FAQs

FAQs2025-06-18T20:45:10+00:00
Are your bartenders and event staff licensed and insured?2025-06-18T20:32:43+00:00

Yes. All National Bartender Staffing bartenders are certified and trained through our own National Bartending School, and we carry general liability insurance. If your venue requires additional documentation, we can provide a Certificate of Insurance upon request.

We background check and vet all of our event bartenders and staff.

Are your bartenders certified?2025-06-18T19:53:21+00:00

Yes. All of our bartenders are certified through National Bartending School, with training in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service (including TIPS or LEAD certification where required by law). They’re not only skilled but also professional, punctual, and polished.

Are your bartenders insured?2025-06-18T19:53:00+00:00

Yes. We carry general liability insurance, and additional insurance coverage can be arranged depending on the venue’s requirements. Please let us know in advance if your venue requires a Certificate of Insurance (COI).

Can I bartend with no experience?2025-06-18T20:17:58+00:00

Yes, if you’ve completed a proper training program. Our agency places newly certified bartenders at smaller events or under the guidance of lead staff to help them gain real-world experience. You’ll build confidence quickly with our support.

Can I hire a bartender without a full bar setup?2025-06-18T20:33:21+00:00

Absolutely. Our bartenders bring their own tools (shakers, bottle openers, pour spouts, etc.), and we can recommend or provide portable bar rentals if needed. Even a folding table and linen can work with the right setup!

Do I need a permit to serve alcohol at my event?2025-06-18T20:33:03+00:00

It depends on your location and venue. Private events at private residences usually don’t require a permit, but public venues, parks, or open bar services may need one. We can guide you or recommend resources to help with compliance.

Do I need prior experience to get staffing jobs?2025-06-18T20:07:28+00:00

Not necessarily. If you’ve completed our certified training and passed your final exam, we’ll help you gain experience through smaller or supervised events before sending you to high-volume or solo gigs.

Do I need to provide alcohol and mixers for the bartender?2025-06-18T20:33:47+00:00

Yes, most staffing agencies—including ours—do not provide alcohol due to legal restrictions. However, we help you create a shopping list, estimate quantities, and plan your drink menu. Some clients source their own ingredients, while others work with caterers or beverage delivery services.

Do you provide alcohol or mixers?2025-06-18T19:58:40+00:00

We do not sell or supply alcohol, but we’re happy to create a curated shopping list for you based on your guest count and drink menu. Some clients prefer to source their own ingredients, while others work with a caterer or liquor store partner we can recommend.

Do you vet your bartenders and catering staff?2025-06-18T20:19:32+00:00

Yes—thoroughly. All of our bartenders and catering staff go through a multi-step vetting process to ensure professionalism, skill, and reliability. Here’s what that includes:

  • Training & Certification: All bartenders are certified through National Bartending School, trained in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service (TIPS or LEAD certified as required).

  • Hands-On Testing: Before working events, each team member is evaluated in real-world bar simulations to ensure they’re confident behind the bar.

  • Background Checks: We conduct background screenings as needed based on event type and client requirements.

  • Experience Review: We assess each staff member’s event experience and skills, placing them in appropriate roles to ensure quality service.

  • Professional Standards: Punctuality, appearance, communication, and attitude all play a role in whether someone becomes part of our active event team.

When you book with National Bartender Staffing, you can trust that your event will be staffed with qualified, polished, and dependable professionals—every time.

Do your bartenders bring their own tools or bar setup?2025-06-18T19:53:12+00:00

Yes. Our bartenders arrive with their own basic bartending tools (shakers, bottle openers, pour spouts, etc.). If you need a full bar setup—including tables, bar backs, or portable bars—we can provide that as an add-on or recommend trusted rental vendors.

How can I grow within your company?2025-06-18T20:09:54+00:00

We love promoting from within. Top-performing bartenders can become lead bartenders, event supervisors, or even instructors at National Bartending School. Many go on to open their own businesses or take on long-term contracts through our agency.

How do I get a bartending job through a staffing agency?2025-06-18T20:32:54+00:00

Start by completing a certified bartending course—ideally through National Bartending School. Once you’re certified, apply through our staffing portal. We’ll onboard you, provide additional event training, and start assigning you gigs based on your availability and experience.

How do I get hired as a bartender with you?2025-06-18T20:34:16+00:00

Start by completing a bartending certification at one of our National Bartending School locations. From there, we’ll onboard you into our staffing network, provide additional event training, and start matching you with gigs that fit your availability and skill level.

How do I get paid?2025-06-18T20:34:07+00:00

Most bartenders are paid within a few days after an event, either via direct deposit or a payment method agreed upon during hiring. Some events may offer cash tips, which are yours to keep unless otherwise specified.

How far in advance should I book a bartender?2025-06-18T20:10:29+00:00

For weekend events, we recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance. For weddings and large events, the earlier the better—ideally 3–6 months out—especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays.

How many bartenders do I need for 100 guests?2025-06-18T20:33:11+00:00

For a full bar, we recommend 1 bartender per 50–75 guests. So for 100 guests, 2 bartenders ensure smooth, fast service. Add barbacks or extra help for high-volume events or complex drink menus.

How much do bartenders make working events?2025-06-18T20:18:31+00:00

Event bartenders typically earn $20–$40+ per hour, depending on experience and event type. Many events include tips, which can significantly boost your pay. Some premium or wedding gigs pay flat rates of $200–$500+ per shift.

How much does it cost to hire a bartender for an event?2025-06-18T20:33:31+00:00

Rates typically range from $35 to $75 per hour, depending on location, event type, and bartender experience. National Bartender Staffing offers transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. Additional costs may apply for travel, bar rentals, or extra services like cocktail consultation or bar setup.

Is this a full-time job?2025-06-18T20:09:27+00:00

It can be! Some of our staff bartend part-time on weekends, while others make a full-time career out of bartending and teaching. The flexibility is one of the biggest perks of working with us.

What areas do you serve?2025-06-18T19:58:52+00:00

Our main offices are in Southern California, serving Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire, San Diego, and Ventura County.

We also have offices in and serve Las Vegas, New York and Chicago areas.

Reach out for events outside these areas and we’ll let you know if we can accommodate. We can travel!

What does a bartender staffing agency do?2025-06-18T20:13:26+00:00

A bartender staffing agency connects event hosts with professional bartenders trained to handle everything from private parties to large weddings and corporate functions. We manage scheduling, vetting, and event coordination—making it easy for clients to book reliable, certified staff with zero hassle.

What kind of events will I work?2025-06-18T20:09:04+00:00

Our bartenders work everything from weddings and holiday parties to movie sets, brand events, nightclubs, and more. We match you with events based on your availability, experience, and personal preferences when possible.

What makes National Bartender Staffing different from other agencies?2025-06-18T20:11:03+00:00

We’re not just a staffing agency—we train, mentor, and develop our bartenders through one of the top-rated bartending schools in the country. Our team shows up ready to impress, and we’re known for our reliability, professionalism, and fun energy.

What types of events do you staff?2025-06-18T19:53:30+00:00

We staff all types of events, from intimate private parties to large-scale weddings, corporate events, brand activations, music festivals, and more. Whether it’s a backyard celebration or a black-tie gala, we have the right bartenders for your occasion.

What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?2025-06-18T19:59:06+00:00

We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made more than 14 days before the event may be eligible for a full or partial refund. Rescheduling is possible based on staff availability. Please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.

Go to Top