TIP 1
Water & Non-Alcoholic Beverages
On the average, expect guests to drink 2 drinks or servings of a nonalcoholic beverage the first hour and 1 each hour thereafter. Remember, people drink more when the weather is warm.
TIP 2
Bar Drinks
If you plan to serve bar drinks, you should allow 1.5 ounces of liquor for each drink. This will yield approximately 16 drinks from each 750-milliliter bottle of liquor.
TIP 3
Serving Wine
When serving wine, plan on one 750-milliliter bottle for every two guests (one bottle for every 3 to 4 guests if the wine will be served only during a meal). If you prefer to buy the large 1.5-liter bottle of wine, it will serve 4 guests (6 to 8 guests if served only during a meal).
TIP 4
Ordering Beer
When ordering beer for a party, allow about 12 ounces per guest for every half hour to hour. You might want to buy a keg if you have a large crowd.
How to Stocked Your Bar for a Party
Keep your guests happy with a nice selection of beverages. When planning your shopping list, consider the type of event, time of day, location, onsite amenities, staff and your guests.
Basic Shopping List
- Water – Be sure your guests stay hydrated and if your budget allows offer sparkling water
- Sodas and Juices – Offer a simple selection that can be served alone or mixed
- Wine, Beer and Champagne - a good staple to serve at any party
- Mixers - Plan on plenty of tonic water and include diet sodas and juices
- Lemons & Limes - Prepare a head of time have slices and twists handy
- Olives & Maraschino Cherries – A nice touch at a bar station
- Ice - Buy enough so you don’t run out. Plan to have more when the weather is hot
- Cocktail Napkins – Buy extra if serving passed hors d’oeuvres
Full Bar Set Up
- Gin
- Tequila
- Bourbon
- Sweet Vermouth
- Dry Vermouth
- Rum
- Irish Whiskey
- Vodka
- Scotch
- Martini Shaker
- Martini Olives
- Bar Towels
- Long Mixing Spoon
- Ice Bucket & Scoop or Tongs
- Wine Opener
- Toothpicks
- Straws
- Umbrellas
- Sugars
- Salt
- Blender
