Party Planning

03/12/2010

When deciding to entertain, the best rule of thumb we can offer is to be prepared, which means planning in advance. NB Liquor has compiled a few pointers and things to consider when you're planning your next event.

You may need a permit - If you're holding a large event outside of your home, there is a chance that you may need either a Special Occasion Permit or a Special Event License. Check here for more information.

Wine Guideline:

Within the category of wine, consumption in New Brunswick breaks down as follows:

Sparkling = 6%
Fortified = 6%
Red = 46%
White = 39%
Rose = 3%

A standard serving of wine is 4 - 5 oz at 12 % alcohol by volume. The quantity of wine consumed is largely dependant on the occasion. The following is a guideline.

Lunch
1/3 of a bottle per person (2 glasses each)

Dinner
½ bottle per person (3 glasses each)

Wine & Cheese Party
½ bottle per person (3 glasses each).
More if it is an extended party.

Social Responsibility - hosting a party comes with responsibilities.

Absolutely no drinking & driving
If your guests are drinking, be sure you keep track of car keys. Have taxi phone numbers handy to help get your friends home safely. For an even more convenient option, have designated drivers who will not be consuming alcohol commit to driving people home.
Know when to say "No"
As the host/hostess, you need to know when a guest has had too much to drink, and you need to stop serving that person alcohol. They will be better served eating snacks and having non-alcohol drinks.
"Mocktails"
Every good party has lots of choices, and drinks are no exception. Have plenty of non-alcohol drink options available for your guests.

Food - what kind of food should you serve at your function? There are as many answers to that question as there are types of food! But there are a few guidelines ...

For a cocktail party, (or a non-meal party), serve 8 hors d'oeuvres per person per hour.
Variety is the spice of life! The more choices you have available, the more people will enjoy. Be sure to include different types of hors d'oeuvres, including vegetarian.
At a function where alcohol is being served, you should serve the food early in the course of the event to avoid people drinking on an empty stomach. It is also advisable to have food for snacking throughout the function.
More is less ... of a problem, that is! The more food you have at the ready, the less likely you are to run out. Keep some extras handy in case you need more munchies than you originally planned.