1. Pick Your Poison
Start by deciding what kind of drinks you want to serve. Do you want to keep it simple with wine and beer or will you be making a signature cocktail? Maybe you even prefer a full bar so guests can make their favourite cocktail?
Each option has its pros and cons and requires different approaches to stocking the bar.
2. Stock Up
No matter what types of drinks you’ll be serving, make sure you have all of the necessary supplies. For wine and beer, your beer options will most likely be in cans or bottles, but you’ll need plenty of glasses for wine. And don’t forget a bottle opener and corkscrew!
If you’ll be serving a full bar, you’ll want to have jiggers, stirrers, an ice bucket, and shakers, plus plenty of mixers. Everyone makes their favorite cocktail a little differently, so be sure you have everything they’ll need. You don’t want them to have to hunt you down in the middle of the party to find a strainer! And don’t forget lemons and limes.
3. Signature or bubbly style
We love how festive a signature cocktail feels, no matter what type of party you’re throwing! Not only are they a fun way for guests to get in the spirit, but they’re easy to make and don’t require a ton of work. Just mix up your favorite drink (some drinks you can even make a day in advance), pour it in a punch bowl, and set out plenty of glassware.
We love the own created Christmas Cocktail by Chyka Keebaugh — a Gin classic with fresh ingredients and a greenish look. Here’s her recipe.
BUT: Nothing says ‘party’ like a bottle of champagne, so if you don’t feel like mixing a signature cocktail, a few bottles of sparkling wine can bring that same festive feel. You don’t even need a corkscrew!
4. Alcohol Free Options
While we’re on the topic of non-alcoholic beverages, be sure you have plenty of options for any friends or family members who don’t drink. You certainly don’t want anyone to be stuck drinking tap water when everyone else is celebrating.
What are your favourite Christmas drinks?
Anything we’ve forgotten? Share with us in the comments.