Most private bartenders in NJ charge either a flat hourly rate or a flat event rate. At Neat & Shaken we charge $15 per person with a $350 minimum, and that includes everything except the alcohol - custom cocktail menus, fresh citrus juices, garnishes, cups, ice, bar setup and breakdown. For a 40 person party you're looking at $600 total. Pretty straightforward and no surprises.

It depends who you hire honestly. Some bartenders show up with just their tools and expect you to supply everything else. At Neat & Shaken we bring the full setup - portable bar, fresh ingredients, custom menu signage, cups, napkins, ice, garnishes. You just need to supply the alcohol. The goal is that you actually get to enjoy your own party instead of running around managing the bar situation.

Crowd pleasers that work for parties - a spicy margarita variation, something light and bubbly with elderflower or lychee for the wine drinkers, a classic espresso martini for later in the night, and always a simple refreshing option like a G&T riff for guests who want something lighter. The key is variety - you want something for the tequila person, the vodka person, the whiskey person and the person who isn't really a cocktail drinker.

Start by figuring out your headcount and whether you want a full custom cocktail experience or just someone to manage an open bar. Then reach out at least 2-3 weeks in advance - good bartenders book up fast especially in spring and summer. Ask what they provide, what you need to supply, and whether they can create custom menus for your event. The best bartenders will handle everything and make you feel like a guest at your own party.

Both work depending on what you want. An open bar at a venue is convenient but you're paying venue prices and getting whatever they stock. Private bartending means custom cocktails designed specifically for your event, a more personal experience, and usually significantly better drinks at a fraction of the cost. For house parties and private events private bartending almost always wins on quality and value.