6 Useful Bartending Tips for Your Next Holiday Party or Event
Hey there, party planners! Ready to throw a holiday bash that’ll have your guests talking till next New Year’s? Well, you’re in luck! To help you become the perfect host, we’ve combined our professional advice with tried-and-true tips to ensure your event is a hit. Let’s go over them!
1. Plan your drink menu in advance
First things first, let’s talk drinks. Before your guests arrive, have a clear idea of what cocktails you’ll be offering. Consider a mix of classic and innovative drinks to cater to different tastes. Preparing a signature cocktail for the event can also add a personal touch. Also, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools ready.
It is also important to consider the number of guests, their preferred drink styles, and the party’s duration. This will guide your choices in glassware, ingredients, and ice. Research recipes, make a grocery list for fresh ingredients, and prepare as much as possible the day before. Remember, plenty of ice is crucial!
2. Stock up on essential bar tools
It’s all about the tools, folks! A shaker, jigger, strainer, bar spoon, and muddler are your new best friends. High-quality tools not only make the process smoother but also add a professional flair to your bartending. Don’t forget glassware – having a variety of glasses suitable for different types of cocktails is crucial.
3. Master the art of mixing
Balance is everything. Understanding the basics of mixing drinks is vital. This includes knowing how to properly shake or stir a cocktail, how long to mix, and the right proportions of ingredients. And hey, practice makes perfect, so don’t be shy to give it a whirl before the big day.
4. Garnishes and presentation
Garnishes are the cherry on top – literally! The visual appeal of your cocktails is almost as important as their taste. Learn a few simple garnishing techniques like citrus twists, herb sprigs, or edible flowers. The right garnish can elevate a simple drink into a memorable one.
5. Be mindful of your guests
Hospitality is the heart of bartending. Keep an eye on your guests’ needs. Spot an empty glass? Time for a refill. Someone looking for a change? Offer them something new. It’s all about making your guests feel like VIPs.
6. Curate a diverse yet simple drink menu
Variety is the spice of life, but don’t go overboard. Offer a range of drinks but avoid overwhelming choices. For beer, include a light, crushable option and two other styles.
Select two reds and two whites for wine, mixing popular choices with something unique.
For cocktails, consider a refreshing style, a spirit-forward stirred option, and a carbonated drink like a gin and tonic. Surprise guests with special drinks as the night progresses, like a canned espresso martini for dessert.
Bonus Tip: Offer non-alcoholic options
Not everyone’s into the boozy stuff, and that’s cool. Offering a selection of non-alcoholic cocktails or mocktails ensures that all your guests have enjoyable options.
Too Much Work? Let Us Help You Raise the Bar
So, you’ve got the tips, but maybe you’re thinking, ‘This sounds like a lot of work.’ Well, fear not! The Clever Barkeep is here to save the day.
At The Clever Barkeep, we bring the art of mixology to your doorstep. Our team of skilled bartenders and mixologists is passionate about crafting the perfect drink and creating an atmosphere that your guests will talk about long after the party is over.
From crafting custom cocktail menus to providing full-service bartending, we’ve got it all. And it’s not just about the drinks – we’re talking full-on party transformation. Menu planning, drink customization, mixology workshops – you name it, we do it.
Ready to take your holiday party to the next level? Contact The Clever Barkeep today. We’ll handle the drinks; you make the memories!
