Don’t make these rookie bartender mistakes

October 15, 2024Lauren Windle

Experienced caterers and bartenders caution against “winging it” when it comes to bartending and stocking an open bar.

Even though most bartenders will tell you that you never know for sure what people will drink at any given event, they all say you need to know:

  • The age group of those attending
  • The time of the year
  • The type of celebration

#1 tip from our seasoned pros? Hire a seasoned bartender (or two). Don’t try to “do it yourself.”

Tip #2: Have extra ice on hand (you’ll go through more than you think.)_

At Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering, we know to plan ahead – especially when it comes to stocking an open bar. Having a fairly good read of the type of event and who is attending is vital. (Will it be clients? Friends and family? More men than women? 20-somethings? 40-somethings?) All of this knowledge plays into what people will be drinking – and how much

You’ll also want to note in advance:

  • the season
  • the temperature (Outdoor summer event or indoor)

As you might imagine, a summer event outside will make light beers, white wine, and vodka tonics more popular.

An indoor fall or holiday event? Plan for hearty red wines, mixed drinks, more bourbon, and perhaps, coffee drinks.

In general, younger crowds will drink more beer and less wine. Older crowds will drink more wine and cocktails. Women usually drink more wine and lighter cocktails. More men always means more beer – and variety of the brews served will be very important.

Knowing your audience is key!

Interestingly, younger and older groups drink just about as much vodka. Bourbon is the new favorite, with many folks looking for popular (and pricey) brands.

What if your crowd is many different ages? Here are a few recommendations from our favorite bartenders:

  • At a wedding reception, name a cocktail after the honeymoon destination. Make the name fun and memorable.
  • If it’s a business reception, name a signature cocktail after the
    company brand in a creative way.
  • You can always offer 2 bars, one for wine and beer (and stock a few leading brands) and add a second bar for cocktails. This will help speed up the bar line as well.
  • Add a list of 4 or 5 popular cocktails to choose from. People will almost always choose from the list.

Not only will guests enjoy the special cocktail idea, you will cut down on the number of other liquor types you need to have available at the bar.

What about the numbers?

  • For every 100 guests, allow 4 hours of open bar.
  • More than 100 guests? Add another bar. You don’t want long waits in line at one bar.

Pro tip: Planning how bar traffic flows at an event is very important. Nobody wants to push past people ordering a drink while cutting through restroom traffic. 

It’s good to have a little background information before you throw your next party.  Now that you know how to plan, get out there and enjoy your party with your guests!

© 2024 Jacquie's Gourmet Catering. All Rights Reserved.
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