So, you’ve decided to host a private event for 100 people. Ambitious? Absolutely. Crazy? Maybe just a little. But let’s not pretend like you aren’t secretly loving the idea of being the life of the party—or at least the one who provides the liquid courage.

Before you start dreaming of your guests singing your praises (or singing, period), let’s talk about the most important part of any event: the bar. Because let’s face it, no one remembers the decorations or the appetizers if the drinks aren’t on point.

Here’s your sassy, no-nonsense guide to stocking your bar like a pro for a crowd of 100.

The Big Three: Liquor, Wine, and Beer

1. Liquor: This is where you make your mark. The classics are a must:

• Vodka: The Switzerland of spirits—neutral and gets along with everyone. Grab at least 6 liters.
• Whiskey: Go for bourbon and scotch—3 liters each. Whether your guests are neat or on the rocks, this will hit the spot.
• Gin: For your martini and G&T lovers—3 liters.
• Rum: White for the mojito lovers and dark for those who think they’re pirates—2 liters each.
• Tequila: Because bad decisions make the best stories—3 liters.

Pro Tip: Don’t bother with the obscure stuff. If you’ve got a guest who only drinks some rare Scandinavian spirit, tell them BYOB, babe.

2. Wine: Even if you’re not a sommelier, you can still fake it.

• Red Wine: 20 bottles. Go for something full-bodied like a Cabernet Sauvignon.
• White Wine: 15 bottles. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will do nicely.
• Sparkling Wine: 10 bottles. Because nothing says “party” like bubbles.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget the corkscrew unless you want to see grown adults cry.

3. Beer: Keep it simple, keep it varied.

• Light Beer: 3 cases. Refreshing and easy-going.
• Craft Beer: 2 cases. For the hipster crowd who won’t drink anything with less than six ingredients and a story.
• Non-Alcoholic Beer: 1 case. Someone’s gotta drive, right?

Pro Tip: Have at least one beer people have actually heard of. No one wants to spend the night Googling “what the heck is this?”

Mixers, Garnishes, and Other Must-Haves

Mixers: No one’s doing shots all night (hopefully).

• Club Soda & Tonic Water: 10 liters each.
• Cola & Diet Cola: 10 liters each.
• Ginger Beer: 5 liters, because a Moscow Mule without ginger beer is just sad.
• Juices: 10 liters each of orange, cranberry, and pineapple.

Pro Tip: Don’t go crazy with mixers. Less is more, and your guests aren’t here to drink mocktails.

Garnishes:

• Lemons & Limes: 50 each. If you’re extra, go for some oranges too.
• Olives: A couple of jars for the martinis. Make sure they’re pitted unless you want to start a dental fund.
• Mint: A few bunches for mojitos and those who like to chew on leaves.

Pro Tip: Don’t stress over the fancy stuff. You’re not opening a speakeasy, you’re hosting a party. Keep it simple.

Ice: Yes, you need to say it out loud, because you WILL forget.

• Rule of Thumb: At least 50 pounds of ice. More if it’s hot out. No one likes warm drinks unless it’s mulled wine, and this isn’t Christmas.

Glassware and Accessories

Glasses: You’ll need:

• Wine Glasses: 50. If they don’t match, who cares? People are drinking, not judging a glassware competition.
• Highball Glasses: 50. For anything that needs ice and room to breathe.
• Champagne Flutes: 30. Because sipping bubbly from a red Solo cup is a crime.

Pro Tip: Skip the fancy crystal. It’s a party, not a wedding.

Accessories:

• Shaker: One or two. Bartenders can’t make magic without their wand.
• Strainer, Jigger, Bar Spoon: If you’re mixing cocktails, these are non-negotiable.
• Napkins: Because spills happen. And if you don’t have any, people will start using your sofa.

Don’t Forget the Non-Alcoholic Options

This isn’t just about being responsible—it’s about making sure the designated drivers aren’t glaring at you from across the room.

• Sparkling Water: 20 liters. Bubbles make even sobriety seem fun.
• Soft Drinks: 10 liters of assorted sodas. Throw in some tonic and juice too.

Pro Tip: Throw in a fancy mocktail for good measure. You’ll look considerate and trendy.

Final Thoughts

There you have it: your essential guide to stocking a bar for 100 people. Remember, it’s better to have too much than too little—no one ever complained about taking leftovers home. But whatever you do, make sure your bar is ready to keep the drinks flowing. After all, a well-stocked bar is the difference between a good party and a great one.

Now, go forth and host the event of the year—just don’t forget to invite us!