Whiskey and Cigar Bar - Shot4Shot Bartending

Whiskey and Cigar Bar – The ultimate wedding reception : Shot4Shot Bartending owned by Aaron Ashford.

Shot 4 Shot Bartending is a Whiskey and Cigar Bar. It’s the perfect fit for your high class speakeasy feel to your wedding reception and it wins this month’s Bad-Ass Vendor Award.

I met Aaron at a bridal fair this spring and I knew he would be the perfect vendor to have at weddings and I promptly asked him if I could interview him for the blog.

(10 points to those of you that remembered that I used to be a news reporter and LOVE interviewing and telling peoples stories!)

Aaron Ashford, a generational cattle rancher, got into bartending while attending college at Kansas State University in the Little Apple, Manhattan Kansas.

(I mean he’s already got my vote from graduating from my Ala Mater – us Wildcats gotta stick together!)

The Beginning

He began working at O’Malley’s in Aggieville (the bar and restaurant street for those of you not familiar with Manhattan Kansas), where he eventually rose up to become the head Bar Manager.

“What I loved most about bartending was the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Every shift brought new faces and new stories, and I cherished those moments of connection as I crafted drinks’, said Aaron.

The Experience

For the high end experience, Aaron and his team don their western suit jackets, the rich textures of cowhide rugs and a beautifully refinished wooden bar, paired with the best whisky’s and cigars.

For those who wish to have a more causal light hearted rural feel, Aaron offers a unique bar constructed from hay bales!

No matter the theme of your event, Shot 4 Shot, is there for you, offering exceptional bartending services and a range of unique and customizable options to elevate your event all the while delivering top-tier service tailored to your vision.

The Inspiration

“From a young age, I spent time with my Grandpa and Uncle, on their cattle ranch. I embraced the hardworking, resilient lifestyle of a Kansas rancher. The Western way of life runs through my veins, and it holds a special place in my heart. I wanted to share this passion for ranching and cowboy culture with others who also appreciate the rugged, authentic spirit of the American West,” reminisced Aaron.

Shot4Shot provides comprehensive bartending services and a variety of liquor options to ensure your wedding or event is seamless and stress-free. From crafting a personalized drink menu to managing all aspects of preparation, service during the reception, and full cleanup afterward, they handle it all. Aaron offers complete bar solutions, including the supply of liquor, non-alcoholic beverages, and drink stations.

With Shot4Shot, couples can relax knowing every detail related to the bar and drinks is expertly managed, allowing them to focus on enjoying their special day.

“As an outgoing and extroverted person, my favorite part of what I do is seeing my work transform into unforgettable memories for each couple. There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing I’ve helped create an experience that not only brings joy to the couple but also leaves a lasting impression on all their guests. Being able to contribute to those special moments and ensure everyone has the best time possible is what truly drives me,” said Aaron.

Pricing

The pricing is flexible to accommodate a range of needs, with packages starting as low as $400. For a more comprehensive experience, including full-service open bars, decor, and even providing the bar itself, prices typically range from $1,000 to $2,000. The final cost depends on various factors, such as the size of your event, the services you choose, and any customizations you request. Aaron is more than happy to work with each couple to create the perfect package that fits their vision and budget.

Advice for the Couples

When asked what piece of advice he would give to wedding couples, Aaron said “Take a deep breath—planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to pause and breathe. Give yourself the time you need to carefully choose your vendors. Don’t settle for the first option that comes up. Pay attention to how each vendor communicates with you and what unique packages or services they offer. What sets them apart? Remember, the vendors who take the time to understand your needs and provide personalized service will ensure that you don’t have to worry about a thing on your special day. Trust in those who make your experience a priority, so you can focus on what truly matters.”

Contact for more info

To contact Aaron, for more information, check out his website here and follow his Facebook page here!

“I continue to pour my love for both into the company, striving to create memorable experiences that reflect the same warmth, connection, and authenticity that inspired me”, stated Aaron.