A Tribute to Our Bartenders on World Bartender Day
Behind every great wedding celebration, there’s a talented bartender making magic happen. As we celebrate World Bartender Day, let’s raise a glass to our unsung heroes who turn wedding receptions into unforgettable experiences.
Having managed hundreds of wedding celebrations in Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP), we’ve learned the perfect bar service is about more than just pouring drinks. It’s about creating moments, fostering connections, and adding that special touch to life’s biggest celebrations.
Here’s what our years of experience have taught us about crafting the perfect wedding bar experience with the unique flavors of Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) from our Beverage Manager Tony Smith (who was also married at Happy Days Lodge in 2018):
Start with What You Love
The most common mistake couples make is trying to please everyone. Here’s Tony’s golden rule: choose drinks you want to see at your bar. It’s your wedding, and the bar should reflect your taste. Whether you’re passionate about craft beers or natural wines, let your preferences shine through.
Make It Special
One of our favorite traditions is helping couples create signature cocktails. It’s a wonderful way to tell your story through flavors and add a personal touch to your celebration. We often see couples create two unique signature drinks – one from each partner. Today many couples now include non-alcoholic versions too so everyone can take part in the fun.
The Professional Touch
Professional bartenders bring more than just mixing skills to your wedding. They’re experts at reading the room, keeping the atmosphere light and festive, and ensuring everyone stays safe while having a great time. Our team has mastered the art of being both professional and personable.
Planning Makes Perfect
The key to a successful wedding bar isn’t just about what you serve – it’s about how you serve it. We typically start planning with couples three to four months before their big day. This gives plenty of time to customize packages, discuss special requests (like that perfect champagne toast), and ensure everything runs smoothly. From there we will provide a quote and tie everything up two to three weeks before the wedding.
Whether you’re considering carefully curated spirits and craft beers, or a simpler beer and wine service, the goal remains the same: creating a celebration that feels authentically you. After all, your wedding bar should be as unique as your love story.
So today, as we celebrate World Bartender Day, let’s acknowledge these skilled professionals who do so much more than mix drinks. They’re memory makers, celebration facilitators, and the ones who ensure your guests are smiling, your toasts are perfectly timed, and your special day flows as smoothly as the champagne.
Here’s to our bartenders – with more than 20 years of experience at the Conservancy for CVNP- they are the true spirit specialists who help turn wedding dreams into reality, one perfectly crafted drink at a time.
Thank you…
Michael Buebe
Valerie Cross
Adrianna Eidom
Andrius Kijauskas
Shelby Kimberling
Alissa Newberry
Jennifer Yeargin
Bar Packages
Customize your package with additional selections, extra craft beer, signature drinks, or a champagne toast! All packages include 5-hour bar service. Consumption/cash bar information available upon request.
Full Bar – $26 per adult 21+
- 2 White Wines
- 2 Red Wines
- 3 Domestic Beers
- 1 Craft Beer
- Tito’s Vodka, Bombay Gin, Bulleit Bourbon, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Bacari Rum, Espolon Tequila
- Sodas, fresh juices, mixers, fruit & compostable cups
Beer & Wine – $18 per adult 21+
- 3 Domestic Beers/Seltzer
- 1 Craft Beer
- 2 While Wines
- 2 Red Wines
- All sodas & compostable cups
