Elevated Hosting: How to Set Up an Inclusive Bar

Creating an inclusive bar ensures that every guest, regardless of their preferences or dietary needs, feels welcomed with a drink they can enjoy. From alcohol-free spirits to allergy-conscious mixers, setting up an inclusive bar doesn’t need to be complicated – it just requires thoughtful planning. Here’s how to set up a bar that’s both festive and fully inclusive, ready for everyone to raise a glass this holiday season.

1. Stock a Range of Spirits and Alcohol-Free Alternatives

Offering a variety of spirits and alcohol-free options gives guests the freedom to customize their drinks to their taste. Start with a base selection of popular spirits like vodka, gin, rum, spiced rum, and rye whiskey. These are versatile options that can be mixed into a wide array of cocktails.

Next, consider adding alcohol-free alternatives. Brands now offer non-alcoholic versions of gin, whisky, and even rum, giving guests the ability to enjoy a mocktail with the depth of a cocktail. Having these options on hand, along with mixers, allows everyone to have a drink in hand, no matter their preference.

2. Label for Dietary and Allergen Needs

An inclusive bar isn’t just about alcohol preferences; it’s also about accommodating dietary and allergen needs. Gluten-free guests, for example, may avoid certain spirits, so look for gluten-free options when possible. Vodka and gin, especially when distilled from potatoes or corn, are often gluten-free, but check labels to be sure.

When it comes to mixers, read ingredient lists carefully and label those that are gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free, especially if you’re making large batches of cocktails. It may seem like a small gesture, but these thoughtful labels allow guests to feel secure and considered.

3. Provide Flavourful, Non-Alcoholic Options

High-quality mixers elevate cocktails. Stock a variety of mixers like tonic water, ginger beer, club soda, and fruit juices such as cranberry, orange, and pomegranate. Sparkling water with different fruit infusions also makes for a perfect low-calorie mixer.

While mixers are great alternatives for non-alcoholic guests, go the extra mile with ready-to-drink mocktails. For an elevated spirit-free option, serve our Birds & Bees Mocktails with garnishes such as sugared cranberries or a sprig of mint – festive and flavourful!

4. Create a Garnish Station for Personalization

A garnish station adds an extra layer of enjoyment, allowing guests to get creative with their drinks. Include fresh herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary for herbal accents, and set out citrus 

slices, such as lemon, lime, and orange, for brightness. Edible flowers, cinnamon sticks, and sugar rims add festive flair, allowing each guest to add their own finishing touches.

For an extra festive touch, prepare some sugared cranberries or rim your glasses with a sugar-cinnamon mixture. These garnishes enhance both the flavour and visual appeal of each drink, giving guests an interactive, personalized experience.

5. Offer Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Recipes

Include recipe cards for popular cocktails and mocktails to help guests create their drinks with ease. Some festive options include a classic gin and tonic with rosemary, a vodka cranberry spritzer, or a ginger mule with spiced rum or alcohol-free ginger syrup. Provide instructions for mixing non-alcoholic versions as well, so that every guest has a variety of recipes to choose from.

You can display these recipe cards on small stands near the bar or print them on festive paper to add to the holiday decor. Including mocktail versions alongside cocktails ensures everyone finds a drink they enjoy.

6. Add Fun, Inclusive Glassware and Accessories

Make sure to include a variety of glassware, including lowball glasses, highball glasses, and even a few non-glass options like copper mugs or metal tumblers. Offering festive glassware options allows guests to choose a style they feel comfortable with, and if children are present, they can enjoy mocktails in a playful cup of their own.

Accessorize the bar with festive napkins, stir sticks, and coasters. If you’d like to make things even more special, consider personalized or holiday-themed stir sticks and cocktail picks that add a touch of holiday cheer.

Setting up an inclusive bar is a thoughtful way to ensure that everyone feels celebrated and included, no matter their preferences or dietary restrictions. With a well-stocked selection of spirits, non-alcoholic options, quality mixers, and fun garnishes, you’ll be able to provide every guest with a drink they’ll enjoy, adding to the warmth and inclusivity of your holiday gathering.