BAR OPTIONS

Which Bar Option is right for my event?

This option is only for guests that wish to SELL ALCOHOL in PG COUNTY on OUR PREMISES. If your event DOES NOT involve sale of alcohol, please work with your host to organize your event.

However, if you plan to include drinks in ticket costs, covers, mins or any activiting involving cash for liquor pre or post is alcohol sales as defined by the county.

When choosing between a fully managed bar (Studio-run) and a self-managed bar, here’s a breakdown of the benefits and challenges of each option:

πŸ“Œ Fully Managed Bar (Studio-Run) – Profit-Sharing Model

βœ… Pros:
βœ” Turnkey Experience – Blur Bars handles all alcohol sales, staffing, security, and compliance. You don’t need a license, bartenders, or a POS system.
βœ” Lower Risk, Lower Stress – You simply bring the guests, promote the event, and keep your ticket sales & VIP profits. No worry about managing bar stock or logistics.
βœ” Profit-Sharing Upside – After the $1,000 bar minimum is met, you earn 20% of additional beverage sales.
βœ” Legally Compliant – No need to worry about securing alcohol permits, liability coverage, or compliance with local lawsβ€”we take care of it.
βœ” Professional Bar Staff & Service – Guests enjoy a well-run, professional bar experience.
βœ” Extra Add-Ons – Ability to upsell private rooms, parking, and studio spaces to increase event revenue.

🚫 Cons:
❌ Less Control Over Drink Prices & Selection – The bar is managed by StudioPlace, so promoters cannot set drink prices or bring in custom bar brands.
❌ Lower Profit Margins on Bar Sales – You only receive 20% profit after the bar minimum is met, instead of keeping 100% of bar revenue.
❌ Event Requires a Bar Minimum – Promoters must cover the difference if sales don’t reach $1,000.
❌ Studio Controls the Service Style – You have no say in bartender selection, entry specials, minimums, drink specials, or inventory choices.


πŸ“Œ Self-Managed Bar (Guest-Run)

βœ… Pros:
βœ” 100% of Bar Profits – You keep all bar revenue, meaning higher earnings potential if the event is successful.
βœ” Full Control Over Pricing & Menu – You set your own drink prices, bottle service rates, and bar branding.
βœ” No Bar Minimum Required – You don’t have to meet a sales target before earning profits.
βœ” Custom Event Experience – Ability to bring in your own bartenders, themed drinks, and unique promotions.
βœ” Add Value to Your Events – If you're already hosting an event, adding the bar rental increases revenue potential.

🚫 Cons:
❌ Must Secure Your Own Alcohol License & Permits – Renters are responsible for securing all alcohol permits and must sign a waiver accepting full liability at least 1 week prior to any booking request. If you are seeking to sell alcohol, you must request a receive a site authorization in order to apply for the permit though PG County.
❌ Higher Upfront Costs – You must buy all liquor, hire staff, and secure a POS system for the event.
❌ Requires Licensed Security – You must hire and pay for professional security on-site for any event involving alcohol.
❌ More Time-Consuming – You are responsible for inventory, setup, cleanup, and compliance with all local alcohol service laws. If selling alcohol, you must have a permit prior to requesting to rent our location.
❌ Risk of Financial Loss – If attendance is low or drink sales are weak, you lose money on alcohol purchases and event costs.
❌ Limited Studio Support – The Studio is not responsible for any bar-related issues, including guest behavior, alcohol service problems, or legal compliance.

πŸ“Œ Which Option is Best for You?

Choose the Fully Managed Bar if:

βœ” You want a stress-free experience and don't want to deal with liquor permits or logistics.
βœ” You are focused on selling tickets and experiences rather than managing a bar.
βœ” You prefer a structured event model with built-in staff and service.
βœ” You are confident your guests will meet the bar minimum ($1,000) so you can profit additionally from drink sales.

Choose the Self-Managed Bar if:

βœ” You have experience running events and alcohol service.
βœ” You want full control over pricing, branding, and alcohol selection.
βœ” You are comfortable handling permits, security, and bar management responsibilities.
βœ” You expect strong alcohol sales and want to keep 100% of the bar profits.

πŸ“ž Still unsure which option is best? Call or text 202-618-5483 to discuss your event needs and secure your Blur Bar experience today! Serious promoters only.