Beer, wine, and spirits split guide

The split should match the event

A brunch, formal dinner, summer outdoor wedding, and late-night party can each need a different mix.

• Wine-heavy splits can fit seated dinners.
• Beer-heavy splits can fit casual receptions.
• Spirits require mixers, ice, garnishes, and venue service approval.

Keep the total at 100%

The calculator validates the split so wine, beer, and spirits add up to a complete drink mix.

• Move percentage points between categories rather than adding extra.
• Use a beer-and-wine-only plan by setting spirits to 0%.
• Plan alcohol-free options outside this split.

Beer and wine only wedding alcohol estimate

Set spirits to zero and split the estimate between beer and wine.

Set the split deliberately

For a beer-and-wine-only wedding, the drink mix still needs to total 100%. Set spirits to 0 and divide the rest between wine and beer.

• Use a wine-heavy split for seated dinners if that fits the guest list.
• Use a beer-heavy split for more casual or outdoor receptions.
• Plan sparkling wine or toast drinks separately if needed.

Do not forget non-alcohol supplies

Removing spirits simplifies the bar, but it does not remove the need for water, soft drinks, ice, glassware, and service rules.

• Confirm the venue allows outside alcohol.
• Ask whether unopened wine or beer can be returned.
• Plan alcohol-free options outside the beer and wine split.

Beer and wine split examples

The beer and wine split examples reference keeps the relevant comparisons together so each assumption can be checked before changing the calculator inputs.

• Plan: Dinner-led; Wine share: 60%; Beer share: 40%
• Plan: Balanced; Wine share: 50%; Beer share: 50%
• Plan: Casual beer-led; Wine share: 35%; Beer share: 65%

Drink split examples