How much alcohol do I need for a party of 20?

For a party of 20 people lasting 3 hours, plan for roughly 2 drinks per person per hour. That's about 120 drinks total. A 750ml bottle yields about 16 drinks (spirits) or 5 glasses (wine). You'd need approximately 5-6 bottles of spirits, 2 cases of beer, and 4-5 bottles of wine as a starting point. Clackamas Liquor and More can help you plan the right quantities — call (503) 656-5186.

What are the best spirits to serve at a party?

The safest crowd-pleasers for a party are vodka, tequila, rum, and whiskey/bourbon. These cover the widest range of guest preferences and work in the most cocktails. Add a few mixers (soda water, juice, ginger beer) and you can make dozens of combinations. Visit Clackamas Liquor and More at 16142 SE 82nd Drive, Clackamas, OR for personalized party planning help.

Does Clackamas Liquor and More help with party planning?

Yes. Our staff at Clackamas Liquor and More in Clackamas, Oregon are happy to help you plan your party alcohol order. Come in or call (503) 656-5186 and we'll recommend quantities, crowd-pleaser picks, and mixer suggestions for any size event.

Can I get wholesale pricing for a large party order?

Clackamas Liquor and More offers wholesale accounts for bars and restaurants with free delivery 7 days a week. For large personal events, come in and speak with our staff — call (503) 656-5186 to discuss your needs.

Party Picks — How to Stock a Party | Clackamas Liquor and More

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What to Serve

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Signature Cocktail

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:

01

Party Punch

Vodka Base · Serves 20

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.

Common Questions

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.

Call Us — (503) 656-5186 Hours & Location →

📍16142 SE 82nd Drive, Clackamas, OR 97015

🕙Open until 10pm Thu–Sat · Oregon's latest open liquor store

Oregon's Latest Open Liquor Store · Est. 1978

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