Booking & Payment

Q: What happens after I book?
Once your contract is signed and the $100 non-refundable retainer is paid, your date is officially reserved! You’ll then receive a confirmation email and a brief follow-up consultation to discuss your bar setup, menu preferences, and event details. Final payment is due by the date listed in your contract.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
You can pay via cashier’s check, business check, cash, money order, Cash App, PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle. Personal checks are not accepted.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to starlitbartending@gmail.com, followed by a call or text. Please note that retainers are non-refundable.

Before the Event

Q: Do I need to get an ABC license or event insurance?
For most event spaces, YES. The client is responsible for obtaining a one-day Virginia ABC license and any required event insurance (some venues require this). You can easily purchase insurance at www.eventhelper.com. Please check with your venue for their specific requirements prior to finalizing your desired bartending service.

Q: Can I make changes to my package after booking?
Yes, but any new requests (like adding bartenders, upgrading glassware, venue requirements or changing venues) may result in additional costs and must be agreed upon in writing. You’ll receive an updated invoice for any add-ons.

Day of the Event

Q: When will the bartender arrive?
Your bartender will arrive early enough to set up the bar area before service begins. Setup and breakdown time are not charged — you only pay for the actual event hours.

Q: How long are bartending services?
All packages include a 4-hour minimum.

Q: What happens if guests become unruly or intoxicated?
Safety is our top priority. We reserve the right to stop service or end the contract immediately if guests become belligerent, threatening, or unsafe. We also may refuse service to anyone visibly intoxicated or underage.

Signature Drinks & Tastings

Q: Do you offer tastings for custom or signature cocktails?
Yes! Tastings are available for $100 for any package that includes a custom or signature cocktail menu. You’ll get to sample and finalize your drink selections before your event.

Q: Can you help create a custom drink menu?
Absolutely! Every event with a signature drink package includes personalized menu planning and a shopping guide to make your selections easy.

Gratuity

Q: Is gratuity included?
A 30% gratuity is standard for all bartending services. If at least 30% in gratuity is not received during your event (through guest tips), the difference will be invoiced after the event and must be paid within 5 business days.

Travel & Mileage

Q: Do you charge for travel?
Travel within 120 miles round-trip of Sandston, VA is included. For events beyond that distance, a $125 fee applies to help cover overnight accommodations.

Other Common Questions

Q: Do you provide garnishes?
Yes. Basic garnishes include cherries, lemons, limes, mint sprigs, and/or oranges. Specialty garnishes can be added upon request.

Q: What types of beverages do you serve?
We serve mixed drinks, beer, wine, water, soda, and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol is supplied by the client. **PLEASE NOTE: AS OF MAY 2025, NO OPENED ALCOHOL WILL BE ACCEPTED TO SERVE AT THE BAR. ALL ALCOHOL MUST BE SEALED/UNOPENED UPON RECEIVING FROM CLIENT.**