Bar Opening Essentials: Custom Branded Supplies Checklist

Your Bar Branding Starts Before Opening Night

Opening a new bar is one of the most exciting (and stressful) things you will ever do. Between the liquor license, the build-out, the menu development, and the staffing, it is easy to let branding details slip through the cracks. But here is the thing: your branded supplies are what turn a space into a brand.

This checklist covers every custom branded item you should have ready before you open your doors. We have organized it by priority so you can focus your budget where it matters most.

Priority 1: Must-Have Items for Opening Day

These are the essentials. Every bar needs these branded items from day one.

Custom Cocktail Napkins

You will go through hundreds of these every night. Custom cocktail napkins with your logo are the single most visible branding item in your bar. They cost just pennies each in bulk and make an immediate impression.

• Recommended order: 5,000-10,000 to start (you will reorder frequently).
• Budget: $250-$500 for your first order.
• Lead time: 7-10 business days.

Read our Design Tips and Bulk Pricing Guide for detailed advice.

Custom Bar Mats

Rubber bar mats with your logo protect your bar top and brand your workspace. Every bartender station needs one.

• Recommended order: 6-12 depending on bar length and layout.
• Budget: $60-$150.
• Lead time: 2-3 weeks.

Custom Coasters

Branded coasters protect tables and bar surfaces throughout your venue. They are especially important for table service areas.

• Recommended order: 1,000-2,500 pulpboard coasters to start.
• Budget: $250-$500.
• Lead time: 10-14 business days.

Priority 2: High-Impact Branded Items

These items are not strictly necessary for opening night, but they significantly elevate your brand and can generate revenue.

Custom Pint Glasses

Branded pint glasses turn every beer into a branded moment. They also double as merchandise you can sell.

• Recommended order: 144-288 for bar use, plus 72-144 for retail.
• Budget: $500-$1,200.
• Lead time: 2-3 weeks.

Custom Shot Glasses

Custom shot glasses are perfect for promotions and retail. Run a "buy a round, keep the glass" promotion to drive traffic.

• Recommended order: 144-288 to start.
• Budget: $250-$600.
• Lead time: 2-3 weeks.

Custom Whiskey Glasses

If you have a spirits-focused program, branded whiskey glasses add a premium touch. Consider engraved options for an extra wow factor.

• Recommended order: 48-96 for bar use.
• Budget: $300-$700.
• Lead time: 2-3 weeks.

Priority 3: Nice-to-Have Items

These items complete your branding package and can be added as your budget allows.

Stemless Wine Glasses

If you serve wine, branded stemless wine glasses are a modern, durable choice that look great with your logo.

Boot Beer Glasses

For fun-themed bars, boot beer glasses are a conversation piece and Instagram magnet.

Branded Apparel for Staff

T-shirts, hats, and aprons with your bar logo create a cohesive team look and serve as walking advertisements.

Complete Budget Overview

That is a comprehensive branded barware package for roughly $2,000-$4,000. Considering the years of use and branding impact you will get, this is one of the best investments in your bar's identity. For exact pricing, get a free quote.

Ordering Timeline

Here is when to order relative to your opening date:

• 8-10 weeks before opening: Order glassware (pint, shot, whiskey, wine) and bar mats. These have the longest production times.
• 6-8 weeks before opening: Order coasters and cocktail napkins.
• 4 weeks before opening: Rush orders for any items you missed or need to add.
• 2 weeks before opening: Receive and inventory all items. Set up branded displays.

Design Consistency Is Key

The most important thing about your branded supplies is consistency. Use the same logo, colors, and style across every item. This creates a cohesive brand experience that feels professional and intentional.

Tips for design consistency:

• Use the same version of your logo on everything.
• Stick to 2-3 brand colors maximum.
• Provide vector artwork (AI or EPS files) for all items.
• Review mockups for all items side by side before approving.

Beyond Barware: Other Branding Touchpoints

While this guide focuses on barware, do not forget these other important branding elements:

• Menu design: Your menu is the most-read piece of content in your bar.
• Signage: Exterior and interior signs establish your brand before anyone orders a drink.
• Social media presence: Set up your accounts and start building buzz before you open.
• Website: At minimum, have your hours, location, and menu online.

For more on building your brand with promotional products, check out our Ultimate Guide to Promotional Products for Small Business.

Get Started

Do not wait until the last minute to order your branded supplies. Start early, order smart, and open your doors with a fully branded bar that makes a statement from day one. For a complete overview of all your options, read our Complete Guide to Custom Barware. And when you are ready to order, request a free quote and we will help you put together the perfect package for your new bar.