Event Planning in Calgary: Your Ultimate Guide to Beverages at The Commons Calgary
Beverages can be an integral part of your event, whether it’s alcoholic or non-alcoholic. In part two of our series, we’re answering the most commonly asked questions about beverages at events.
From determining the right amount of alcohol to serve to ensuring you have an ample supply of ice. Cheers to a successful gathering with The Commons Calgary!
How much alcohol should I serve at my event?
When planning bevies for your event, along with the budget, type of event, and timing, knowing your guest count is crucial. Aim for one beverage per guest per hour, adjusting for preferences such as heavy or light drinkers. Provide two servings of non-alcoholic beverages in the first hour and one per hour after.
Specifically, plan one bottle of wine for every two guests and one 12-ounce beer every half hour.
In terms of stocking your bar, consider the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for wine, 30% for beer, and 20% for spirits. For beer and wine-only events, allocate 70% to wine and 30% to beer. Use online calculators to determine the precise amount needed.
What alcohol should I offer guests?
Enhance your event at The Commons Calgary with a well-curated beverage selection. When serving beverages at an event, we recommend including two types of beer, one red wine, one white wine and one sparkling wine.
For an extra touch, feature a signature cocktail or include basic spirits (gin, bourbon, rum and vodka). Spirits with Smoke, one of our incredible local vendors, can help you curate your bar menu with custom cocktails!
Or maybe Tap Truck is more up your alley! With a vintage1949 vintage Chevy truck, you can stock your own kegs for a unique drinking experience.
Remember: don’t overlook the importance of non-alcoholic beverages! Include a mocktail or some of your favourite pop.
Keep in mind that a limited selection of beverages simplifies the planning and allows you to pair your drinks with your food.
How much Ice do I need for my event?
When it comes to ice for your event, it's important to consider various factors. Are you hosting an indoor or outdoor event? Summer or winter? Will the ice be solely for cooling drinks or also served in the drinks? Consider the types of beverages you'll be serving and if they're ice-heavy drinks (did someone say cocktails?).
As a general rule of thumb, if the ice is for cooling purposes only, allocate one pound of ice per guest. If ice is to be served in the drinks and used to keep them cool, allocate four pounds per guest for outdoor events and three pounds per guest for indoor events.
Remember: It's always better to have more ice than to run out.
Ways to save on beverages and bar
We’re all looking for ways to save when planning an event and we have a few ideas to help.
Opt for a cash bar instead of an open bar to manage costs and if you do choose an open bar, limit the selection to beer and wine with maybe a signature cocktail.
To avoid excessive refills at dinner service, request conservative pours.
Do you really need that champagne toast?
Be mindful that staff costs are part of your beverage budget, so reduce staff where possible. And chat with your caterer ahead of time about included gratuities, just for no surprises!
Collaborate with our amazing caterers and couple their bar and food services, which can reduce costs.
Lastly - in the Hemingway and Parlour Rooms, we do not charge a corkage fee! This can be a huge savings if you opt to purchase your own alcohol. Just remember that any booze needs to be served by a ProServe certified bartender.
We hope this guide has provided insights on planning beverages for your next event. The key is to remember to have enough beverages for your guests to have a great time.
If you’re having trouble though, don’t forget we’re here to help!