FAQ | Tipsy Tuna Mobile Bartending — Dry Hire Bar NJ

Question 1

Do you provide alcohol?

Accepted Answer

No — and that's the whole point of dry hire. You purchase all the beer, wine, and spirits for your event. I provide the bartenders, bar setup, glassware, mixers, garnishes, ice, and cleanup. This keeps costs down for you and keeps me fully compliant with NJ ABC regulations.

Question 2

What exactly do you provide?

Accepted Answer

I bring everything except the alcohol. That includes: professional bartenders (me and my trained team), a full mobile bar setup, glassware, ice, coolers, mixers, garnishes, bar tools, and a custom cocktail menu. Setup and breakdown outside your event hours are always included. I'll also send you a custom alcohol shopping list before your event.

Question 3

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Tipsy Tuna is fully insured. I can provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) on request. If your venue has specific insurance requirements, just let me know and I'll work directly with them to make sure everything is in order before your event.

Question 4

Are you licensed to serve alcohol in NJ?

Accepted Answer

Because Tipsy Tuna is a dry hire service, I don't sell or provide alcohol — so no liquor license is required. I operate in full compliance with New Jersey ABC regulations for private, non-public events. No cash bars, no selling drinks, no open-to-the-public events.

Question 5

How far do you travel?

Accepted Answer

I serve the entire Jersey Shore — from Long Beach Island up to Asbury Park and beyond. Travel is free within Ocean County. A travel fee applies for events outside Ocean County. Not sure if your location is covered? Just ask.

Question 6

Is there a travel fee?

Accepted Answer

Travel within Ocean County is always free. For events outside Ocean County (Monmouth County, Burlington County, etc.), a travel fee applies based on distance. I'll include this in your custom quote so there are no surprises.

Question 7

How many bartenders do I need?

Accepted Answer

As a general rule, I recommend 1 bartender per 50 guests for a smooth, fast bar experience. For events over 100 guests, I'll bring additional staff. I'll make a recommendation based on your specific event when I send your quote.

Question 8

Do you need power or water access?

Accepted Answer

Not typically. My setup is fully self-contained — I bring everything I need. If your event has specific requirements (like a blended cocktail station), I'll let you know in advance. Most backyard parties, venues, and outdoor events work perfectly with my standard setup.

Question 9

What's your deposit and cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I require a 25% deposit to lock in your date. The remaining balance is due before or on the day of your event. Cancellation policies are outlined in your contract — I'm always willing to work with you if something comes up, so just reach out as early as possible.

Question 10

Can you help me build an alcohol shopping list?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — that's part of the service. Once you book, I'll send you a custom shopping list based on your guest count, event type, and cocktail menu. I'll tell you exactly what to buy, how much, and where to find it. No guesswork.

Question 11

Do you offer mocktails or non-alcoholic options?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I can set up a dedicated mocktail and non-alcoholic beverage station as an add-on. It's a great option for events with kids, non-drinkers, or guests who just want something fun and refreshing without the alcohol.

Question 12

What's the minimum booking?

Accepted Answer

My minimum booking is $350, with a 3-hour event minimum. Pricing is $5 per guest per hour for events under 100 guests, and $4.50 per guest per hour for events with 100 or more guests.

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