Party Portions

Here are some basic guidelines to help you calculate beverage service for a typical 2 1/2 hour coctail party. If you're planning to serve wine, sparkling wine or Champagne, allow one bottle for every two to three guests. For self-serve bars, allow 1 quart or liter of liqur for every 10-12 guests. If you're acting as mixologist, assume that each guest will drink 2 1/2 cocktails. For any bar menu, be sure to provide 1 quart of filtered water for every two guests. Don't forget the personalized napkins- order 2 per guest per hour for the cocktail table.