How to Plan Drinks for Any Event
The Basic Formula
Plan for 1-2 drinks per person per hour. A typical 4-hour party needs about 6-8 drinks per guest. Our calculator adjusts based on your event type—casual BBQs trend higher, formal dinners trend lower.
The Right Mix
A typical party bar splits roughly: 40% beer, 30% wine, 20% spirits, 10% non-alcoholic. Adjust based on your crowd—wine lovers, beer enthusiasts, or cocktail connoisseurs will shift these ratios.
Drink Serving Guidelines
1 bottle = 1 serving
1 bottle = 5 glasses
1 bottle = 17 cocktails
1 lb per guest
Frequently Asked Questions
How much alcohol do I need for a wedding?
For a 5-hour wedding reception with 100 guests, plan for approximately 500 drinks total. A typical split: 150 beer, 150 wine, 100 cocktails, and 100 non-alcoholic drinks. Always add 10-15% buffer for late arrivals and heavy drinkers.
Should I offer a full bar or signature cocktails?
Signature cocktails are easier and more cost-effective. Choose 2-3 batch cocktails (one spirit-forward, one light/refreshing, one crowd-pleaser) and pre-mix them. This reduces bar wait times and ingredient waste significantly.
How much ice do I really need?
Plan for 1 pound of ice per guest as a baseline. Outdoor summer events need 1.5-2 lbs per person. Don't forget you need ice for both chilling drinks AND serving in glasses. It's one of the most common things to run out of—always buy extra!
What mixers should I have on hand?
Essential mixers: club soda, tonic water, ginger beer, cranberry juice, orange juice, and cola. For every bottle of spirits, plan for 3-4 liters of mixers. Fresh citrus (lemons, limes) is a must for garnishes and fresh juice.
How do I scale batch cocktails?
Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you need. Pro tip: reduce citrus juice by about 10% when scaling up—it can become overpowering. Always add carbonated ingredients (soda, sparkling wine) just before serving to keep the fizz.