Cash bars. It's a topic that gets many people hot under the collar, particularly if you're on the guest side of the spectrum.
As far as tradition goes, the general assumption is that it's pretty inconsiderate to have one. You are, after all, making your guests pay to have drinks at YOUR wedding when they're already giving you an expensive gift.
But then, is it your responsibility to get your guests drunk? And with the current state of the economy, couples who are planning their wedding have it quite tough. Things aren't getting any cheaper, and combined with other wedding expenses, opting to go for a cash bar is definitely something that helps to alleviate some of the costs involved.
We asked our readers what they thought of having a cash bar at a wedding.
Check out some of their responses below:
Lerato: It's affordable, manageable and practical. Guests can be wasteful.
Lynette: This is a tough one because everyone expects to get drinks at a wedding, but in this tough economic climate this might not be a bad idea. On the other hand, does the couple want to offend everyone? I don't know if I'd be brave enough to do this.
Yolande: Supply the champagne and maybe one round for the guests. Thereafter guests can pay for themselves. You also find people are better behaved than when alcohol has a fee.
Lize: We are providing wine, beer, soft drinks and bubbly (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) at our wedding - anything else people need to pay for themselves (this is shooters and spirits). Most weddings we have been to, have gone this route.
Namhla: Totally against it. The least you can do is provide selected cheaper drinks (wine, beers, etc), and just not have any whisky, shooters, champagne etc.
Hlengiwe: Provide soft drinks, fruit juice, mineral water. Cash bar for the liquor. It saves money and it ensures good behaviour from the guests.
Catherine: Weddings are pricey to arrange! A free bottle of red and white wine and a bottle of champagne per table is perfect, but real friends won't mind paying for the rest!!
Tamarryn: For the idea. I don't drink alcohol, so why should I pay for others to drink. It will save money. I don't want drunk people at my wedding. It's supposed to be a special memorable day, so that's another way to keep people well behaved.
Jessy: In Europe it's unacceptable as far as I know, but I got used to it here in South Africa. Weddings are expensive to attend.
What's your take on this? Are you for or against the idea of having a cash bar at your wedding? Share your thoughts with us in the comment box below.