How to Build the Perfect Bar Menu for Your Event
Creating your own bar menu can be one of the most fun parts of planning an event — but it can also be surprisingly tricky. You want a drink list that feels personal and fits your budget, but you also want to make sure your guests have options and your bartenders can work efficiently.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate party, or private event in New England, here’s how to design a DIY bar menu your guests will love (and your bartenders will thank you for).
1. Start with the Basics: Beer, Wine, and a Signature Cocktail
A full open bar sounds nice, but it’s rarely necessary. Instead, choose a few essentials: one red wine, one white, a popular beer or two, and one or two signature cocktails that reflect your event’s style.
Signature cocktails add personality and help limit the number of ingredients your bartenders need to manage. Think seasonal themes (like apple cider mules in the fall or lavender lemonade spritzers in the spring) or drinks that tie into your story as a couple or company.
2. Keep It Simple and Efficient
When it comes to mobile bartending, simpler is better. The more ingredients and glassware a drink requires, the slower your bar line moves. Choose recipes that use 3–5 ingredients and can be made quickly.
Your bartenders can help you streamline your menu so each drink looks and tastes great without slowing down service.
3. Choose Quality Over Quantity
You don’t need to offer every type of alcohol under the sun. A few good bottles go a long way. For example:
Vodka – versatile and crowd-friendly
Rum – great for warm-weather events
Whiskey or Bourbon – ideal for old fashioneds or simple whiskey sodas
Tequila – perfect for margarita-style cocktails
4. Don’t Forget Non-Alcoholic Options
Mocktails are becoming more popular than ever. Offering a few non-alcoholic cocktails makes everyone feel included and adds sophistication to your setup. Try cucumber lime spritzers, lemonade, or sparkling fruit punches that match your color palette.
At Ramblin’ Man, we create dry bar setups that can easily include both cocktail and mocktail options.
5. Work With Your Bartending Team
Even if you’re handling the alcohol purchase yourself, your bartending company can help you plan quantities and recipes. A good team will tell you exactly how much to buy based on your guest count and menu.
If you’re unsure where to start, check out our post on 5 Things to Know Before Hiring a Mobile Bartending Service in New England for a quick overview of what to expect when booking.
Final Thoughts
A well-planned bar menu doesn’t have to be complicated — it just needs to be thoughtful. Focus on a few quality choices, add a creative signature drink, and make sure your bartending team has what they need to keep service smooth and fun.
If you’re planning an event in Massachusetts or anywhere in New England, Ramblin’ Man Mobile Bartending can help you design the perfect DIY bar menu and provide professional dry bar service to match.