When planning how much alcohol to buy for a cocktail party, a good rule of thumb is to assume 2 drinks per guest for the first hour, and 1 drink per guest for each subsequent hour. This formula helps ensure you have enough variety and quantity to keep everyone happy without overbuying.

Here's a general breakdown:

Types of Alcohol:

1. Spirits: Plan for about 1 bottle (750ml) for every 10-12 guests. People tend to drink mixed cocktails more slowly than other drinks, so this should cover a variety of cocktails. ○ If you're offering several types of spirits (vodka, gin, rum, etc.), aim to have at

   least one bottle of each for variety.
   

2. Wine: If you're offering wine as an option, plan on 1 bottle of wine for every 2-3

   guests. People typically drink wine faster than cocktails, especially if it's served during the first hour.
   

3. Beer: If you’re also providing beer, estimate 1-2 beers per guest, depending on their preferences and the length of the party.

Cocktail Example:

If you’re hosting a 3-hour cocktail party for 10 guests:

• First hour: 20 drinks (2 per guest)

• Next 2 hours: 10 drinks (1 per guest each hour)

So, you’ll need about 30 drinks total, which might break down into:

• 2 bottles of spirits (750ml each) for cocktails (assuming they’re popular).

• Around 3 bottles of wine if your guests also enjoy wine.

• 12-24 beers if some guests prefer beer.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks:

Don't forget to account for non-alcoholic options like sodas, mocktails, and sparkling water for guests who might want something lighter or are designated drivers.

By using these estimates, you can ensure there’s plenty to go around while keeping waste to a

minimum! Cheers! Drink Happy Thoughts!