Answers, Confidence, and Everything in Between

FAQ

GENERAL QUESTIONS

1. What exactly is McKarl’s Libations?

We’re a fully licensed, insured, and certified mobile hospitality group based in Florida. We provide elevated bartending services for weddings, private parties, corporate events, and brand activations. Our offerings range from simple pour service to full-scale craft cocktail experiences—plus tastings, bourbon education, and consulting.

2. Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Every bartender on our team is licensed and W-2 employed. We carry full liquor liability and general liability insurance and maintain all required permits to operate legally in the state of Florida. Peace of mind is part of our pour.

3. Where do you operate?

We’re based in Jacksonville, FL and serve clients across the state—including St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Amelia Island, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, and beyond. If you’re planning an event outside Florida, reach out—we love an excuse to travel.

BOOKING & PRICING

4. How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 60–90 days in advance for weddings and large-scale events. For smaller gatherings or tastings, 30 days is often sufficient. Last-minute? Contact us. If we’re available, we’ll make it happen.

5. What’s included in the service cost?

Each package includes a licensed, insured bartender, full bar tools, setup and breakdown, and the essentials depending on the package—mixers, garnishes, drinkware, and more. See our Services Page for detailed inclusions by tier.

6. Do you offer pricing packages?

Yes. We offer three core packages—Show Up & Pour, Premium Bar Service, and Elite Bar Service—with clearly defined features and pricing flexibility. We also offer à la carte event add-ons like espresso bars, cocktail fountains, and more. Get in touch for a custom quote.

7. Do you require a deposit?

Yes, we require a 50% deposit to secure your date. Final payment is due 14 days before the event. We accept major credit cards and ACH payments. For larger activations, payment schedules can be arranged.

8. Can I make changes after booking?

Absolutely. We’re flexible—but please let us know about changes to guest count, timing, or menu at least 10 days in advance so we can adjust staffing and logistics accordingly.

SERVICES & CUSTOMIZATION

9. Can I customize the cocktail menu?

Yes! Especially with our Elite Bar Service, we’ll work with you to craft a custom cocktail menu that reflects your event’s theme, your taste, or even your story as a couple or brand. Want something Instagram-worthy? We’ve got you.

10. What’s the difference between your packages?

Show Up & Pour: Just need a pro bartender to serve drinks you provide? This one’s for you.
Premium Bar: Includes beer, wine, and classic cocktails, plus basic mixers, garnishes, and drinkware.
Elite Bar: Our top-tier package includes fully custom cocktails, detailed menu consultation, curated ingredients, high-end presentation, and signature service.

11. Do you provide alcohol?

Due to Florida law, we do not sell alcohol directly. However, we help you create a shopping list based on your guest count and menu, and we coordinate with vendors or venues for seamless delivery. You get the selection you want—without guesswork.

12. Do you offer non-alcoholic options?

Of course. We’re big fans of zero-proof sophistication. From mocktails to herbal refreshers and custom coffee bars, we craft non-alcoholic experiences that feel just as celebratory.

EVENTS & OCCASIONS

13. What types of events do you serve?

Pretty much everything that calls for a celebration (or elevated experience).

Weddings, private parties, corporate events, brand activations, tasting experiences, holiday gatherings, nonprofit galas and more.

14. Do you work with wedding planners or venues?

We love collaborating with planners and venue coordinators—and many already have us on their preferred vendor lists. If yours doesn’t, feel free to connect us. We’re professional, flexible, and great at playing well with others.

15. Can you help with event setup or decor?

While we specialize in bar service, we do offer a variety of mobile bar setups, glassware rentals, signature cocktail signs, and decor enhancements that can elevate your setup. Ask about our add-ons or visit our Event Add-Ons Page.

BOURBON, EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION

16. What’s the Bourbon Steward Certification?

It’s an official, industry-recognized credential from the Stave & Thief Society in Kentucky—the only certification recognized by the state. All McKarl’s bartenders are certified, and now you can be too.

17. Who can take the certification course?

Anyone with a passion for bourbon—whether you’re a hospitality pro or just a whiskey enthusiast looking to up your game. We host group classes and private sessions, and you’ll walk away with serious knowledge (and bragging rights).

BRAND & PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

18. What is MCK Promotions & Events?

MCK Promotions is our tasting and brand activation arm. We partner with distilleries, breweries, and beverage companies to design and staff product activations that convert curious sippers into loyal customers.

19. What do you offer to spirits brands?

Product sampling and staff
Branded tasting experiences
Lead generation
Piñata reporting and analytics
On-brand storytelling and sales support

ADD-ONS & EXTRAS

20. What optional add-ons do you offer?

We have a growing list of event enhancers, including:

Espresso machines (with barista-trained staff)
Cocktail fountains
Clear ice and ice sculptures
Mobile bar units
Vintage glassware
Luxe charcuterie and grazing tables

Coming Soon

SHOP: LIBATIONS LAB

21. Do you sell cocktail ingredients or tools?

Yes! Our Libations Lab is where at-home hosts and cocktail enthusiasts can find:

Dehydrated citrus (lime, lemon, orange wheels)
Bartending kits
Seasonal syrups (coming soon)
Signature McKarl’s tools and glassware

AFTER THE EVENT

22. Do you clean up?

Absolutely. We leave the bar area spotless—every time. You’ll never find sticky counters, dirty tools, or half-filled glasses. It’s part of the McKarl’s standard.

23. Can we rebook your team for future events?

We’d love that. Many of our clients rebook us annually or even quarterly. Let us know your plans, and we’ll get you on the calendar before dates fill up.

LOGISTICS & DAY-OF

24. What do you need from us before the event?

We’ll send you a simple checklist after booking, but at minimum, we need:

Event timeline
Venue access details
Guest count
Finalized menu (for Elite services)
Alcohol delivery or pickup plan

We take it from there.

25. What if the venue already has a bar setup?

That works perfectly. We’re adaptable and can work with almost any setup—whether it’s a fixed bar, mobile cart, or a table with linens. If you don’t have a bar, we can provide one. Easy.

26. What’s your setup and breakdown process?

Our team arrives 1–2 hours before service to set up and stays after the event to fully clean and break down the bar area. You won’t lift a finger or worry about a thing.