So, you’re hosting a cocktail party and don’t know where to start? Even if you are new to this or never obtained licenses and certifications before, like RBS certification, know that you can always pull out a successful event. You can never go wrong if you know how to stock the bar. 

Perhaps the first question you have in mind is how you want your bar to be – is it full or just a limited cocktail bar? That’s why in this article, we will give you tips and guidelines about bar stocking guides for any special events, even if you don’t have an RBS certification yet. Following these guidelines will be an advantage and work best for any party. So, without further ado, let’s get started! 

What You Need to Know for Cocktail Party Planning 

You probably haven’t had licenses and certifications such as RBS certification before. So with that, consider these things when planning a cocktail party.

1. Determine how Many Drinks Per Guest 

When you set up a bar for the party, figuring out how much and what guests are going to drink can be tricky. There are many options available, and there are factors that would influence how much and what the guests will drink. So it would always get tricky. 

In planning a party, the best advice is that guests should drink only about two glasses during the first hour, and later, only one after that. The drinks you provide them can be beer, wine, cocktails, or even nonalcoholic beverages. You won’t believe this, but many guests prefer a combination throughout the event. 

2. Stocking the Cocktail Menu

You should also come up with a cocktail menu. It’s one way to cut costs because you’ll only need ingredients for certain drinks you choose. It also allows you to design your menu around the party theme. 

The steps are quite simple, and you only have to decide which cocktails you will offer, estimate the number of guests you are expecting, and determine how much each mixer and liquor are needed per drink. 

And since there are about 25 ounces or an average of 16 shots in the 750 ml bottle, you have to use this to estimate how many bottles for each ingredient you’re going to need. You only have to add one extra bottle for the base spirits, such as vodka, rum, and whiskey. Put any leftover bottles in the regular bar right after the party. 

3. Deciding the Bar Service 

This is probably the first thing you’ll ask when you decide how to set up the bar. You should know that there must be two basic options that most party or event bars fall into, these are: 

• Standard Beer and Wine Bar 

This is probably the most common option, the beer and wine-only bar. If you don’t have liquor, this is pretty much more affordable if the host is going to pick up the tab. Also, from the bar’s perspective, it would be a lot easier to stock since there would be no other choices. 

• Stocking the Full Bar

The full bar option can be complicated and expensive because you will need high-quality mixers and liquor. However, one advantage of this is that guests may order the drink they desire. 

The following chart is the average bar stock based on how many guests attend. You may choose to exclude some ingredients based on what your guests want. For instance, if you already know there won’t be martini drinkers in the crowd, reduce or exclude the vermouth. Know that some parties don’t need a brandy or any wide range of liquors. 

4. Pricing of the Bar

Everyone knows the guests and even anyone. The liquor may cost a lot of money. In some parties, the cash bar must be the standard. Many wedding receptions already have a cash bar. 

5. Never Forget the Ice 

Of course, another key to getting that great drink is ice. Prepare about one pound of ice per person, as this will be enough to mix drinks and keep the wine and beer of your guests cold. 

6. Hire a Bartender 

No matter how big the party, even the private one, it’s a good idea to hire a professional bartender who knows how to set the bar for events and parties. Bartenders have licenses and RBS certifications and know how to get the job done right, as they are trained enough to serve. 

Conclusion

There are endless possibilities when you stock your bar for any special event. With proper planning and appropriate stocks, you are always sure that the bar is ready to serve and will keep them returning. 

So, whether you are hosting a birthday party, wedding, or corporate event, having a cocktail bar will guarantee success for the event.