What to know before you book
Planning an event should feel exciting, not overwhelming. So, we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions about The Wandering Barrel Co. right here. From what we provide to how our mobile bartending service works, this FAQ is designed to give you clear, straightforward details so you can book with confidence and focus on enjoying your event.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Before you reach out, it helps to think about the vibe of your event and what you’d love your guests to be drinking. Getting married? Decide if you want ‘his and hers’ signature cocktails, a fully customized cocktail menu, or a simple classic bar. Think about what alcohol you’d like to serve, and what kind of crowd you’re expecting, fun shooters for a younger group, spirit-forward drinks like old fashioneds for an older crowd, or even a full mocktail bar for corporate or alcohol-free events. You don’t need all the answers, but having a general idea of your guest count, budget, and drink style gives us a great starting point. We’ll guide you the rest of the way with advice based on our experience and past events.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
When you’re hiring a mobile bartending service, don’t just look at price look at professionalism, communication, and experience. Ask whether they’re licensed, how many similar events they’ve done, and what’s actually included in their quote so there are no surprises later. Make sure they’re willing to help you plan a menu and shopping list instead of just ‘showing up to pour,’. Pay attention to how quickly and clearly, they communicate from the first message. A great provider should feel like a partner in your event, not just another vendor.
What should the customer know about your pricing?
Our packages start at $500 for a basic setup and increase based on guest count, hours of service, travel distance, and menu customization (ex. premium artisan syrups or a full mocktail bar). We are upfront about all costs, including any travel or add-on fees; and don’t believe in surprise charges.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We start by confirming the basics of the event (date, location, guest count, and style) and providing a base quote. The next step would be to discuss details, through message or phone call, to design your bar menu. We will confirm what we are supplying versus what you’ll purchase ahead of the event. Finally, we will decide on signature drinks and/or mocktails. When all details are finalized, a written plan will be sent via email; so you know exactly what to buy, when we’ll arrive, and how service will flow.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
We only hire seasoned, professional bartenders with real industry experience, not hobbyists. We have over 20 years of combined bartending experience in busy restaurants, bars, and casinos. We’re used to handling high-volume events while keeping service smooth. Every bartender is fully ABC licensed in the state of Tennessee (Not required in Virginia) and trained to serve safely and responsibly, so you can relax knowing your bar is in experienced hands.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
We started The Wandering Barrel the way many great bar stories begin behind a busy bar, side by side. Years of working together in restaurants, bars, and casinos taught us how much a great bartender can elevate an event and how disappointing it feels when the bar is an afterthought. While planning our own wedding, we saw firsthand how hard it was to find bartenders who cared as much about the experience as the drinks. So, we created the kind of service we wished we could hire ourselves: professional, craft-focused bartending with a personal, genuinely invested touch. Today, we treat every event like it’s our own celebration, bringing that same energy, attention to detail, and hospitality to each pour.
What types of customers have you worked with?
We’ve worked with a wide range of customers, including those planning weddings, corporate events, private parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and even celebrations of life. Any occasion where people gather, a Wandering Barrel bar has a way of elevating the event and making it feel more special.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
One recent project we’re especially fond of was a creative cocktail development session where we experimented with floral sweeteners like rose sugar and violet syrups. Within a couple of days, we had perfected one of the best syrups we’ve ever made for a hand-stirred violet old fashioned, and it’s since become a guest favorite. All premium ingredients are limited and dependent on the season.