planning or stock advice. Some just want reassurance before going fully DIY.


If you're weighing up whether to run your own bar or bring a professional team, we're always happy to chat it through. No pressure, no hard sell - just honest advice based on years of experience.



 
 
 

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