A little party never killed anybody. While alcohol can add life to the party, liquor also adds to the liability of those who are planning the event. Risk management has to be on-point so attendees can have a tipsy time while also staying safe.
Here is everything to be considered when having alcohol at an event.
Licenses and Liability
Certain states require a ‘full liquor’ license or a ‘beer and wine only’ license. Normally only restaurants, hotels, caterers, or venues carry these licenses. Some states or counties require extensive information such as floor plans, the landlord’s signature, and even an alcohol menu before being allowed to serve alcohol. For example, the liquor license laws in Las Vegas (say that 3 times fast) are CRAZY strict. Make sure to check out local laws so all permits are in order before the event.
To have all bases covered, Liquor Liability Insurance is a must. This can protect the event planner in the event that an incident occurs. This insurance protects against an employee, customer, or if a guest causes physical harm to themselves, others, or property.
Security
Having a little muscle on-site for an event is beneficial, and can be fun to look at. Security gives the event planner and the attendees a sense of calm knowing that there is someone there in case anything gets out of hand.
When there are attendees of all ages, there has to be a security system in place to identify minors. Establish a booth, separate from the bar, where there is security checking ID’s and providing guests with wristbands or a visible marking.
Did you ever have the large “X” in sharpie put on your hand by a bouncer when you went to a concert or an 18 and over bar?
Established security systems allow the bartenders peace of mind when serving alcoholic beverages. Not only will lines move quicker throughout the night, but security will be able to quickly determine if an underage attendee is drinking something they shouldn’t. This allows your team to be proactive and handle the situation before the situation becomes out of hand.
“Let them eat cake!”-Marie Antoinette
In order to limit the level of intoxication of the guests, food should be provided. Only providing guests with alcohol and no food is just an accident waiting to happen. Alcohol caterers have been known to decline an event if food is not being served because they don’t want to be held accountable if someone is “three sheets to the wind” and hurts themselves.
Hire professional bartenders
Bartenders who have been in the biz for a while know when someone has reached their limit. They are also more accurate with their measurements and are less likely to over-pour the drinks. Professional bartenders must carry an Alcohol Awareness card to show that they have taken a course on how to serve responsibly. Ensure that their card is always up to date and not expired before serving at an event.
Get home safe!
Having alternative transportation in place for those who have potentially had too much to drink should be a top priority. Consider having cabs parked in front of the venue, waiting for people. Providing a rideshare coupon is a great option; what guest wouldn’t love a $10 off your first Uber ride when you use code NortonNational (don’t bother using this, it won’t work)? Shuttles or limousines are a swanky touch, too!
Boundaries
Decide what style event you are throwing. If the event is a music festival, let the people drink!
If you want your company mixer to stay a bit more ‘PG’, consider serving beer and wine, and keep the liquor away. This can save money and reduce the level of intoxication of the guests.
Or have a ticket system that limits the number of drinks each person can have.
Or or! Limit the hours of the bar. Close the bar during dinner so everyone can eat and sober up, then go home. Another possibility is closing the bar an hour before the event ends so everyone can wind down.
Responsible serving is incredibly important for the safety of all parties. Ensure that the guests are having a great time while being safe. Be sure to read up on all of our other liquor blogs here!
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