Hosting the holidays comes with enough to think about already. A well-planned drink table is one thing you can check off early - here's how to build one that covers every guest.
Start with a Signature Drink
One easy, batch-friendly cocktail or mocktail gives your gathering a bit of festive character without requiring you to play bartender all night. A warm spiced cider or a simple punch, made ahead in a big pitcher, lets guests serve themselves.
Cover Your Bases: Wine, Beer, and Spirits
Holiday crowds tend to be a genuine mix of preferences - a red and a white wine, a couple of beer options, and a spirit or two for anyone mixing their own drink covers most of what people will ask for. You don't need a huge selection, just enough variety that nobody's stuck with something they don't enjoy.
A Non-Alcoholic Option That Doesn't Feel Like an Afterthought
Sparkling cider, a festive mocktail, or a non-alcoholic beer poured into a nice glass goes a long way for guests who aren't drinking - whether that's a designated driver, a guest who doesn't drink, or someone just taking it easy that night. Presentation matters here as much as the drink itself.
How Much to Buy for a Crowd
As a rough estimate, plan for two to three drinks per guest for a few hours of gathering, and adjust up if the party runs into the evening. It's easier to have a little extra on hand for guests who stay late than to run out mid-party.
Timing Your Shopping Trip
The days right before a holiday tend to be the busiest at any liquor store, ours included. Shopping a few days ahead means shorter lines, better odds that everything on your list is in stock, and one less thing to squeeze in on the day itself.
Visit Us Before Your Next Gathering
Stop by our Trenton store to build out your full holiday lineup in one trip - our team is happy to help you plan around your guest list and budget.
