Planning a Gathering: Drinks, Mixers & Alcohol-Free Options

Creating a Balanced Beverage Selection for Your Gathering

Planning a gathering involves more than choosing food.

Providing guests with different beverage choices can make an event more comfortable and inclusive.

For adult events where alcohol is being served, it is useful to plan both alcoholic and non-alcoholic choices.

Start With Your Guest List

Consider:

• Number of guests
• Length of the event
• Food being served
• Guests who do not drink
• Designated drivers
• Personal preferences

You don’t necessarily need a huge number of different products. A smaller, carefully planned selection can often work better.

Provide Non-Alcoholic Choices

Alcohol-free beverages should never be an afterthought.

Consider providing:

• Sparkling water
• Soda
• Juice
• Tonic water
• Ginger ale
• Alcohol-free beer
• Other non-alcoholic alternatives

Keep water readily available throughout the gathering as well.

Don’t Forget Mixers

Mixers can provide more options without requiring many different products.

Common options include soda water, tonic water, cola, ginger ale and fruit-based beverages.

Fresh citrus and other garnishes can also complement the beverage station.

Food Is Important

When alcohol is available at an adult gathering, provide food as well.

Simple options such as appetizers, pizza, sandwiches, cheese, vegetables and other substantial foods can be prepared ahead of time.

Make Transportation Part of the Plan

Hosts should consider transportation arrangements before the event begins.

Guests should never drive while impaired. Designated drivers, taxis, rideshare services and other safe transportation options should be considered when appropriate.

Shop Locally in Saskatoon

Avalon Liquor provides beer, wine, spirits, mixers, beverages and other selections for customers of legal purchasing age in Saskatoon.

Planning ahead and checking availability can make preparing for an event easier.

Serve responsibly and follow all applicable Saskatchewan liquor laws.