Bartending

Find a bartender near Saint Louis, MO

Find a bartender near Saint Louis, MO

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Top 5 Bartenders near Saint Louis, MO

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How do I find a good bartender?

Put some time on your calendar to research and compare top-rated bartenders near you online. Start by looking at their ratings and services. For example, some bartending services will provide a waitstaff, glassware, ice, coolers, food and more.

Next, look at their photos of past events and read the customer reviews. Find feedback on the bartenders’ services. Did they offer fair pricing? Did they show up on time to set up? Did they bring all of the appropriate drinks, cups, supplies and decorations? Did they interact politely with the party guests and provide a pleasant overall experience? And did they do the agreed-upon cleanup afterward?

Narrow down your top choices, and start contacting the bartenders. Ask for cost estimates for your event, and tell them how many people will be attending, what type of event it is and what services you require. You should also ask them questions about their experience.

Bartenders may need a license in your state, county or city to work at a private party. Make sure they’re properly certified before you hire anyone.

How much does it cost to hire a bartender for a private party?

Hiring a bartender for a private party typically costs between $270 and $390 in total. On an hourly basis, expect to pay at least $40 to $60 per hour, as well as a flat fee. How much you’ll pay, however, depends on the time of year or day, the size of the party and other factors. Get in touch with a few bartenders near you and request a free estimate — it’s the only way to get an accurate idea of how much private bartending services will cost you.

Check out “How much does it cost to hire a bartender?” to learn more about the cost factors.

Do bartenders need to be licensed?

Certain counties, cities and states may require licensing. Check your local government’s regulations before starting your search.

In many cases, you might want to choose a bartender who has a license and/or certification. If you’re considering hiring a bartender for an upcoming event or a special occasional, check their online profiles to find out what credentials they have. If you can’t find the information online, don’t hesitate to ask them directly when requesting to receive free estimates.

What do bartenders cost for a wedding?

It costs roughly between $270 and $390 to hire a bartender. However, if you need a wedding bartender, you should request cost estimates from bartenders near you. Depending on the drinks you plan to serve, the number of guests and other factors, your total cost will vary.

How much should you tip wedding bartenders?

Sometimes, a gratuity is included in your final bill. If not, consider tipping your wedding bartenders between 10% and 15%. However, this is not a set-in-stone rule. You can always tip more, perhaps 20%-25%, for great service.

Reviews for Saint Louis bartenders
LONNIE R.
outstanding bartender very perfessional
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Hannah R.
Rick was an excellent bartender and vibed well with our guests! You can tell he is a reliable and trustworthy guy. We would have him bartend again. Thank you, Rick!
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Ashley M.
Rick did an excellent job on our event! He was very professional, and our guests really enjoyed having him as a bartender!
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Kendall M.
Rick was extremely helpful and enjoyable as our bartender for our holiday party! He mingled great with all the guests and was helpful in preparing delicious drinks!
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Octavia P.
Rick bartended our employee appreciation event and EVERYONE loved him. He was pleasant, personable, and provided flair. We look forward to working with him in the future.
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Kimberly C.
Rick was great and attentive to my needs during the process up to my party! He was very personable and everyone enjoyed him as the bartender. I would hire him again in a heartbeat! Thank you Rick!
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Karyn M.
You will not regret hiring Rick for your event. He was fantastic! It was like having a friend bartend the party--he chatted with everyone and made everyone feel comfortable. AND he makes killer drinks! It was a pleasure working with him.
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Isabella P.
Sean was wonderful! He bartended for my partner’s 30th birthday at our apartment and provided the best service and made the most delicious drinks. He was very flexible and go-with-the-flow, and was able to accommodate everyone effortlessly. You absolutely need to hire Sean for your next party!!!!
“I Do” Cocktails“I Do” Cocktails
Dan L.
Richard tended the bar for a birthday party of 16 people. Planning the party went smoothly. Richard showed up right on time and set up his workstation nicely. Our guests loved having a professional bartender and, as host, I was able to enjoy myself more since I didn't worry about filling everyone's cup.
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
Melissa R.
I hired Rick for our holiday party for 50+ guests. He was quick to respond, super pleasant and doesn’t charge you and arm and a leg. He made bartending look easy even with 3 specialty holiday drinks. Everyone had a great time and it was so nice not to have the pressure of making sure the guests had drinks. Many thanks for a great evening, Rick!!
Rick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, InsuredRick The Martini Man Certified, Licensed, Insured
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