Event Alcohol Planning Checklist

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Consumption

  • How many guests will be attending?
  • What time will guests arrive and when is the event over?
  • When planning an event, the general advice is that guests will drink two drinks the first hour, and one drink per hour after that. These drinks can be cocktails, beer, wine, or non alcoholic beverages, and many guests will opt for a combination throughout the night. 
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Bar Details

  • What kind of bar will you have? Open, Cash, or Twoonie?
  • Add a signature cocktail or welcome beverage to your event– our mixologists are here to help you incorporate the theme of your event into a signature drink
  • Plan for and offer a great mocktail or two for guests that don't drink alcohol.
  • Typically, you need one bartender per 50 guests to keep the line at a minimum. If you are serving a signature cocktail that cannot be made ahead of time (or in large quantities), consider adding an extra server designated to this task.
  • Will you have wine on each table for dinner? How many guests are seated per table?
  • Expect 1 bottle of wine per 4–5 guests – 1 bottle of wine will serve 4–5 glasses.
  • Will you have beer in cans or bottles?
Wine vs. Beer vs. Liquor Icon

Wine vs. Beer vs. Liquor

  • Wine and Beer only: Expect a mix of 70% Wine, 25% Beer, 5% Cider / Cooler
  • Wine, Beer, and Liquor: Expect a mix of 50% Wine, 30% Liquor, 17% Beer, 3% Cider/Cooler
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Sparkling

  • Will you be pouring tasters of sparkling wine for toasts?
  • Expect 1 bottle per 7–8 guests to raise a toast
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Ice

  • Don’t forget to plan your ice needs. Plan on one pound of ice per person. This will be enough for mixing drinks and to keep the beer and wine cold.
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Glassware

  • Plan your glassware & service needs (and don't forget mixed & hard drinks)*
    *Our consultants can assist with recommendations for this service.
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Permit

  • Don’t forget your Special Event Permit!