I love to host and entertain my family and friends, however, it is a lot of work. Before. During. And after the event. Especially if you decided not to hire a bartender for that meticulously planned holiday party.
Give yourself one less thing to do by setting up a self serve bar for your guests. Especially if your event is on the smaller side. It adds a fun and interactive element to a party and if your parties are anything like the ones I grew up with there is always someone who ends up taking on the mixologist role and even making you a special drink! Until that happens though here are a few tips to set up your self serve bar.
Plan your drink menu
Are you doing a full bar so guests can make what they like or a few signature drinks? I would suggest at least 2 festive and fun signature drinks that you can make a big batch of and serve with a dispenser. One on the stronger side and one on the lighter side such as a Holiday Sangria and a Grinch Martini. Or if your Jamaican like my family our Rum Punch and Sorrel. Having the signature drink makes it easier for those who can’t make up their mind.
If you opting for a full bar be sure to have basic spirits such as rum, vodka, bourbon and tequila along with a variety a mixers so your guests can come up with their favorite concoctions.
You know your crowd. If they are wine drinkers add few bottles of red and white wine and something bubbly like Prosecco or Champagne.
Include non-alcoholic options as well such as Spiced Apple Cider or a Christmas Punch and mint fruit infused water.
Choose a strategic location
Pick an area with lots of space around it and easy access to Place it away from high traffic areas to avoid congestion. If you don’t have an actual bar area a dedicated table or counter space works well too.
Set up your station
Set out your glassware such as wine glasses, and champagne flutes. By all means, keep things simple with an all purpose glass which can work for almost any drink. And of course keep a stash of disposable cups on hand too for larger crowds and to make cleanup easier.
Precut and place into small bowls a selection of garnishes such as lemon and lime wedges, or even fresh mint, rosemary, and berries for a fun treat. This is literally the cherry on top!
Some of the other items you’ll need are an ice bucket with a scoop or tongs, a cork screw and a bottle opener. Also extra ice to refill as needed, and napkins that match your theme or colors.
Style the bar
Make it fun! Add just a few festive touches like garland and fairy lights that don’t take up too much space. If there’s room, print a bar menu with the names of your specialty drinks and mocktails so your guests don’t have to play the guessing game of what they’re drinking.
Just before the party, add ice to the ice buckets, set out your garnishes and uncork a few bottles of wine. Last but not least, pour yourself a drink and enjoy your hard work. Cheers!
xoxo, Kareen
