Understanding North Carolina Alcohol Laws for Private Events in Brunswick County

Planning a private event like a wedding in Oak Island, a birthday party in Shallotte, or a corporate mixer in Leland? If you’re serving alcohol, it’s important to understand North Carolina’s alcohol laws—especially if you’re hosting at a private residence or renting a venue that doesn’t have its own liquor license.

Here’s a clear, helpful breakdown of what you need to know about alcohol regulations in Brunswick County and across NC, so you can party smart and stay legal.


🍷 1. No Permit Needed for Private Parties (Most of the Time)

In North Carolina, if you’re hosting a private event (like a backyard party, wedding, or reunion) where alcohol is provided at no cost to guests, you typically do not need a special permit.

That means if you’re:

  • Buying the alcohol yourself
  • Not charging for drinks or entry
  • Inviting specific people (not the general public)

You’re allowed to serve alcohol without a permit, even if you hire a bartender or mobile bar service.

Tip: Even without a permit, you’re still responsible for serving responsibly—especially with underage guests or heavy drinkers.


🍺 2. What If You Want to Sell Alcohol at Your Event?

If you plan to:

  • Charge a cover fee that includes drinks
  • Sell drinks at a ticketed public event
  • Open your event to the public

You’ll likely need a Limited Special Occasion Permit from the North Carolina ABC Commission. This permit allows nonprofits, businesses, or individuals to sell or serve alcohol legally for a one-time event.

📝 Visit https://abc.nc.gov for current application rules and forms.


🥂 3. Bartenders Must Follow ABC Laws, Too

Even though mobile bartenders are not licensed to sell alcohol in NC, they must follow state ABC guidelines, including:

  • Refusing service to intoxicated guests
  • Checking IDs
  • Avoiding service to minors
  • Not bringing or supplying alcohol directly

Bartenders hired for private events serve alcohol that you, the host, provide—this is a standard practice across NC.


🧾 4. Consider Host Liquor Liability Insurance

While not required by law, host liquor liability insurance is a smart move, especially for weddings, company events, or large gatherings.

This coverage can protect you if:

  • A guest becomes intoxicated and causes harm
  • Alcohol-related injuries occur
  • Property damage happens due to alcohol use

You can often add this coverage through your event insurance provider or venue.


🔍 5. Know Your Venue’s Rules

Some rental venues in Brunswick County (like event barns, beach houses, and community centers) have strict alcohol policies, even if the state doesn’t require a permit.

Always check:

  • If outside alcohol is allowed
  • If bartenders must be insured
  • If you need a security guard or police officer present
  • What hours alcohol can be served

👌 Plan Ahead to Stay Safe and Legal

North Carolina’s alcohol laws are fairly flexible for private events—but they do come with responsibilities. Be sure to:

  • Serve responsibly
  • Educate your bartenders
  • Check your venue policies
  • Keep underage drinking in check
  • Have a safe transportation plan

🧑‍💼 About POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending

Based in Shallotte, NC, POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending proudly serves all of Brunswick County, including Oak Island, Ocean Isle, Southport, and beyond. Founded by Charity Sunrise, a licensed bodyworker turned event expert, our team brings professionalism, creativity, and compliance to every event we serve.

We specialize in custom cocktail menus, mobile bar setups, and expert guidance to help clients navigate alcohol laws and logistics with ease—all while creating unforgettable drink experiences.


Ready to plan an event that’s as smart as it is stylish?
Visit pourthepeople.com to learn more about our services or request a quote.


How to Estimate Alcohol for Your Event: A Guide for Brunswick County Hosts


Planning the perfect celebration—whether it’s a wedding in Oak Island, a birthday party in Shallotte, or a reunion in Southport—often comes with one big question:

How much alcohol do you actually need?

It’s easy to overspend or underestimate without a bit of planning. Here’s a helpful guide to estimating alcohol for your event so that your bar is stocked efficiently and responsibly.


🥂 Start with Guest Count and Timeframe

The two biggest factors to consider are:

  • How many people are attending?
  • How long is your event?

A general rule:
One guest = one drink per hour
(plus a buffer for early arrivals and late-night toasts)

Example:

50 guests × 4 hours = 200 drinks minimum
Add a 10–15% buffer: plan for about 225–230 drinks total.


🍸 Break It Down by Drink Type

Depending on your crowd, you’ll want to divide the total into wine, beer, and liquor. A common breakdown:

  • Beer: 40%
  • Wine: 30%
  • Spirits: 30%

For 225 drinks:

  • Beer: ~90 servings
  • Wine: ~67 servings
  • Liquor: ~68 servings

Adjust this based on what your guests prefer—beach wedding crowds might lean more toward light beer and spritzers, while backyard BBQs might favor bourbon and rum-based drinks.


🍷 Bottle & Can Equivalents

Here’s what each standard serving looks like:

  • Wine bottle: ~5 glasses
  • 750ml liquor bottle: ~16 cocktails
  • Beer can or bottle: 1 drink per unit
  • Champagne bottle: ~6 flute servings

Knowing this helps you translate your totals into actual shopping quantities.


🧊 Don’t Forget Mixers, Garnishes & Ice

It’s easy to overlook the bar extras that make drinks shine:

  • Mixers (tonic, club soda, juice, cola)
  • Fresh garnishes (citrus, herbs, fruit)
  • Ice: Plan for at least 1–1.5 pounds per person

📋 Other Factors to Consider

  • Service Style: Will you have a bartender, or is it self-serve? Guests pour less when drinks are made for them.
  • Season & Setting: Outdoor summer events = more drinks and hydration.
  • Glassware: Larger glasses = faster consumption.
  • Mocktails & Non-Alcoholic Options: Essential for designated drivers and younger guests.

🧠 Planning Ahead Prevents Waste

Estimating properly helps:

  • Prevent over-purchasing
  • Avoid running out early
  • Ensure guests drink responsibly
  • Keep your budget on track

📍 Need More Help?

If you’re still unsure how much to order or how to build a drink menu around your event type, you’re not alone. Many hosts in Brunswick County reach out to experienced mobile bartenders for insight into guest preferences and inventory planning.

POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending provides professional event support across Shallotte, Oak Island, Southport, and surrounding areas. Their team helps clients estimate quantities, create balanced drink menus, and serve events with ease.


Explore more planning resources and bartending insights at pourthepeople.com

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring a Mobile Bar Service for Outdoor Events in Brunswick County, NC

From beach weddings to backyard birthdays, outdoor events in Brunswick County, NC are more popular than ever. And there’s one upgrade that takes your open-air celebration to the next level: a mobile bar service.

Whether you’re hosting in Southport, Shallotte, Leland, or along the Oak Island shoreline, here are 5 big reasons to bring the bar to your backyard (or beachfront).


🍹 1. No Venue Bar? No Problem!

Many outdoor venues—like parks, private homes, and beach rental properties—don’t include a bar setup. A mobile bartending service brings everything you need, including:

  • Professional bar equipment
  • Coolers, tools, and glassware
  • Trained bartenders
  • Fully mobile setup that fits your space

No bar? No worries. We bring it all to you.


🍸 2. It’s a Stylish Statement Piece

The bar isn’t just functional—it’s a feature. A well-designed mobile bar adds visual appeal and can match the theme of your event, from rustic to modern coastal chic.

Services like POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending offer:

  • Sleek bar stations
  • Themed signage
  • Garnish displays
  • Custom menus

Perfect for photos and even better for vibes.


🍍 3. Custom Cocktails in the Fresh Air

Outdoor events call for refreshing, seasonal drinks. Mobile bartenders can design a custom drink menu with ingredients that match the weather, theme, and guest preferences.

Popular choices for Brunswick County events include:

  • Cucumber mint coolers
  • Fresh berry sangria
  • Local peach bellinis
  • Non-alcoholic mocktails for all ages

Custom cocktails = custom memories.


🍾 4. Stress-Free Setup & Cleanup

When you’re managing an outdoor event, the last thing you want is one more thing to worry about. Mobile bar teams handle:

  • Setup
  • Service
  • Cleanup
  • Trash removal

You focus on hosting—we’ll handle the drinks.


🌴 5. Local Bartenders Know Local Needs

Working with a local service in Brunswick County means your bartenders know the best vendors, alcohol laws, and event venues. That local expertise makes planning faster and smoother.

POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending is based right here in Shallotte, NC and serves the entire Brunswick County area with reliability and flair.


Pour the Perfect Party

An outdoor celebration deserves more than a cooler and solo cups. Add flair, flavor, and functionality with a mobile bar service designed to meet your needs.

If you’re planning an event in Shallotte, Oak Island, Holden Beach, or anywhere across Brunswick County, check out POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending. Their team specializes in coastal events, beach weddings, and backyard parties with full-service bar setups and signature cocktails.


Let us bring the bar to you—anytime, anywhere.
Visit pourthepeople.com to learn more or request a quote today.

Why Hiring a Bartender for Your Next Party in Brunswick County Is a Game-Changer

Planning a party in Brunswick County, North Carolina? Whether it’s a birthday bash in Shallotte, a graduation party in Leland, or a holiday celebration on Oak Island, one of the easiest ways to elevate your event is by hiring a professional bartender.

From expertly crafted drinks to stress-free hosting, here’s why bringing in a mobile bartending service is the best decision you can make.


🍸 1. You Get to Actually Enjoy Your Own Party

When you hire a professional, you’re no longer stuck behind the counter mixing drinks or searching for wine keys. Instead, you’re free to:

  • Mingle with guests
  • Relax and enjoy the atmosphere
  • Know everyone’s drink is in expert hands

Let the pros handle the bar while you enjoy the celebration you worked so hard to plan.


🍹 2. Professional Presentation Makes a Statement

A well-styled bar setup instantly makes your event feel more polished. A mobile bartending team can bring:

  • Bar stations and decor
  • Custom signage
  • Stylish glassware
  • Themed garnishes

It’s not just about the drinks—it’s about creating an experience that impresses your guests.


🍷 3. Custom Menus That Match Your Theme

Want a spooky cocktail for Halloween? A romantic drink for an engagement party? A bourbon tasting for a guys’ night? A good bartender can tailor your drink menu to match your vibe perfectly.

Plus, mobile bartenders often provide:

  • Signature cocktails
  • Mocktail options
  • Seasonal drink menus

Your guests will love the personal touch.


🥂 4. Safety and Professionalism Matter

An experienced bartender knows how to:

  • Control alcohol consumption responsibly
  • Verify guest age
  • Handle spills or issues discreetly
  • Keep the bar area clean and stocked

Hiring a licensed, insured bartending team like POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending helps you stay compliant and stress-free.


🍾 5. It Actually Saves You Time and Money

Think about it: a bartender can help you plan exactly how much alcohol to buy, cutting down on waste and overbuying. They can also provide:

  • Shopping lists
  • Bar setup and breakdown
  • Cooler and ice management

It’s not just convenient—it’s cost-effective.


Host Better, Drink Smarter

Whether you’re planning a big birthday party, a neighborhood block party, or a holiday mixer, hiring a bartender ensures everything flows smoothly.

If you’re looking for reliable, stylish, and friendly mobile bartending services in Brunswick County, we highly recommend POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending.

Their team brings experience, personality, and custom solutions to every event—from Shallotte to Southport and beyond.


Ready to throw a party your guests will never forget? Visit pourthepeople.com to book your bartender today!

Creative Signature Cocktail Ideas for Weddings and Events in Brunswick County, NC

Looking to add a personal, unforgettable twist to your wedding, birthday party, or private event in Brunswick County, NC? One of the easiest—and tastiest—ways to wow your guests is with signature cocktails designed just for your special day.

Whether you’re tying the knot in Shallotte, hosting a spa party in Southport, or throwing a beach bash in Oak Island, custom drinks elevate the vibe and keep guests talking long after the last toast.

Here are some fun and creative cocktail ideas to inspire your perfect event!


🍓 1. The Coastal Carolina Cooler

Inspired by Brunswick County’s laid-back beach towns, this refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm-weather weddings and outdoor events.

Ingredients:

  • Vodka or gin
  • Fresh muddled cucumber
  • Lime juice
  • Mint leaves
  • Splash of soda water

Perfect for: Ocean Isle Beach weddings, backyard spa parties, and summer cocktail hours.


🌺 2. Lavender Lemon Fizz

This floral-forward drink is ideal for spa-themed events or elegant bridal showers.

Ingredients:

  • Vodka or gin
  • Lavender simple syrup
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Prosecco or club soda

Perfect for: Spa parties in Shallotte, wellness events, or bridal brunches.


🍑 3. Carolina Sunset Sangria

A fruity twist on traditional sangria, using North Carolina peaches and berries.

Ingredients:

  • Rosé wine
  • Peach schnapps
  • Fresh local peaches, strawberries, and blueberries
  • Orange juice & splash of ginger ale

Perfect for: Rehearsal dinners, family reunions, and casual receptions.


🌶 4. The Spicy Southern Mule

For guests who like a little kick! This bold cocktail balances heat and sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • Bourbon or tequila
  • Ginger beer
  • Lime juice
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Honey syrup

Perfect for: Rustic weddings, themed events, and cocktail-forward receptions in Brunswick County.


🍍 5. The POUR-Tini (Signature of POUR THE PEOPLE)

This signature cocktail from POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending combines tropical flair with upscale presentation.

Ingredients:

  • Coconut rum
  • Pineapple juice
  • Splash of lime
  • Garnished with toasted coconut rim

Perfect for: Trendy weddings, birthday parties, or any celebration that deserves a signature drink.


🧊 Custom Cocktails Made for You

When you hire a professional mobile bartending service like POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending, you’re not just getting someone to pour drinks. You’re getting:

  • Custom cocktail menu consultation
  • Themed and seasonal drink options
  • Mocktail variations for non-drinkers
  • Local ingredients sourced from Brunswick County when possible

We work closely with each client to design a personalized drink menu that matches your event’s theme, personality, and guest preferences.


🍸 Ready to Design Your Signature Drink?

At POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending, we love helping clients bring their vision to life with creative, memorable, and delicious cocktails. Whether you’re celebrating in Shallotte, Leland, Oak Island, or anywhere in Brunswick County, we’re here to make your bar unforgettable.

Visit pourthepeople.com to learn more or book your cocktail consultation today.



How to Choose the Right Mobile Bartender for Your Wedding in Brunswick County, NC

Planning your wedding on the beautiful coast of Brunswick County, NC? From Oak Island’s sandy shores to a backyard ceremony in Shallotte, your big day deserves every detail to be perfect—including the drinks.

Hiring a mobile bartender is one of the best ways to elevate your wedding experience and ensure your guests are served in style. But how do you choose the right bartender for your celebration?

Here’s your guide to selecting the ideal mobile bartending service for your Brunswick County wedding.


🍸 1. Look for Experience With Weddings

Not all mobile bartenders are created equal. Look for a team that specializes in weddings and understands the flow of a formal event. Experienced wedding bartenders know how to:

  • Work with coordinators and vendors
  • Set up and break down efficiently
  • Serve large groups smoothly
  • Handle cocktail hours, toasts, and signature drinks

A company like POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending brings not only talent but also wedding-specific experience to make sure your timeline stays on track and your bar stays stocked.


🥂 2. Ask About Customization Options

Your wedding should reflect your personality—and your drinks should too. Ask potential bartenders if they offer:

  • Signature cocktails based on your tastes
  • Themed drink menus
  • Non-alcoholic mocktail options
  • Seasonal or local ingredients

Customization helps create a unique guest experience and adds a personal touch to your reception.


💬 3. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Word of mouth is powerful. Be sure to:

  • Read Google and Facebook reviews
  • Check testimonials on their website
  • Ask for photos of past wedding setups
  • Request references if needed

A reputable mobile bartending company should be proud to share their success stories from past Brunswick County weddings.


🧊 4. Understand What’s Included

Before booking, ask for a clear list of what’s included in your package. Top-tier services will provide:

  • Certified and insured bartenders
  • Bar setup (tables, coolers, tools, etc.)
  • Garnishes, mixers, and glassware (optional)
  • Shopping list assistance or alcohol handling guidance
  • Setup and cleanup

The last thing you want on your wedding day is confusion about what’s covered. Transparency is key.


📍 5. Choose Local for Flexibility & Support

Hiring a local bartender in Brunswick County comes with major perks:

  • Knowledge of nearby venues (like Silver Coast Winery, Southport Community Center, and Holden Beach rentals)
  • Easier logistics and delivery
  • Community pride and local vendor connections

POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending, based in Shallotte, NC, understands the local wedding scene inside and out. Their team is known for being punctual, professional, and personable—perfect for your big day.


Final Tip: Book Early!

Top mobile bartending services book months in advance—especially during wedding season in Brunswick County. Once you’ve secured your venue and caterer, your bartender should be next on the list.


🍸 Ready to Raise a Glass?

If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish, and skilled mobile bartender for your wedding, we highly recommend POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending. Their team is committed to making your bar experience as memorable as your “I do’s.”

Cheers to unforgettable moments!

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring a Mobile Bartender in Shallotte, NC

Planning an event in Shallotte, North Carolina or anywhere in Brunswick County? Whether it’s a beach wedding, backyard party, corporate function, or even a spa-themed girls’ day, hiring a mobile bartender can transform your event from ordinary to unforgettable. More than just pouring drinks, a mobile bartender brings style, professionalism, and convenience right to your doorstep.

Here’s why more Shallotte locals are turning to mobile bartending services—and why you should too.


1. 🍹 Convenience That Comes to You

One of the biggest perks of hiring a mobile bartender is location flexibility. Whether you’re hosting a wedding at a private residence, a celebration at a beach house rental, or a birthday bash near Ocean Isle Beach, mobile bartenders bring the bar directly to your venue.

No need to rent expensive bar equipment or stock supplies yourself—POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending handles it all for you. From setup to cleanup, your bar service is completely covered.


2. 🍸 Professional Presentation & Custom Cocktails

Professional mobile bartenders do more than just mix drinks—they craft signature cocktails that elevate your event. Imagine a personalized cocktail menu with themed drinks, or a tropical mocktail bar for a spa day or baby shower.

A bartender-for-hire service like POUR THE PEOPLE brings:

  • Expert mixologists
  • Premium bar tools
  • Custom cocktail design
  • Beautiful bar setups styled for your event

Whether you’re going for boho chic, beachy casual, or upscale elegance, the presentation will match the vibe.


3. 🧖‍♀️ Perfect Addition to Spa Parties & Wellness Events

Hosting a spa day or wellness retreat in Brunswick County? A mobile bartender can enhance the relaxing experience with herbal mocktails or low-alcohol spa-inspired drinks. These often include fresh ingredients like:

  • Cucumber
  • Mint
  • Lavender
  • Citrus fruits
  • Coconut water

Pairing drinks with facials, massages, and wellness treatments creates a resort-like experience, especially when held at private homes or mobile spa setups in Shallotte or Calabash.


4. 🎉 Stress-Free Hosting

A mobile bartender takes pressure off the host. You no longer have to worry about:

  • Making drinks
  • Managing alcohol inventory
  • Keeping the party flowing

Instead, you get to enjoy your own event, knowing that your guests are in expert hands. POUR THE PEOPLE even helps you plan the shopping list or can manage full bar services with mixers, garnishes, and more.


5. 📍 Local Knowledge & Community Vibes

Working with a Brunswick County-based mobile bartender like POUR THE PEOPLE means you get more than just service—you get insider knowledge on the best local spirits, seasonal drink trends, and crowd-favorite cocktails.

We know how to tailor events for:

  • Shallotte locals
  • Vacationers in Sunset Beach
  • Destination weddings in Southport
  • Wellness retreats in Bolivia and Leland

Supporting local businesses also means strengthening your community—cheers to that!


🥂 POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending: Serving Shallotte & All of Brunswick County

POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending is Brunswick County’s go-to mobile bar service, offering professional bartenders, custom cocktails, and beautiful setups for events of all sizes. We specialize in:

✅ Weddings
✅ Private Parties
✅ Spa & Wellness Events
✅ Corporate Gatherings
✅ Beachfront Celebrations

Based in Shallotte, NC, we proudly serve the surrounding towns including Southport, Oak Island, Calabash, Bolivia, Ocean Isle Beach, and beyond.

✨ Ready to bring the bar to your next event?
Visit 👉 POURTHEPEOPLE.COM to learn more or request a custom quote today.

Why Mobile Bartending Is The Hottest Trend In Brunswick County Events


🥂 The Mobile Bartending Revolution Has Arrived in Brunswick County

Looking to host a unique, upscale event in Brunswick County, North Carolina? Whether you’re planning a beachfront wedding, a luxury spa day, or a private party in Shallotte, mobile bartending is the ultimate way to elevate your experience—and POUR THE PEOPLE Mobile Bartending is leading the charge.

We bring the bar—and the vibe—directly to you.


🌊 Why Brunswick County Loves Mobile Bartenders

From Oak Island to Southport, Brunswick County is filled with scenic venues and growing demand for custom, flexible event services. Mobile bartending delivers a fully curated cocktail experience that adapts to your location and style.

Here’s what makes mobile bartending the hottest event trend on the coast:

On-Site Luxury: Skip the crowded bars—our mobile setup comes to your beach house, spa resort, or backyard.

Custom Menus: Think signature cocktails inspired by your event’s vibe or theme.

Professional Staff: Our licensed mixologists bring both skill and personality to your celebration.

Stress-Free Setup: We handle the bar so you can enjoy the moment.


💆‍♀️ Perfect for Spa Retreats & Wellness Events

Imagine a lavender lemonade spritzer post-massage, or a cucumber mint cooler after hot yoga. POUR THE PEOPLE blends spa-day serenity with flavor-forward refreshments using ingredients like:

Hosting a spa day, retreat, or wellness event in Brunswick County? Add a refreshing twist with herbal-infused cocktails or mocktails.

Lavender

Chamomile

Fresh mint

Local honey

Citrus infusions

Perfect for events at wellness centers, yoga studios, or even mobile spa parties right at home.


📍 Serving All of Brunswick County, NC

We proudly serve the following areas and more:

Shallotte

Ocean Isle Beach

Calabash

Bolivia

Oak Island

Leland

Southport

Sunset Beach

No matter the location, POUR THE PEOPLE delivers a 5-star mobile bar experience for:

✅ Weddings
✅ Corporate Events
✅ Spa Parties
✅ Private Celebrations
✅ Bachelorette & Bachelor Parties


🔗 Book Your Mobile Bartending Experience

Ready to level up your next Brunswick County event?

👉 Visit POURTHEPEOPLE.COM to learn more or request a quote.
👉 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see our latest events in action.