It can depend on several factors including time of day, and how many hours your party is going to last.
Whether you are throwing a party for friends or a wedding reception, its always a good idea to choose a variety of beverages. Just remember if you are purchasing the alcohol you assume the liability for all your guests that evening. There are some insurance companies that provide one day home owner liquor liability, that is based on how many guests are attending.I heard it can be quite costly, talk to your agent about options.
You can figure on average that guests will drink 2 drinks the first hour and then 1 drink the next hour, ect. So based on 50 people you will serve around 250 drinks during the party. A 1.75L bottle of alcohol will serve around 32 drinks. When purchasing wine it's more economical to purchase a case rather than by the bottle. You can figure around 4 cocktail napkins per person, also remember to stock enough glasses so that your guests can trade their used glass in for a fresh one more than once.
Here is what you need based on 50 guests at a 4 hour party
3-4 22lb bags of ice
Lemons
Limes
Cherries
Olives
1- Bottle of triple sec
1- Bottle of roses lime
1- Case of white wine
1- case of red wine
1- 1.75L bottle of vodka
( Small bottles)
!- Gin
1-Bourbon
1- Scotch
1-Caniadian Club
1-Jack Daniels
1-Light Rum
1- Spiced Rum
4- Bottles of tonic
3-4 Bottles of Diet Coke, Sprite
5 - Cases of Beer.. 2 Light , 2 regular, 1 imported
2- Cases of bottled water
Another option for consideration is purchasing a few cordials, although this is more frequently done at wedding receptions. Check with the liquor store in your area to see if they sell on consignment basis, that way you can return any liquor not used, ( all labeling needs to be intact).
Of course if you would prefer to enjoy your party for a change you should consider hiring a bartender to help you.
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