Can I hire a bartender without renting a full bar setup?
The short answer is yes—you can absolutely hire a bartender without renting a full bar setup! In fact, many bartending services in California, including By the Hour Bartending, specialize in sending out professional bartenders for events without requiring you to rent an expensive bar setup.
This option is perfect for people planning casual parties, backyard weddings, birthday celebrations, or small events who want great service without spending too much money on equipment.
In this article, we’ll explain how it works, what’s included, and what you need to provide when hiring just a bartender.
What Does “Bartender Only” Mean?
When you see services offering “bartender only” or “mobile bartender without full bar setup,” it means:
A certified bartender will come to your event.
They bring their own bartending kit (tools like shakers, strainers, etc.).
You provide the alcohol, mixers, cups, ice, and a table or counter to use as the bar.
This setup works well if you already have a space in mind—like a kitchen island, folding table, patio counter, or even a decorated bar cart.
You still get the professional service, but without paying for large bar rentals or add-ons that you may not need.
Why This Option is Popular in California
Many people across Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino choose this low-cost option because:
It’s budget-friendly
Most parties already have a space that can act as a “bar”
Bartenders bring their own tools
You get more control over your setup and alcohol costs
It works for backyard events, weddings, and home parties
Companies like By the Hour Bartending make it simple by providing just the staff—no bulky equipment rentals required.
What the Bartender Will Bring
When you hire a bartender without the full setup, you’re not getting nothing—they still come prepared! A good bartending company will ensure your bartender arrives with:
Bartending tools (shaker, jigger, bottle opener, bar spoon, strainer)
A custom cocktail menu (if you want one)
A shopping list of what to buy for your event
Experience with 50+ events
Certification (TIPS, ServSafe, ABC, etc.)
A professional attitude and event-appropriate outfit
With just these tools, your bartender can mix margaritas, mojitos, martinis, whiskey sours, and much more—just like they would behind a real bar.
What You Need to Provide
Since you’re not renting a full bar, here’s what you should prepare:
A flat surface for them to work on (table, kitchen counter, bar cart, etc.)
Alcohol (beer, wine, spirits)
Mixers (soda, tonic, juices)
Ice
Cups or glasses
Garnishes (lemons, limes, mint, etc.)
A trash bin or bucket
Don’t worry about figuring this all out alone—many services provide a free shopping list based on your menu and guest count, making it easy to buy the right amount.
Optional: Add a Server or Barback
Even without a full setup, you can still add extra help:
A barback helps your bartender restock and keep things running smoothly.
A server can walk around with trays and collect empty glasses.
These extras are totally optional, but for larger events (50+ guests), they’re worth considering.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices will vary depending on the location and company, but here’s an average:
Bartender only: $59/hour
Barback (optional): $50/hour
Server (optional): $40/hour
By hiring just the bartender, you skip rental costs for bars, coolers, décor, and furniture—saving hundreds of dollars.
Companies like By the Hour Bartending offer transparent pricing, so you only pay for what you actually need.
How to Book Without the Setup
Booking is easy and doesn’t take more than a few minutes. Here's what to do:
Visit the bartender service’s website.
Click “Book Now.”
Enter your event info: date, time, location, number of guests.
Choose “Bartender Only” or similar package.
Add optional services like barbacks or servers if needed.
Complete payment online.
You’ll receive a confirmation and follow-up email.
Many services, including By the Hour Bartending, don’t require long forms or contracts. It’s a quick and simple process.
You don’t need to rent a full bar setup to have an amazing bartender at your party. Whether it’s a wedding in San Diego, a backyard BBQ in Riverside, or a birthday in Los Angeles, hiring a bartender without the full setup is a smart, affordable option.
You’ll still get professional service, personalized cocktails, and happy guests—without the extra costs or bulky equipment.
Just provide a table, your favorite drinks, and a little ice—and let the bartender handle the rest!
If you’re ready to hire a bartender in California without all the extras, check out By the Hour Bartending. Their team covers San Diego, LA, Riverside, Orange County, and more—with certified bartenders, flat rates, and no bar rentals needed.
