FAQ — East Bay Elixirs

Question 1

How do I book East Bay Elixirs for my event?

Accepted Answer

Start by filling out our inquiry form on the Contact page. Share your event date, guest count, location, and event type. We'll get back to you within 24 hours with a custom proposal.

Question 2

How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance for smaller events, and 3–6 months ahead for weddings and large events. Popular dates fill up quickly, especially in spring and fall.

Question 3

Is a deposit required to hold my date?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a deposit is required to secure your event date. The deposit amount and payment schedule will be outlined in your custom proposal.

Question 4

How is pricing determined?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is based on your event date, guest count, duration, location, and the services you need. We provide transparent, all-inclusive quotes so there are no surprises.

Question 5

Do you provide the alcohol?

Accepted Answer

East Bay Elixirs operates on a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) model — clients supply their own alcohol. We handle everything else: the bar, equipment, ice, cups, cocktail planning, and a detailed shopping list with exact quantities so you know exactly what to buy.

Question 6

How do I know how much alcohol to buy?

Accepted Answer

We provide a detailed shopping list with exact quantities based on your guest count, event duration, and cocktail menu. No guesswork — just show up with what's on the list.

Question 7

Can you accommodate non-drinkers?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer non-alcoholic mocktail options and infused water stations as part of every booking. Just let us know your guests' needs and we'll make sure everyone is taken care of.

Question 8

What's included with every booking?

Accepted Answer

Every booking includes our portable mobile bar, all bar equipment, coolers and ice, disposable cups, an infused water station, custom cocktail menu planning, a shopping list with exact quantities, setup and breakdown, and RBS-certified bartenders.

Question 9

How much time do you need for setup?

Accepted Answer

We typically need 1–2 hours for setup depending on the event size and complexity. We'll coordinate with you and your venue to ensure everything is ready before your guests arrive.

Question 10

Can you set up outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our portable mobile bar is designed for both indoor and outdoor events. We just ask that you let us know about the venue conditions so we can plan accordingly.

Question 11

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Hayward, CA and serve the San Francisco Bay Area, Napa and Sonoma Wine Country, Sacramento, the Central Valley, and Lake Tahoe. Travel fees may apply for events outside the immediate Bay Area.

Question 12

Are your bartenders RBS certified?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All East Bay Elixirs bartenders hold current Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification, as required by California law for events where alcohol is served.

Question 13

Are you insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we carry comprehensive liability insurance for every event.

Question 14

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

East Bay Elixirs currently accepts Zelle and ACH. Payment instructions are provided on your booking invoice.

Question 15

When is payment due?

Accepted Answer

A deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your event date. Your date is not officially reserved until your deposit has been received and your service agreement has been signed. The remaining balance is due no later than 7 days before your event.

Question 16

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Accepted Answer

We understand that plans can change. If you cancel 8 or more days before your event, your deposit will be fully refunded. If you cancel within 7 days of your event, 50% of the total amount paid will be refunded. Day-of cancellations and no-shows are non-refundable.

Question 17

Can I reschedule my event?

Accepted Answer

Yes. One rescheduling request may be made at no additional cost when requested at least 14 days before your original event date and the new event date is within 6 months. Rescheduling requests made with less notice or additional date changes may be subject to a fee and are based on availability.

Question 18

What happens if East Bay Elixirs has to cancel?

Accepted Answer

If East Bay Elixirs must cancel due to circumstances within our control, you will receive a 100% refund. We will also make every reasonable effort to provide a qualified replacement bartender at no additional cost.

Question 19

What happens if my final payment isn't made by the deadline?

Accepted Answer

Final payment is due no later than 7 days before your event. If the remaining balance is not received by the deadline, East Bay Elixirs may cancel the booking and retain the deposit.

Question 20

How is gratuity handled?

Accepted Answer

A $200 Bartender Gratuity Minimum per bartender applies to all events and is already included in your quoted package total. Clients may choose to prepay the $200 gratuity per bartender with their final balance before the event, or allow the bartending team to display a tip jar during service so guests may contribute toward the gratuity minimum. If guest tips collected during the event do not reach the $200 minimum per bartender, the client is responsible for the remaining difference and will be invoiced after the event. Tips collected above the minimum remain with the bartending team. Example: If two bartenders are scheduled, the Bartender Gratuity Minimum is $400. If $350 is collected in guest tips, the client is responsible for the remaining $50.

Frequently Asked Questions

01Booking & Pricing

02Alcohol & BYOB Policy

03Logistics & Setup

04Credentials & Insurance

05Payments, Cancellations & Policies

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