Tastings with the Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a wedding sommelier cost?
Every wedding is different, so pricing is customized based on your guest count, wine preferences, and service needs. Engagements typically start at $1,500 and scale based on the scope of the event. The best way to get a clear picture is to book a free 15-minute consultation where we'll talk through your vision and I'll put together a proposal.
Can I bring outside wine to my venue?
It depends on your venue's policy. Some venues allow outside wine with a corkage fee, while others require you to use their wine list. Either way, I work with both scenarios regularly. If your venue allows outside wine, I handle all the sourcing and coordination. If not, I review their list, negotiate where possible, and build the best selection from what's available.
What does a wedding sommelier actually do?
I handle everything related to wine at your wedding: a personal consultation to understand your taste and budget, sourcing and procuring all wines, and full on-site sommelier service from setup through teardown on the day. Think of it as having a dedicated wine expert for your entire event — not a bartender reading labels. Read more in our blog post: What a Wedding Sommelier Actually Does.
How far in advance should I book?
Ideally two to three months before your wedding, though I've worked with shorter timelines. I take a limited number of events per season to give every couple my full attention, so earlier is better — especially for peak wedding season (May through October). I'm currently booking fall 2026 and spring 2027.
Do you only do weddings?
No — I also do corporate wine tastings and private in-home classes. Corporate events are great for team building, client entertainment, and holiday celebrations. Private tastings are perfect for dinner parties, birthdays, bachelorettes, and any gathering of 4 to 20 people. Learn more about corporate events or private tastings.
What areas do you serve?
I serve Long Island, New York City, the North Fork, the Hamptons, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Travel beyond these areas is available — just ask during your consultation.
Do I need to know about wine to hire you?
Not at all. Most of my couples aren't wine experts — they just want their guests to have a great experience. I tailor everything to your level of knowledge and comfort. Whether you know exactly what you want or just know you "like red wine," that's the perfect place to start.
What if my venue won't allow a sommelier?
This comes up occasionally, and I've navigated it successfully every time. I work directly with venues to find a solution that works for everyone. In many cases, the venue is happy to accommodate once they understand the service and see that I carry full liability insurance and coordinate seamlessly with their team.
How is this different from just having an open bar?
An open bar gives every guest the same three or four options. A sommelier tailors recommendations to each individual — asking what they're eating, what they enjoy, whether they want to try something new. It's the difference between a generic experience and a personal one. It's the detail your guests bring up at brunch the next morning.
What's included in a private in-home tasting?
Everything: wine selection tailored to your group, all glassware and materials, food pairing recommendations, and an interactive guided tasting led by a Certified Sommelier. I handle the setup and cleanup. All you need is a table and some curiosity. Perfect for groups of 4 to 20 across Long Island, NYC, the Hamptons, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.
Still have questions? Let's talk.
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