Hiring a professional bartender service at first glance may seem like a straightforward task. However, there are a multitude of factors, nuances, and variables to consider before settling on the best service for your event or establishment. I myself have been in the position of hiring a bartender service and in retrospect, I recognize that had I been privy to a few key pieces of information, the outcome could have been more successful. In light of this, I have compiled a list of nine points I wish I had known prior to contracting a bartender service.

• The Broad Spectrum of Bartending Service Offerings

Bartending services are not a uniform entity, but rather, they span a wide range of offerings. They vary significantly in terms of their specialization, from mixologists who are akin to liquid chefs, creating bespoke cocktails with precision and flair, to flair bartenders who incorporate juggling and other visually enticing tricks into their service, to sommeliers who possess an in-depth knowledge of wines. Each of these can add a unique appeal to an event or establishment, but it's crucial to align your choice with the tone you wish to set.

• The Weight of Experience

In Bartender Services, as in many other professions, experience carries a significant weight. An experienced bartender has an arsenal of skills honed over the years that allows them to handle varying scenarios with aplomb, be it a disgruntled customer or a sudden surge in patrons. However, the trade-off is the potential higher cost associated with such experience.

• The Importance of Certification

While not required in all regions, a bartender certification can attest to a bartender's knowledge and skills. It can also demonstrate their understanding of responsible serving practices, which is critical when it comes to minimizing potential legal liabilities related to alcohol service. Fewer liabilities can mean lower insurance premiums, a significant cost saving for businesses.

• The Utility of a Mock Service

A mock service, or a trial run, can be a valuable tool for assessing a bartender service's competence and compatibility with your event or establishment. This allows you to gauge how they handle real-time scenarios, their proficiency, and their overall demeanor. While it may come with an additional cost, the value derived can be worth the investment.

• The Nature of Bartender Wages

Bartenders typically earn a combination of wages and tips. While this can reduce the upfront cost to the employer, it's important to understand that this potentially variable income can impact the level of service provided. A bartender who is assured of a solid wage may be more inclined to go the extra mile in service delivery.

• The Impact of Bartender Personality

The bartender often sets the tone for an event or establishment. Therefore, their demeanor, approachability, and ability to interact with customers can significantly impact the overall experience. This means that hiring should not solely be based on technical skills, but also on personality fit.

• The Consequence of Understaffing

Understaffing bars can lead to delays, frustrated customers, and diminished service quality. The operational efficiency theorem in economics suggests that the staffing levels should match the demand to maximize output and minimize waiting time. Therefore, it is crucial to estimate expected patronage accurately and staff accordingly.

• The Legal Implications

Laws governing alcohol service vary widely and can have significant consequences if breached. It is therefore imperative to understand local laws and ensure that the hired service is well versed in them. This includes regulations related to age restrictions, hours of service, and alcohol handling and storage.

• The Value of Contractual Clarity

A well-structured contract can spell out expectations, responsibilities, and liabilities, thus minimizing future disputes. It should detail aspects like service hours, bartender attire, provision of bar tools and equipment, and cancellation terms. The contract can be seen as a type of insurance policy, guaranteeing the agreed-upon services.

In conclusion, hiring a bartender service is not a decision to be taken lightly, but rather, it requires careful consideration and planning. Understanding the diverse landscape of bartending services, recognizing the importance of experience and certification, appreciating the value of a mock service, comprehending the wage structure, recognizing the impact of bartender personality, being aware of the consequences of understaffing, knowing the legal implications, and ensuring contractual clarity are all critical in this process. Informed decisions, like in the game of chess, can lead to successful outcomes, and as such, these nine points serve as a guideline towards making a successful bartender service hiring decision.