Calculate Alcohol Needs for Your NYC Event
Planning drinks for a party shouldn’t feel like guesswork. Whether you're organizing a wedding, a business reception, or a backyard celebration, knowing how much alcohol to order can save you stress, money, and last-minute runs to the liquor store. At Susan’s Kitchen Catering and Events, we help NYC hosts confidently plan bar service that feels complete — without going overboard.
Start with the Basics: Guests × Hours
The standard formula is simple: one drink per guest per hour. For a 4-hour event with 60 guests, you’ll need approximately 240 servings. Want a more detailed method? Use our alcohol planning calculator to refine your estimate.
Know Your Guest Preferences
Think about what your guests like to drink. Is it mostly wine? Cocktails? Beer? A standard mix is 40% wine, 35% beer, and 25% spirits. Our bar package pricing shows popular options based on event type.
If wine is a feature of your menu, explore our intro to wine varietals to choose the right pairings for your vibe and dishes.
Estimate Total Drinks Required
For accurate forecasting, use this formula:
Drinks = Guests × (2 drinks for first hour + 1 drink per additional hour)
Example for a 4-hour event with 100 guests:
- First hour: 100 × 2 = 200 drinks
- Next 3 hours: 100 × 3 = 300 drinks
- Total: 500 drinks
Need help refining it? Visit our alcohol party planning guide for expert insight.
Factors That Impact Alcohol Consumption
- Event Type: Weddings typically see higher consumption than corporate events.
- Time of Day: Evening parties mean more drinks served.
- Season: Warm weather increases drink volume.
- Demographics: Age, preferences, and group size matter.
- Transportation: More guests drink if rides are arranged.
- Food Availability: More food generally slows down alcohol intake.
Review our alcohol service policies to plan for safe and responsible service.
Break Down Beverage Types
Use this standard ratio:
- Beer: 40%
- Wine: 30%
- Spirits: 30%
From 500 total drinks:
- Beer: 200 servings
- Wine: 150 servings
- Spirits: 150 servings
Stay legally compliant with guidance from our bar catering liability insurance resource.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer Events
- Expect higher consumption
- Plan for lighter drinks and chilled options
- Offer 2–3 bottles of water per guest
- Stock 1.5 lbs of ice per person
Winter Events
- Lower drink volumes
- Focus on warm, spirit-forward cocktails
- Favor red wines over whites
- 0.75 lbs of ice per guest usually suffice
Include Non-Alcoholic Options
Serve at least 1 non-alcoholic beverage per guest per hour. That’s 400 drinks for 100 guests at a 4-hour event. Learn the basics in our bar terminology guide.
Tailor Estimates to Event Type
- Corporate: Reduce by 10–15%. Increase water and soft drinks.
- Weddings: Increase totals by 10% and add a champagne toast.
- Cocktail Parties: Add 15–20% and prioritize spirits.
Need inspiration for drink styles? Review our basic drink making skills guide.
How to Convert to Containers
Beer
- 12 oz = 1 serving
- 1 case = 24 bottles/cans
- Half keg = 165 servings
Wine
- 5 oz = 1 glass
- 1 bottle = 5–6 servings
- 1 case = 12 bottles
Spirits
- 1.5 oz = 1 serving
- 750ml bottle = 16 drinks
- 1L bottle = 22 drinks
- 1.75L bottle = 39 drinks
For beer guidance, visit our beer basics guide.
Serve Like a Pro with the Right Tools
From jiggers to bar spoons, quality tools make your service smooth. Our glassware guide and equipment checklist cover everything you need.
Get to Know the Spirits You Serve
Master spirits, modifiers, and flavor profiles with our liquor types guide and wine varietal overview.
Understand NYC Event Alcohol Laws
- Check for local permits
- Use certified bartenders
- Carry event liability insurance
Get support with permits and compliance from our NYC bar catering experts.
Bar Budgeting: What to Expect
- Beer & Wine: $15–25 per person
- Full Bar: $25–35 per person
- Premium Bar: $35–50+ per person
Make Your Event Effortless
Check off your essentials with our well-stocked bar checklist and preview our popular cocktails and drinks to finalize your bar menu.
Work with a Trusted NYC Partner
At Susan’s Kitchen, we offer more than catering. Our experienced team helps plan your bar with accuracy, delivers seamless service, and makes your event unforgettable. Whether it’s a rooftop wedding or corporate gala, we’ll help you execute it flawlessly.
Do you offer help with equipment and setup?
Yes. We can guide you on bar tools, glassware, and all essentials. Check our bar equipment and glassware guides to get started.
Can I customize the drink menu for my event?
Absolutely. Consider offering a signature cocktail or tailoring the beer and wine selection to your menu and guest preferences.
Should I plan for extra alcohol?
It’s wise to err on the side of caution and have a little extra, especially for longer events or if your group tends to drink more. Leftovers are usually better than running out.
What if my guests have special drink requests?
We can customize your bar menu with signature cocktails, spirit preferences, and even themed drinks to fit your event style.
Can Susan’s Kitchen help me staff my bar?
Absolutely. We provide experienced, certified bartenders and can assist with full-service bar planning and execution.
How can I stay on budget with my bar setup?
Use our bar package pricing to select options that match your guest count, event type, and preferred drink mix.
How do I calculate how much alcohol I need for my event?
Use the standard formula: Guests × (2 drinks for the first hour + 1 drink per additional hour). For example, 100 guests at a 4-hour event would need approximately 500 drinks.
What’s the best ratio of beer, wine, and spirits for a general event?
A common breakdown is 40% beer, 30% wine, and 30% spirits. This can be adjusted depending on your guest preferences.
How many drinks are in a bottle of wine or liquor?
A standard 750ml wine bottle serves 5–6 glasses. A 750ml liquor bottle yields about 16 mixed drinks based on a 1.5 oz pour.
How much ice should I plan for per guest?
For summer events, plan 1.5 pounds of ice per person. For winter events, 0.75 pounds per person is typically enough.
Let’s Start Planning Your Event!
Our expert event planners are ready to answer your questions and help turn your vision into reality. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a wedding, Susan’s Kitchen is your trusted partner for top-tier catering services. From healthy options to special dietary needs, we’ve got you covered.
Contact Susan’s Kitchen today to discuss your next event—we’re here to make it unforgettable.
