The holidays are fast approaching, and many of us have already got plans to host our own seasonal soirées in the works. Beyond the basics like food and decorations, one of the most important aspects to consider when planning a party is how much alcohol to buy. Finding the right balance can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and a little preparation, you can estimate your needs accurately and host a fabulous party that your guests will remember for years to come.
Guest Count
To figure out the approximate amount of alcohol you’ll need, start by counting the number of confirmed guests. For cocktails and beer, a general rule of thumb is one drink per guest per hour. Wine and spirits, however, tend to be consumed a bit more slowly, so for these, you can calculate around 1.5 to 2 drinks per person per hour.
Variety Matters
Beyond making sure you’ve got enough alcohol in general, it’s a good idea to offer a variety of drinks that will cater to everyone’s preferences. Include a mix of beer, wine, and spirits, and consider making a specialty cocktail for a seasonal touch. Tailor your choices based on what you know about your crowd–wine enthusiasts will likely appreciate more wine options, for example.
Keep It Personal
As important as it is to understand your guests’ preferences, even more important is to be aware of any specific dietary requirements and provide different options accordingly. Have non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water and sodas on-hand, and consider making a seasonal mocktail if your menu and budget allow. Many types of alcohol also contain gluten, which is a common allergen, so you may want to make sure that some of your offerings are gluten-free.
