Stock the Party
Right
Whether it's 10 people or 100, we'll help you figure out exactly what to buy — what spirits, how many bottles, and what mixers to grab so you never run out and never over-buy.
How Much Do You Need?
A simple formula: plan for 1.5 drinks per person per hour. A 3-hour party of 20 guests = about 90 drinks. A 750ml bottle of spirits yields roughly 16 drinks. Wine gives you about 5 glasses. Beer: 1 can = 1 drink. When in doubt, buy a little extra — unopened bottles can always come back.
Intimate Party
2–3 bottles of spirits · 1 case of beer · 3–4 bottles of wine · Basic mixers (soda water, juice, ginger beer)
House Party
4–6 bottles of spirits · 2–3 cases of beer · 6–8 bottles of wine · Full mixer station · Ice — lots of it
Big Celebration
8+ bottles of spirits · 4+ cases of beer · 12+ bottles of wine · Consider a signature cocktail to simplify service
The Crowd-Pleaser Formula
Cover these four bases and you'll have something for everyone at your party. You don't need to stock an entire bar — just the right categories.
One Clear Spirit
Vodka or gin. Mixes with almost everything and pleases the most guests. Works in simple cocktails, mixed drinks, and shots. Your highest-volume spirit.
One Brown Spirit
Bourbon or whiskey. For the spirit drinkers, the Old Fashioned crowd, and the people who want something with a little more character.
Beer & Hard Seltzers
Always have beer. It's the safety net — guests who don't want cocktails will reach for it. Mix a few styles: light lager, IPA, and something local.
Something Bubbly
Sparkling wine or Champagne for toasts, arrivals, and the guests who don't drink spirits. A bottle or two goes a long way and elevates any party.
Don't Forget the Mixers
Soda water · Tonic water · Ginger beer · Cranberry juice · Orange juice · Simple syrup · Lime juice · Lemons and limes · Ice (more than you think you need) · Garnishes. Mixers make or break a party bar — we carry them all.
Make One Signature Drink
The easiest way to simplify your party bar is to pick one signature cocktail and make a big batch ahead of time. It reduces the number of bottles you need, keeps service simple, and gives the party a personality. Here's a foolproof crowd-pleaser:
Party Punch
- Vodka 750ml bottle
- Peach schnapps 375ml
- Cranberry juice 2 liters
- Orange juice 1 liter
- Lemon-lime soda 2 liters, add last
- Frozen fruit instead of ice
Combine vodka, schnapps, and juices in a large container and refrigerate ahead of time. Add soda and frozen fruit just before guests arrive. Easy, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable.
Party Planning FAQ
How much alcohol for a party of 20?
For 20 people over 3 hours, budget for about 90–120 drinks. That's roughly 5–6 bottles of spirits, 2 cases of beer, and 4–5 bottles of wine. Always buy a little extra — unopened bottles keep.
What spirits should I serve at a party?
Cover the main bases: one clear spirit (vodka or gin), one brown spirit (bourbon or whiskey), tequila if it fits the vibe, plus beer and something bubbly. That handles 95% of guests.
What's the easiest party cocktail to make in bulk?
A big-batch punch is your best friend. Mix vodka, juice, and soda in a large container ahead of time. Serves itself, keeps guests happy, and means you're not behind the bar all night.
Can the staff at Clackamas Liquor help me plan my order?
Absolutely. Come in or call (503) 656-5186 and tell us your guest count, party length, and budget. We'll help you build the right order so you're covered without overbuying. Located at 16142 SE 82nd Drive, Clackamas, OR 97015.
Come In and Let Us Plan It With You
Tell us your guest count and budget and we'll walk the floor with you. No party is too small or too large. We're open until 10pm Thursday through Saturday — the latest in Oregon.