Understanding Mobile Bar Services for Events

At R&R Mobile Bar, we know there are a lot of questions about how mobile bartending actually works—so we’re here to break it all down!

A mobile bar set-up in a client’s home for a private party.

Let’s talk industry

When folks hear “dry-hire” or “mobile bar,” they often have a few questions. First off: dry-hire has nothing to do with dry counties or dry events. And mobile bars aren’t just renovated horse trailers or drink trucks (although we love those too)—this industry is so much more.

Mobile bars vary widely in style and setup, but at their core, they bring a fully equipped bar experience to your chosen location.

What a Mobile Bar Actually Is

So, what is a mobile bar? Simply put, it’s a traveling bar service that sets up at weddings, parties, and private events—think open houses, corporate parties, family reunions, bachelorettes, and more. Mobile bars are ideal for any event that’s not hosted at a venue with a full bar and staff—like entertainment hotels, restaurants, breweries, wineries, country clubs, or traditional banquet halls.

The setup and services offered vary depending on the business. Some provide full-service bars, self-serve tap walls, champagne towers, custom bar structures, or even beautifully restored vintage trailers. Some cater primarily to weddings, while others specialize in house parties and casual gatherings. It all depends on the team behind the business and their bartending philosophy. That variety is a great thing—it means clients can find the perfect service to match their vibe.

At R&R Mobile Bar, we’re a little bit of everything. But before we go into the details, let’s talk about what dry-hire really means.

What Does Dry-Hire Mean?

Dry-hire simply means we don’t provide the alcohol. That’s the client’s one and only responsibility when it comes to bar service.

Like many mobile bars in Tennessee, R&R operates under the dry-hire model because it benefits both us as business owners and you as the client. More on that below!

What’s Included in Most Mobile Bar Services (Especially ours)

Here’s what you can expect a mobile bar to bring to your event—R&R provides all of the following:

Professional, licensed bartenders (1 per 75 guests)
Bar tools (shakers, towels, strainers, bar spoons, jiggers, pour spouts, etc.)
Mixers & garnishes
Coolers or ice bins
Bar setup
Plastic cups, straws, and napkins
Large glass containers for batched cocktails and/or water
Customized drink menus
A personalized shopping list tailored to your guest count and drink choices

We keep things simple and flexible. Our inclusive packages cover everything you’ll need, and we offer easy-to-understand add-ons if you want to include extras (like a champagne toast, non-alcoholic drinks, or a hydration station).

Benefits of Hiring a Mobile Bar

Personal and tailored service
Convenient (set up anywhere: backyard, barn, rooftop, etc.)
Cost control—especially with dry-hire models
Adds a special touch that feels professional and celebratory
You’re not relying on a venue’s limited bar options

Dry Hire vs. Full-Service Bar: What’s the Difference?

A dry-hire mobile bar (like R&R) brings everything except the alcohol. That might sound counterintuitive at first, but trust us—it’s a smart move.

Why We Love the Dry-Hire Model:

Lower alcohol costs
- Clients can buy in bulk and many stores accept returns of unopened bottles and untapped kegs.
Better value per drink
- Let’s break it down: a handle of bourbon (1.75L) makes ~30 drinks with a standard 2oz pour. At a traditional bar, those drinks could cost $10–$20 each. That’s up to $450 in drinks—versus around $50 for the bottle itself.
Full control over selection
- Stock your favorite local beers, wines, bourbons, and seltzers—you don’t have to cross your fingers and hope the venue bar carries them.

This model works especially well in Tennessee, where mobile bar businesses face strict (and costly) alcohol sales laws. By letting clients supply the alcohol, we avoid the need for a liquor license—keeping things legal, simple, and budget-friendly. It’s a win-win.

When Should You Book a Mobile Bar?

Mobile bar services aren’t just for weddings—though that’s definitely the most common use! They’re also perfect for:

Engagement parties
Birthdays
Reunions
Corporate events
Open houses
Baby showers
BBQs
Bachelor & bachelorette parties
...and more
Even smaller events (20–40 guests) can benefit from having a pro bartender on-site. R&R offers custom pricing for events with fewer than 50 guests to help you save even more.
And remember—you shouldn’t be stuck bartending at your own party. You deserve to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the moment. That’s what we’re here for.
Pro tip: Mobile bars book up fast during wedding season! But we’re always excited to bartend unique events—like your annual Masters watch party or neighborhood block bash.

This is your sign to hire a mobile bar

At R&R Mobile Bar, we’re always happy to walk our clients through the process. We know event planning involves a million moving parts, and our goal is to make drink service the easy part.