Planning an unforgettable celebration involves more than just choosing the right venue or entertainment. The drinks you serve—and how they’re served—can set the tone for the entire event. Whether you’re organising a wedding, corporate gathering, or private party, choosing between dry bar hire UK and all-inclusive bar hire is a key decision.
At Ruby’s, we’ve spent over 25 years perfecting mobile bar experiences across the UK. We know that no two events are alike—and that’s why we offer both flexible dry bar hire and fully managed all-inclusive packages. So, which is right for you?
Let’s explore the pros, considerations, and how each service fits different event styles.
What Is Dry Bar Hire?
Dry bar hire means you supply the alcohol, and the bar team takes care of everything else. With Ruby’s dry bar hire UK service, we provide:
- A luxury mobile bar setup
- Expert mixologists
- Cocktail tools and premium glassware
- Custom bar styling to match your event
Ideal For:
- Hosts who want to bring their own drinks or have specific bottles in mind
- Weddings where couples prefer to supply their favourite wines or spirits
- Events with strict budgets or venue restrictions on alcohol service
Benefits of Dry Bar Hire:
- Cost Control: Buying your own alcohol can be more budget-friendly.
- Personal Touch: Serve your favourite brands or local specialties.
- Flexibility: Choose the quantities and types of drinks you want.
That said, dry hire does require more planning on your end—purchasing stock, ensuring variety, and estimating quantities.
What Is an All-Inclusive Bar Hire?
With all-inclusive bar hire, you hand over everything to the professionals. Ruby’s brings the bar, the drinks, the mixologists, and everything in between—so you can simply enjoy the moment.
What’s Included:
- Fully stocked bar with premium spirits, cocktails, mocktails, and mixers
- Award-winning mixologists
- Beautiful bar setup, glassware, and garnishes
- Hassle-free execution, from start to finish
Best Suited For:
- Hosts looking for a turn-key solution
- Corporate events or product launches needing a polished, professional setup
- Weddings where everything must flow seamlessly
Benefits of All-Inclusive:
- Stress-Free: We handle everything—stocking, serving, cleaning up.
- Signature Experience: Guests enjoy expertly crafted drinks without delay.
- Tailored Packages: Menus can be customised to suit your theme, tastes, or wellness preferences.
All-inclusive services do come with a higher investment, but they also deliver unmatched ease and luxury.
Event Bar Hire Comparison: What to Consider
To help you decide, here’s a quick side-by-side:
Feature
| Dry Bar Hire UK
| All-Inclusive Bar Hire
|
Alcohol Provided
| You
| Ruby’s
|
Planning Involved
| Higher
| Minimal
|
Cost
| Potentially lower
| All-in-one premium
|
Staff & Equipment
| Included
| Included
|
Best For | Personal events, DIY weddings | Large-scale or stress-free events |
Why Choose Ruby’s for Your Event Bar Hire?
No matter which service you select, Ruby’s offers something that goes beyond the ordinary. Our approach combines elegance, innovation, and a deep passion for mixology. We’ve elevated celebrations of all shapes and sizes—from stylish soirées in London to cultural festivals across the UK.
Here’s what makes Ruby’s your go-to for event bar hire:
- Award-Winning Mixologists: Inspired by legends like Dick Bradsell, our team crafts drinks that tell stories.
- Innovation Meets Wellness: From espresso martinis to health-conscious mocktails, we stay ahead of the trends in our in-house mixology lab.
- Custom-Tailored Packages: Whether you bring the drinks or leave it all to us, we shape each package around your vision.
- Nationwide Presence: From city rooftops to countryside estates, we bring luxury bar experiences anywhere in the UK.
At Ruby’s, we don’t just serve drinks. We create unforgettable experiences, glass by glass.
FAQs
Q: What’s the main difference between dry bar hire UK and all-inclusive bar hire?
Dry bar hire means you provide the alcohol, while all-inclusive includes everything—drinks, bar, staff, and setup. It depends on how much control or convenience you want.
Q: Can I customise the drinks menu with both options?
Absolutely. Ruby’s works with you to create a bespoke menu, whether you’re supplying your own drinks or selecting from our premium collections.
Q: Is dry bar hire suitable for large events?
Yes, but it requires more planning. You’ll need to ensure you bring enough stock. Our team still delivers a seamless service and professional setup.
Conclusion: Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between dry bar hire UK and all-inclusive bar hire depends on your event goals, budget, and how involved you want to be in the planning. Both offer exceptional experiences—but in different ways.
If you’re after complete ease and a curated luxury experience, go all-inclusive. If you want to personalise your drinks and manage the bar stock yourself, dry hire offers flexibility and control.
Whichever path you choose, Ruby’s ensures your event is stylish, seamless, and unforgettable.
Ready to Make Your Event Exceptional?
Whether you’re planning a wedding, launch party, or private celebration, Ruby’s brings over 25 years of luxury bar experience to your doorstep.
Get in touch today to discuss your perfect bar setup or request a tailored consultation—and let’s bring your vision to life.