during the holidays People tend to entertain family and friends at home more than any other time of year.
Although it’s always nice to socialize. But organizing a menu can be daunting and expensive.
One way to control costs is to limit beverages.
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Fox News Digital asked hospitality experts for their tips, tricks and secrets. To keep spending under control while keeping the holiday spirit high.
Here’s what they shared.
Don’t let the stress of drinking get in the way of a fun, relaxing holiday party. (Istock)
1. Know that less is more.
Hosting a holiday party doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. And part of the fun is creating food and drink menus for your guests.
When talking about drinks The less, the more.
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“By keeping your beverage options simple and focusing on seasonal pairings, You can host a fun and memorable event without breaking the bank,” Peter Brattander, vice president of food and beverage at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City in New Jersey, told Fox Digital News.
“You want to keep things simple and focus on your guests rather than bartending all night.”
Limiting your beverage options will give you more time to focus on family and friends attending the event. (Istock)
2. Reduce your stress as a host
When planning drinks for entertaining at home It’s important to make an informed decision that works for everyone, Brattander said.
“Limiting your drinks to wine, beer and a few spirits is a thoughtful and practical approach to hosting a holiday gathering,” he said.
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“It focuses more on family, relationships and food, rather than turning it into a cocktail-centric party.”
“Simplifying the drink menu will reduce stress as a host. and being able to allocate your time and resources to create a warm atmosphere and delicious food.”
Keep things simple by pairing wines with different dishes or hors d’oeuvres. (Istock)
3. Create a specific drink list.
Plan your drink menu to pair with what you’re serving.
If you serve multiple courses, such as an appetizer, main course, and dessert You should serve dry wine first. The dry and sweet wines are then served last, Sharon Fenchak, head winemaker at Biltmore Winery in Asheville, North Carolina, told Fox News Digital.
She said simplifying choices for holiday gatherings is a good approach.
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“For gatherings during the holidays I say three kinds of wine: dry white wine, not-dry rosé. and a medium-bodied red. Two beers – one low-alcohol beer. and craft beer like India Pale Ale or lager. “Clear spirits (like gin or vodka) and brown spirits (like whiskey) will appeal to all audiences,” Fenchuck told Fox News Digital.
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Plus, signature cocktail sets can add a fun twist to your menu, Fenchak says.
“A pre-made batch of signature cocktails or mocktails is a great idea to make the event feel special. while keeping it simple at the same time,” Fenchak said.
4. Keep things simple.
The philosophy of choosing fewer cocktails is the strategy here.
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“I like the idea of keeping things simple but thoughtful. So start with one or two signature cocktails. Something light and refreshing like a margarita is always a good choice,” Olivia Pollock, Los Angeles-based hosting expert for Evite, told Fox Digital News.
Add some holiday flavor to your standard drinks by making special cocktails with seasonal flavors. (Istock)
One suggestion is a holiday margarita, such as a cranberry margarita.
Fresh, simple and colorful, it’s the perfect holiday cocktail, Pollock says.
Then, offer some basic spirits like vodka, whiskey, and rum, plus a simple mixer like tonic, soda, or juice.
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“I also keep a large ice bucket nearby. In case someone wants to make champagne over ice or add ice to their wine,” she continued.
“This way, guests can mix their own drinks. But you can never have too many options.”
Treating guests to a special after-dinner wine, such as a dessert wine, is the perfect way to cap off a festive evening. (Istock)
Brattander says offering a small refreshment or dessert wine after a meal can be a thoughtful finishing touch to make the evening feel complete.
5. Offer non-alcoholic options
In addition to alcoholic beverages Consider offering options to your guests, Brattander says.
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“Don’t forget about designated drivers or those who don’t drink. A delicious non-alcoholic punch or mocktail as a welcome drink can make them feel included and set a warm atmosphere for the evening,” Brattander told Fox News Digital.
Cider is also a festive addition to your holiday drinks.
Avoid the additional stress of vacation hosting by limiting the beverage options for your guests. (Istock)
Bonus: Save money on your party.
When it comes to buying drinks for a party, Pollock says a little planning can go a long way in keeping things budget-friendly.
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“Bulk purchases such as large bottles or cases of wine, beer and spirits. It can save you quite a bit. Especially for larger gatherings,” she said.
“Be sure to keep an eye out for sales and promotions as well. Many stores offer huge discounts. Especially during holidays or seasonal events.”
