Throwing a memorable party isn’t just about good music and a fun guest list—it’s about making sure your drink selection is on point. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a holiday gathering, or a milestone birthday bash in Ormond Beach, having the right mix of beer, wine, and spirits can make or break your event. This ultimate checklist will guide you through everything you need to stock your bar, calculate quantities, and impress your guests with a well-curated beverage experience.
Know Your Guest List
Before you hit the liquor store, estimate how many people you’re expecting—and more importantly, what they like to drink. Are they wine connoisseurs, craft beer enthusiasts, or cocktail lovers? Knowing this will help you balance your offerings.
A general rule of thumb: plan for 2 drinks per person during the first hour, and 1 drink per person for each additional hour. So for a 4-hour party with 20 guests, you’ll want to prepare for roughly 100 drinks total.
Essential Beer Selection
Must-Have Beers for Every Party:
- Light beer (think domestic lagers like Bud Light or Michelob Ultra)
- Craft IPAs or local brews from Florida
- Seasonal options (e.g., pumpkin ales, citrus summer brews, Oktoberfest lagers)
Beer is a party staple for good reason—it’s versatile, easy to serve, and universally loved. For variety, go with a mix of light beers and bold craft options. A 12-pack typically serves 4–6 guests depending on how much people drink.
Pro Tip: Showcase local flavor with craft beers from Florida breweries. Ormond Liquor carries a rotating selection of popular and limited-edition cans and bottles that will set your party apart.
Wine That Works for Every Crowd
Wine brings a touch of class to any event, and it’s easy to serve—no mixers needed. Here’s a well-balanced wine lineup:
Stock These Types:
- Red: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
- White: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling: Prosecco or Champagne
A 750ml bottle of wine yields about five glasses. If you’re expecting 20 guests, aim for 6–8 bottles to start. Don’t forget to chill your whites and sparkling ahead of time for optimal flavor.
Looking for boutique wines or something a little more special? Ormond Liquor offers a hand-selected inventory of premium reds, whites, and bubblies perfect for every celebration.
Spirits That Elevate the Bar
For guests who love mixed drinks or prefer neat liquor, a small collection of versatile spirits is essential.
Basic Spirits Checklist:
- Vodka (for martinis, Moscow Mules, and easy mixing)
- Whiskey or Bourbon (neat, on the rocks, or in Old Fashioneds)
- Tequila (for margaritas or tequila shots)
- Rum (light for mojitos, dark for Cuba Libres)
- Gin (essential for G&Ts and craft cocktails)
Don’t Forget the Mixers:
- Club soda, tonic water, cola, ginger beer
- Juices (orange, cranberry, lime)
- Garnishes: lemons, limes, mint, cherries, olives
Quality counts when it comes to spirits. If you’re looking to wow your guests, Ormond Liquor carries rare and premium liquors, from small-batch bourbons to artisanal tequilas.
Don’t Forget the Extras
A well-stocked drink station is about more than just the alcohol. Here’s what else you’ll need:
- Ice: Plan for 1–2 pounds of ice per guest
- Cups and Glassware: A mix of wine glasses, beer cups, and rocks glasses works well
- Tools: Cocktail shaker, strainer, stir sticks, wine opener
- Napkins and Coasters
- Coolers or Beverage Tubs: Essential if fridge space is limited
Set up your drink station so guests can serve themselves easily, and keep backup supplies close for quick restocking.
Specialty and Local Favorites
Want to take your party to the next level? Feature a signature cocktail like a bourbon lemonade, cucumber gin spritz, or sangria made with Spanish wine and fruit.
Showcase local spirits or beer as a talking point. Florida is home to an amazing craft beverage scene, and Ormond Liquor stocks many regional favorites. You could even theme your drink menu around Florida distillers or seasonal flavors.
Hosting Tips to Keep Things Running Smoothly
Even with the best drink menu, a few logistical details can make or break your event:
- Start With Snacks: Serving light appetizers early will help pace drinking
- Designate a Driver: Encourage Uber, Lyft, or DDs if you’re serving lots of alcohol
- Keep it Tidy: Use drink labels, signage, or chalkboard menus to organize offerings
- Monitor Supplies: Assign a friend to help restock ice and remove empties
- Offer a Mocktail Station: Not everyone drinks alcohol—provide soda, sparkling water, and fun non-alcoholic cocktails
Conclusion
A successful party starts with thoughtful planning—and that includes your beverage checklist. Whether you’re serving up craft beers, fine wines, or artisan spirits, your drink selection should reflect the mood and the crowd. The good news? You don’t have to do it alone.
Stop by Ormond Liquor in Ormond Beach for expert advice, exclusive products, and unbeatable service. From rare bourbons to Florida’s finest craft brews, we’ve got everything you need to stock your bar and make your next event unforgettable.