Mobile bartending company for weddings and events

Run a small team of bartenders and a portable bar for weddings and corporate events across your region.

Bartender preparing drinks at a wedding or corporate party.
Startup costC$3k to C$15k
Monthly revenueC$3k to C$15k
Time needed20+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • C$3k-15k
  • Part-time
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.

What it is

A bartending company that sends trained bartenders with a portable bar, glassware and equipment to events. Depending on local rules, you may help clients arrange the alcohol and permits, or work with licensed venues and caterers.

Your first three steps

  1. Check with your provincial liquor regulator what a business must hold to supply alcohol or bar service at events, and what your clients must arrange
  2. Build a simple package menu with prices, then buy a portable bar, tools and glassware or arrange rentals
  3. Meet wedding planners, venues and caterers, and offer a discounted first event to collect photos and reviews
Who pays

Couples planning weddings, companies holding parties and launches, and venues or caterers that need bar staff.

How it makes money

Packages priced per event, per bartender hour or per guest count, with extras for the bar setup, glassware and mixers. Repeat corporate clients and planner referrals help fill the calendar.

Skills that help
  • Hiring and scheduling reliable bartenders
  • Quoting and event planning
  • Sales and relationships with planners and venues
Watch out for
  • Liquor licensing or permit rules differ by province and may restrict who can sell or supply alcohol, check before taking bookings
  • Commercial general liability insurance with liquor liability cover
  • If you hire staff, check WCB/WSIB registration and employment rules in your province, including whether they are employees or contractors
  • Check whether the municipality or venue sets extra rules for outdoor or non-venue events
  • Seasonality: weddings often peak in summer and early autumn, so plan for quieter winter months with holiday parties

🔒 Full research report for Canada

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a mobile bartending business in Canada?

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your portable bar, glassware, equipment and how large a team you plan to run. These are estimates, so price your own setup before committing.

How much can a mobile bartending company make?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many events you book and how large your team is. Weddings often peak in summer and early autumn, so winter months may be quieter.

Do I need a licence to run a mobile bar in Canada?

Liquor licensing or permit rules differ by province and may restrict who can sell or supply alcohol, so check before taking bookings. Also check liquor liability insurance, WCB/WSIB rules if you hire staff, and any municipal or venue rules.

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Photo: landersb on Pixabay

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