36 FAQ About Renting a Margarita Machine
Hopefully where ever you're located, you'll use this guide to find a margarita machine rental company that you'll continue to use over and over again.
----> Throughout the article I will refer to a margarita machine or a frozen drink machine -- They're the same thing. <----
How much does it cost to rent a margarita machine?
Our margarita machine rentals and frozen drink machines start out at $xxx.xx and can run up to $xxx.xx depending on the type of party package. All of our party packages include free delivery, setup, pickup, your first two bottles of our All-Natual Gourmet Drink Mixes, use of a 5-gallon pre-measured mixing container, a heavy duty rolling cart with skirting, 50 cups, straws and margarita salt and/or sugar with a 3 tier rimmer.
----> Prices can be as low as $75 per machine to as high as $250 for two machines. Ask your margarita machine rental company about different party packages or special offers.<----
Are the machines easy to use?
Absolutely! We'll even mix your first batch and show you how to operate the machine. In addition, we leave easy to follow laminated instructions. As always we are available for support 24 hours a day in case you have questions or concerns.
----> the last line is very important, just in case you're having problems with the machine or you need extra drink mixes. Make sure your margarita machine rental company provides you with at least two numbers to contact them. <----
How much ice do I need?
NONE! Just pour in the mix and the machine does the rest.
How much mix will I need?
Our experience shows that usually half or more guests drink the frozen drinks even if you offer them a choice (it's a novelty). About every 25 people at your party will go through a batch of mix & each batch will produce approximately 70 nine ounce drinks.
What size cups do you provide?
The nine ounce cups that we provide are the best size to use. With a larger cup, the drink will become warm before your guest finishes; consequently, you'll find many guests pouring it out and refilling. Also, using larger cups causes the machine to have to take longer to freeze in between servings.
What do the cups look like?
The cups are clear, short cocktail cups. We can also provide specialty glassware in plastic or glass, such as margarita glasses, for an additional charge. Just let us know when you call or reserve online.
What kind of mix do you provide?
We manufacturer a high quality line of Gourmet Drink Mixes which are all natural, preservative free and have no added colors or flavorings. Our mixes are made using only the freshest citrus juices, fresh fruit purees and fruit juices available. Our mixes are made just days, sometimes hours before your event and are mixed with a ratio of 3 to 1.
----> I suggest looking for a margarita machine rental company that offers a drink mix with a ratio of 3 to 1 or 4 to 1. Basically, this tells you the ratio of water to drink mix. The lower the ratio, the more natural flavoring and better the mix. Example of 3 to 1drink mix: Mix 3 parts water with 1 part mix. <----
----> Sometimes you just have to go with the flow, as not all margarita machine rental companies offer gourmet drink mixes. <----
How much mix do you bring, I don’t want to run out.
We bring MORE then you need but you only pay for what you open. The first batch of mix is on us, and any extra drink mixes that you open will cost $xx.xx per bottle.
Can we use the machine for non-alcoholic drinks?
Certaintly! All of our All-Natural Gourmet Drink Mixes can be mixed with or without alcohol, especially great for kids parties.
What is your biggest complaint?
Running out of mix, by far! Please accept the extra mixes that we leave behind; remember - you only pay for what you use.
How do I clean the machine?
YOU DON'T - WE DO! Leave the dirty work to us. When you are finished with your party, just turn off the machine and leave it alone. We'll pick it up at the agreed time and clean it.
How long can I keep the machine?
We drop it off the day of the party and pick it up the next day at the agreed time. Although, if you need it picked up that same evening, we can arrange for that as well, for an additional fee. If you need it longer, please let us know when you make your reservation and we will quote you an extended rental rate. Please note that overnight rentals do not mean the rental is for 24 hours.
How long does it take for the first batch to freeze?
The first batch will typically freeze in about 30 minutes; outdoors, on a warm day, it may take up to an hour, but if cold water and cold alcohol are used, the time will signaficantly be reduced.
What if I want to make more, then what?
With our frozen drink machines there is no waiting between batches because you add to the top of the reservoir when the mix-low light comes on.
----> Some margarita machine rental companies use the plastic bowl versions. These machines will re-liquefy the drink mix when a new batch is added, thus requiring your guests to wait for the drinks to be ready, sometimes up to an hour!! Yikes!! Look for margarita machine companies that use the commercial style stainless steel machines as they allow your party to continue without interruptions. Some plastic bowl machines do offer quick freeze so just make sure you ask and do a little research.<----
What if I want to provide more that 1 flavor to my guests?
Our machines are designed to make one flavor at a time. But you have a couple of options. You could rent an additional machine for a second flavor at a discount rate or we have a special party package that allows you to serve 5 flavors with one machine. Just ask us about this special party package.
Who provides the alcohol?
The customer provides all the alcohol and accepts full responsibility for providing it at their event. Our products are all provided completely alcohol free.
Will the machines work for any type of event?
Yes. We provide party rentals for birthdays, graduations, private house parties, showers, weddings, holiday parties, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs...plus, company parties, corporate events, festivals, conventions, tradeshows, fundraisers, backyard barbecues, open houses or just about anything you can think of.
On the other hand, you don't even have to have an occasion, just the desire to have a perfect, fun and memorable lasting party or event.
What kind of drink mix flavors are available?
We offer cocktail drink mixes - for the adults, slushy mixes for the kids and smoothie mixes for all. Some of our flavors include seven types of Margaritas, including Strawberry, Red Raspberry, Mango, Peach, Tamarindo, Prickly Pear and of course our classic Lime Margarita. We also have Pina Colada, Strawberry Daquiri, Louisanna Hurricane, Mai Tai, Mudslide, White Russian, Cola, Sangria, Blue Hawaiian, Fuzzy Navel and more. If we don't have your flavor, just ask us and we'll make it!
Can these machines be used for kid’s parties?
Most definitely! Any of our drink flavors can be served non-alcoholic for adult and kid's events. We also offer a special packages for kid's parties, just ask us.
Can I pick up the machine for a cheaper price?
We always deliver our machines so that we can make sure they are set up and working properly before your party begins. The machines weigh around 200 pounds and are difficult to move around.
When do you deliver the machine?
Whether you place a reservation online or over the phone, we will determine the appropiate delivery time according to that days delivery schedule. Our policy is usually to delivery approximately 1-2 hours before your event time. Although, you may request a delivery time that suits your schedule, we will try our best to accommodate. We will call you the day before your event to confirm your delivery
What are my responsibilities when you deliver the machine?
First of all, when we arrive, we need to speak with someone who will be resposible for the operation of the machine. Secondly, we need the liquor for your first batch of drinks. One of our friendly staff members will make your first batch, make sure the machine is set up and working properly, show you how to operate the machine and leave you with laminated written operating instructions. As always we are available for support 24 hours a day.
Does the machine require electricity?
Yes. Our machines need a dedicated 15-amp outlet (110 volt 20 amp circuit), meaning no other electrical devices or appliances should be using the same circuit. The machine should be located near the electrical outlet, not more that 25 feet. But if not possible, we will provide you with the proper extension cord (12 gauge).
How long do I get to keep the machine?
We rent our machines on a day by day basis. We will deliver your machine sometime that day and will pick up the machine sometime the following morning. We usually have other parties and events for that next day, so we need ample time to pick-up, clean and prepare the machine for the next rental. If you have a special request, just let us know and we will try to accommodate your needs.
How far in advance should I reserve my machine?
We recommend you reserve your machine at least two weeks or more prior to your event; however, during peak times such as July 4th, Memorial Day, Cinco de Mayo, Labor Day, Super Bowl Weekend, Halloween, New Years Eve and Christmas, you may need to reserve sooner.
When do you pick up the machine?
Usually the following day. Our friendly staff member will arrange a time that is convenient for you to come by and pick up the machine. Otherwise, if you require a specific time just let us know when you make your reservation. Additional charges will apply if same night pick-up is needed.
What do I do if there’s mix left in the machine?
You can keep the remaining mix, it's yours! Simply drain out the mix into pitchers, containers, baggies and store them in your refrigerator to have later for "on the rocks". The mix can also be stored in the freezer.
How much alcohol is needed?
Our basic recipe for margaritas is a 1.75 liter bottle of tequila for the first batch or your first two free bottles. You may also add triple sec or your favorite orange liquor if you want. For mixes requiring rum or vodka, the ratio is about the same.
What type of tequila should I buy?
We recommend an inexpensive silver tequila. Since the margaritas are frozen, you really can't taste any difference, but then again, there are some that go for the good stuff! It's up to you, but the cost should range around $xx - $xx per bottle of tequila, rum or vodka.
Can I use my own drink mixes?
Our machines are picky, and need to have the correct ratio of sugar and water in order to freeze properly. If there is a mix that you would like, just ask and we usually can make it for you, given ample time.
Can the machines be placed outdoors?
Just as long as its within 25 feet of an electrical outlet. If the machine is going to be outdoors, please place in a shaded area out of direct sunlight. During warmer months we recommend that the machine be located indoors (air conditioned) for the best results. Since Tucson is known for its heat, if it's expected to reach 95 F degrees, it is mandatory that the machine be located indoors.
What size is the machine?
Our machines our approximately 18 inches wide, 24 inches deep and stands about 5 feet tall when sitting on the heavy duty rolling cart. It's weight is approx. 200 lbs.
Are the machines noisy
The machine have motors and fans that periodically will go on and off throughout the serving period, so some noise is heard, but otherwise not very loud.
What payment methods can I use?
We accept payment by cash, check or credit card. We accept visa, master card, american expess and discover card using our payment system.
I’m ready to make my reservation - now what?
All that is required to make your reservation is your event information and a small deposit! Give us a call or reserve online.
If you're in the Tucson, Arizona area take a look at my website, www.bajamamas.com and click the RESERVATION BUTTON. Then follow the step-by-step instructions. One of our friendly staff members will call you to verify your reservation.
Thanks for visiting!